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What are the luggage size regulations for airplanes?
Generally speaking, each passenger is allowed two pieces of Checked luggage weighing up to 50 pounds (23 kg) each and no larger than 62 inches (158 cm). To determine the size of the bag, add the length + width + height. For Carry on luggage, each passenger is allowed one standard article (eg.roller bag) 9" (23 cm) x 15.5" (40 cm) x 21.5 " (55 cm) and weighing no more than 22 pounds (10 kg) plus one personal item (eg. laptop) 6" (16 cm) x 13" (33 cm) x 17" ( 43 cm) and weighing no more than 22 pounds (10 kg).
This is a generalization and it is wise to check with your airline as some destinations or aircraft size will have different restrictions on the amount or type of luggage you can take along.
With a small bag, how do I pack fewer items?
The first step is to take clothing that is made of fabrics that can wash easily and dry quickly. While blue jeans are durable, they take forever to dry if you don't have a clothes dryer. Perhaps a light-weight cargo pant is a better solution as most have zip off legs that turn the pant into shorts. As for Tshirts, they too require long drying times so find tops or shirts that are light-weight and can be washed at night in a sink and hung to dry. The same goes for undergarments. If you visit any travel, camping or sports store you can find items that meet this criteria.
Next you want to limit the amount of garments you take. The big key here is to take clothing that can be mixed and matched. Choose two or three colors that work together and keep all clothing in this color range. This way you can coordinate outfits and keep the number of actual garments down. You could go with as few as five garments: one pant, three tops and a jacket. Your destination will determine too what you should take. Obviously, a colder climate will require different clothes than a warmer one.
What do I wash them with if I don't have laundry detergent?
If you're staying in a hotel, use the shampoo you find in the bathroom to launder your items. It does a good job and leaves a fresh scent on the clothing. It would be wise to take along a laundry stick as it can remove a stain without having to launder the entire garment.
What about foot wear?
This too will depend on your destination but two pairs of shoes is advisable. If you get a blister from one pair, you can switch to the other while your blister heals. Preferably, your shoes are worn-in before you leave. Don't go with new shoes...you'll be asking for blisters. And don't forget a small first aid kit with some bandaids.
How about my toiletries?
You need to downsize these. Purchase small containers to fill with your products from home. Just remember that if you are taking your bag inside the aircraft cabin, you will need to meet their allowable liquids standards.
What are these standards?
You will need to place all containers with liquids, gels, lipstick, toothpaste, etc in a plastic bag provided at the airport security. One bag is allowed for each passenger so you will need to decide what it is you really need to take along. Each container must not hold more than 100 ml and you can put as many of these containers in the plastic bag until it is full and can be zip closed. The bag is not large so you are limited in how much you can take. Also be aware of taking any steel-pointed items such as scissors or a nail file, as these will be confiscated at security. You can generally choose to mail them home but be prepared from the start.
Can I take my hairdryer, curling iron?
Downsize these to travel appliances and don't forget a converter and adaptor if you're travelling abroad. Check the country you're visiting for elecrical standards.
Do you have a solution for packing all these items?
Zip lock plastic bags are your best friend. Not only can you categorize your items, you can keep them organized. Put under garments in one bag, make-up in another, etc. Heaven forbid you accidently spill the contents of you bag but at least everything will be contained for easy pick-up. There'll be no embarrassing moments with personal items rolling into everyone's view.
How should I pack the bag?
You want to space out the heavier items so they're not all in one area. The weight is spread across the bag and will make it easier to lift it into an airline overhead. Also put the items you use most on the top since they'll be more accessible if you need to enter your bag.
Should I put valuables in checked luggage?
A big NO! Always carry your valuables with you as bags can be searched. This also goes for medications. Checked luggage can get lost (another reason to carry it yourself). You must be prepared just in case the luggage is lost. If you are checking a case, make sure you have a carry-on with the essentials for a day of inconvenience.
Should I lock my checked luggage?
That is entirely up to you. Just be aware that security will cut off your lock if they need to get into your bag. I generally don't lock my case as there really is nothing of value in it. Thieves are looking for valuables. Leave your jewelry at home ladies! Security will put a letter in your case if it has been searched.
