Just had to post this miraculous event, mostly to give myself a pat on the back! After posting questions and scouring this website I decided to go purchase a second suitcase in the 21" size and see if I could fit my stuff in it. I was successful and so much happier. The first bag, which I will return, was a 25", and after loading it up it was far too heavy and I was stressing out. I am not nearly as stressed out about how "few" clothes I have. I also have room to spare. This is for a 3 week trip to Murren, Cinque Terre, & Paris. We leave in one week. Just wanted everyone to know it can be done, OH and I packed two pair of shoes. So happy.....
Posted by
Charlestown, PA, USA
193 posts
It's much easier when you figure out what you WANT to pack vs. what you NEED to pack. Congratulations on figuring it out before you you left, most aren't so lucky.
Say "Hello" to Alan and Veronica at the Eiger Guesthouse for me in Murren.
And have a great trip.
Reg
Posted by
Carrollton, Georgia, USA
242 posts
Linda and others have inspired me to try for a 21 " er as well on my trip to Rothenburg in late November. I have gotten some great ideas and have decided that on the train the 28" suitcase just isn't gonna cut it with me having rheumatoid and trying to lift that thing upon the rack.
1st great idea: ONE pair of jeans, 2 pairs of light weight khakis, and some silk longjohns.
2nd: Wash those clothes!
:)
Thanks
B~
Posted by
OP
Forney, TX, United States
43 posts
Thanks! Will do! That is where we will be staying! Very excited about our trip and our new packing phenomenon!
Posted by
Elk Grove, CA, USA
6898 posts
Linda, you did good. My wife did the same and her bag actually weighed less than mine. Just wait until you see how much easier it is to get on and off the trains (the 3-4 stairs are high up, steep and narrow). You'll also be pleased when you swing the bag up to the overhead luggage racks and back down as well. Being light really helps. On our recent 3-week trip, we did laundry in Florence and La Spezia. Worked out great.
Posted by
Sacramento, California U.S.A.
10229 posts
Yes, it can be done! My husband and I both took 21" cases for a 3 1/2 week trip. My sister and her husband both took much larger bags and it was a real pain for them. Of course it was summer, so clothes are lighter weight. I hope I can do it again next winter... :) Have a great trip!
Posted by
Wilmington, DE, USA
712 posts
I did it in Sept for Italy. Reading on this site inspired me. My husband was shocked how little I took and when they weighed my bag at the airport it was lighter then his. It can be done. A friend went to Italy in June and took 2 roll on bags and 8 pair of shoes. When she came home she took a picture of all the clothes she never wore to remind her not to overpack next time.
Posted by
Florida, USA
12172 posts
Great job Linda!
Make sure all of your clothes and shoes mix and match. If so, you can get quite a few different outfits from a small number of tops and bottoms.
The mistake many make is thinking, "I'm going for 12 days so I need 12 outfits, 12 sets of socks and underwear, plus different shoes to go with each outfit and matching outerwear/accesories. I also better pack a bunch of shorts, swim suits, etc." That approach results in lugging around a steamer trunk, which is only okay if someone else is carrying it for you.
Posted by
Napa, CA
3580 posts
Yes, it gets boring to keep rotating the same clothes. Yes, handwashing is a nuisance. But the payoff of easier travel is worth it. When I get home I retire my travel clothes until the next trip and enjoy all the choices of my home wardrobe. I've traveled from 6 days to 6 weeks with the same wardrobe. If necessary for reasons of warmth, I will buy one or two articles of clothing or a scarf on my trip, but I take enough that I can layer clothes to cover fall or spring temperatures. I wear the bulkier things on the plane over.