Saturday morning, my husband and I will leave for San Antonio. I'll be participating in NECC 2008 (the National Educational Computing Conference); Tim will be visiting art museums and checking out the "Cold Margaritas and Hot Senoritas" (Hmmm).I've already mentioned in Twitter that we'll only be taking carry-on luggage: a duffel bag for hubby, and a backpack, with laptop compartment, and a small handbag for me. After a few less than successful incidents with airline baggage handling, we're convinced that traveling light is the only way to reach your destination with wardrobe intact.
If you would like to follow our example, you might want to visit One Bag for tips on how to avoid overpacking.
A challenge faced by vacationers hoping to travel light is the restriction on the type and size of liquids and gels that are permitted in carry-ons. The Department of Homeland Security's TSA gives updates on the current regulations on its site. Remember 3-1-1...no more than 3 ounces per container packed in a 1 quart ziploc bag with 1 bag permitted per traveler.
The size of the carry-on is also important. Rules vary by airline, but a general rule of thumb given by the FAA is "the maximum size carry-on bag for most airlines is 45 linear inches (the total of the height, width, and depth of the bag). Anything larger should be checked."
A final tip to make your trip less stressful: go to Expedia and read the guide to whichever airports you connect through. There you will find information about food, shops, activities, even smoking areas. Rather than settle for the limited (or non-existent) food choices on an airplane, purchase a sandwich or regional specialty to munch on. Oh, and be sure to include some extra ziploc bags to contain leftovers - you don't want any drips or leaks to stain your pared-down wardrobe! [I usually tuck in a Tide pen, just in case]
I love to travel and am very excited about exploring San Antonio for the first time. I'm bringing along a small tote bag to contain any tiny treasures we find there. Anything larger can be shipped home.
No checked luggage for this couple - we want to get there and go, not wait at a carousel for cases that have taken an unexpected left at Albuquerque !
This entry is cross-posted on This Mommy Gig.
"Suitcases" by masochismtango
4 comments:
Especially since I've heard that many airlines are moving towards charging you for each checked bag, regardless of weight!
Have a great, safe trip and good luck at the conference :)
Have fun - I'll probably take some of your advice. Maybe I'll see you at NECC.
Seriously, how are you going to have time to shop with everything going on at NECC? I'm wondering if there's going to be time to sleep? :)
All,
NECC was fabulous, I did more walking, eating & drinking than shopping.
Managed to connect with many colleagues & friends...and lose 3 pounds!
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