I am headed on a 10 trip to Florence for this X-mas. We will be spending the whole 10 days in villas. In the past trips to Europe I've carried a Patagonia duffle/backpack that I could carry on. But for winter travel I will obviously have more bulky and warmer clothing. Should I purchase wheeled duffles that need to be checked? I was looking at one that was 4100 cu. ft., and one that was 6200 cu. ft. I hate the idea of checking my luggage but don't see anyway around it. Any advice?
Posted by
Bloomington, IL, USA
9369 posts
Since you are spending the whole trip in one location, you should easily be able to do laundry (or at least wash things out in your room). And if you layer your clothing, outer layers like sweatshirts wouldn't have to be laundered necessarily. With careful planning you could still be able to carry on.
Posted by
Lakewood, Colorado
19233 posts
I went to Germany from Christmas through the first week in January 2001-2, and I had no problem staying within the regulation size (ETBD bag) and weight (8kg on Lufthansa) for carry on. Not only did I have to carry some warmer clothes, but I had a sportjacket and dress shoes for the pension's "Sylvester" (New Year's) party.
Being an experienced skier, I know how to dress in layers, and it only took one additional layer to be warm. I took a down parka, which I wore, not packed, and a pullover sweater to wear under the parka when it was really cold. I was fine with very little extra volume or weight.
Posted by
Newport Beach, CA, USA
769 posts
Same size should be good - just wear the heavier jacket/clothes on the plane (and maybe stuff one in your "personal item" daypack that wont count as a carry-on!)
Also - layers is best - if you dont alreayd have some get some lightweight merino wool base layers from Icebreaker or Patagonia etc. The synthetics are good but can smell - while the wool/silk will last longer without washing! (just air-out). They are not cheep - but you only need 1-2 pairs. Also - there are lots of sales right now on outdoor gear! If you need to dress up - bring a sports coat on the plane (or get one of those non-wrinkel travel-ones that can wad up and stuff in a pack and come out looking nice!)