by Tiriahna

Created on: December 25, 2008

Packing is one of the hardest parts of travel, especially when travelling during the holidays. There is nothing worse than getting across the country only to find out you've forgotten your winter coat or you have absolutely no underwear. These days, especially, with airlines charging per bag and gas being expensive (if not as bad as it has been), packing light is important as well. I'll give you examples of how to pack using only one bag. If you are travelling by air this year, or anytime in the near future, packing light is especially important. You'll want to use one bag per person, or less, if possible. Obviously ages and health issues help to determine that, but lets give it a shot.

1. The Carry On- This is your most important bag. Remember, your entrusting your luggage with strangers who, at the end of the day, just want to go home to be with their own families. Your family's luggage may not be their top priority. You should always include a spare set of clothing. This means a shirt, clean set of underwear, and socks. If necessary, you can always wear the pants or skirt you currently have on. (This is something you should keep in mind when dressing for the plane ride. In high altitudes the plane will be getting cold. I always recommend wearing pants for this reason. Also, in a pinch, a good set of jeans or slacks works better than a skirt or shorts for next day wear.) You should also include your toiletry set, but be aware of guidleines when it comes to liquids and gels. The best thing to do when flying is go out and buy the little one dollar travel size (or sample size) of shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and soap. You can also get small travel toothbrushes with a cover in many grocery stores. Also, ladies, don't forget your pads or tampons. Even if you currently have no need for them currently, leave it to our dear friend Murphy to ruin that for you. And remember, you don't need a fancy carrying case. A zip lock freezer bag or two will work just fine.

Here's a tip to save space. Lay your shirt out flat. Place your underclothes on top of the shirt. Place the travel kit on top of the underclothes and shirt. Begin folding by placing the arms of your shirt on top of the pile. Now, carefully, roll your pile tightly. Not only will this free up more room in your carry on for books and gum (which is good for helping your ears to pop and preventing pain.) but it also helps to protect your liquids and gels.

2. The Check-In Bag- This bag will change depending on how long your stay is. For a weeks worth of clothing, you'll want to bring at least three shirts, two pairs of pants or skirts, enough underclothes and socks for each day your there plus two, Two garbage bags (one for dirty clothes and one for wet clothes) are always handy to keep in your luggage. Don't forget to pack extras of everything in your toiletry bag. And, for travelling during holidays, be sure to pack presents in your clothing to protect them.

These two bags are just the basics. If you follow these rules, your packing should be a lot less stressful then your christmas shopping this year. Good Luck!

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