Rick Steves Packing Checklist Question

That's a fine question. Rick would certainly only bring maximum 2 pairs of shoes, including the ones you're wearing, but some of us girls may splurge for a total of 3. When Rick says 2 pairs of pants and/or shorts, I think it's reasonable to include the pair you're wearing as number 3. In my case, I would often have 2 pants and 1 short or 1 skirt. Keep them light - jeans are too hot in summer and heavy to carry.

Almost all packing lists include the clothes you are wearing as part of the total package. I only take 2 pairs of pants total, and rarely take more than 2 pairs of shoes (one dressy and comfortable, one for extensive walking). If you take a 3rd pair of shoes it should be ultra-light and packable.

The clothes I wear on the plane are part of my total packing list items. Two pairs of shoes on the list means one pair in the suitcase and the other on my feet.

That is a good question. I looked at the list and also thought about what I take....so my answer.....it depends. For example Rick says 2 pairs of pants/shorts. I wear one and pack two (I supposed ever since I had a zipper break while traveling.) On the other hand, I wear one shirt and pack 4 more. If you were wearing a light jacket, you certainly wouldn't have to pack another one. I would take the RS list as a guide.

Do it however you want to - as long as you know what it means. Just don't forget what you did, pack the clothes you were supposed to wear, and get on the plane naked.

I have a list as word document that I have used for 14 years. After each trip I look at the list and add anything I would have liked to have had and take off anything I didn't use. The list has a number of separate categories; one is what I pack, one is what I wear (including what is in my pockets). I also have a category for what is in my second carryon, (personal item).

Once I've set on the luggage I am taking and I'm sure it will fit, I will use judgment based on destination, and if there is any extra room, add more underwear and socks, until maxed out.

My list is to wear one, pack two changes of clothing. I tried two pairs of pants once but like, Ray, had a pair damaged beyond use and did not want to continue with only one pair. It was a real hassle finding a decent replace pair so now I am back to packing two pair. And, of course, have not had any other problems with damage.

Like Frank: pretty amazing, but after that one time when the pair broke beyond repair and after that I made sure I carried two with me.... never happened again!

Like Lee, I keep a packing list from trip to trip. I use an excel spreadsheet, which I find easier to edit and revise. There are separate columns for "wearing", "carry-on" and "checked." I also have a "before I leave" checklist on a word doc, so I don't forget those last-minute things. It reduces the pre-flight stress.

I wonder if Rick really follows all that he says about packing? Especially when he's gone for several months?

If you look at the TV shows, Rick DOES seem to be wearing the same shirts and pants. Probably checks the massive amounts of gear needed to film the shows, but the average travelers don't carry that. (And he may not still wash clothes in the sink every night -- laundry drop off is also recommended in his books -- but in a pinch he could. )

I don't see him suffering by washing clothes and picnic meals when he has a lot of money, and probably gets tons of freebies for recommending places.