The enabler is back--new Costco find!

Someday you're going to have to tell us how many bags and how many coats you own 😋

I'm taking a lightweight puffer coat ("water resistant") to London...3 week to go for me!

And the BC Clothing Men’s Convertible Pant is back in stock. This style of pants may be out of favor/ style right now but my husband loves his. He loves the multiple pockets.

I am laughing so hard because I read the thread title and guessed you before I saw your name;) Not that that's bad!!! I love getting tips:)

I will see if they have it online to check out. Maybe covid is good for me as I am stuck at home and can't go to Costco;)

As soon as I saw the title, I thought “What’s Mardee marketing to us today?” LOL! You really should change your travel forum name to “Mardee, the Enabler”!

It’s so nice to find some great travel items for low cost! I have two of my 32 degree long sleeve micro-thin tops drying in our Cadiz apartment right now. I brought a black & a plum that have been perfect to layer together, throw on a necklace & go!

Someday you're going to have to tell us how many bags and how many coats you own

Mary, that secret goes with me to the grave! Wow, 3 weeks! I'm still a little over a month away, and getting more excited by the minute. Hope you have a great trip!

Mary, that convertible pair of pants looks nice. I might have to check that out for my son-in-law. Thanks!

mikliz97, yes, sadly I think my reputation is preceding me. So sorry about your Covid! I am trying to be so careful. I just found out I was exposed to it on Friday at the school I am subbing at, but so far I feel pretty good (knock on wood)! And it is online for only $1 more (see link above).

Jean, ha ha! I hope you are enjoying Spain! It certainly sounds like it! And I love black and plum together--that sounds really nice!

Mikliz97, did you bring Covid back from Europe ? Either way, so sorry you're sick. Wishing you a quick recovery. My husband and I both got Covid last May after returning from Italy.

Mardee, thanks as always, you are the Renaissance travel woman, as you have travel tips ranging across many topics.
Safe travels!

Most of my travel and athletic clothing is from Costco.

I also have those BC convertible pants, but now use a couple versions of tech pants. The tech pants look like regular pants with normal pockets and one or two hidden zipper pockets, are slimmer cut and made of an easy to wash and dry material.

I particularly like the different types of shirts, socks and underwear sold at Costco.

Mardee--I am with you, the number of coats I have is a secret!

Pat--Yes, I brought this unwanted souvenir home with me from Amsterdam;( It just feels like a cold, so I am thankful for that!

Mardee!! Well, of course you found something on your last foray into Costco, lol! Did you go during the Super Bowl, haha? Hopefully it was empty.

That looks like a nice jacket so I'll wait for a report on it. I need a new waterproof layer this year. Mine is about 10 years old and completely worn out...even with re-waterproofing it water doesn't bead on the surface except for a short amount of time. Can you wear a puffy vest under your new jacket? That is important to me.

And not telling how many jackets I have either although, truth be told, when you live in a colder climate you need outerwear for a variety of occasions! Rain and 40 like today? Got that covered. Snow and 25? Got it. Windy and 50? Got it, hahaha!!

Some people collect shoes. Others collect coats and luggage……..

Pam--We have specific coats for winter in Iceland even, lol! We have never needed them here at home, but worth every penny for there in the winter;)

"Pam--We have specific coats for winter in Iceland even, lol! We have never needed them here at home, but worth every penny for there in the winter;)"

The sign of a frequent traveler, lolol! I have a rain jacket just for Italy - way too lightweight for here or anywhere in Northern Europe! And yes, planning for a return to Orkney and Shetland in 2025 I'm going to get a waterproof ball cap which I will NEVER wear here at home but will be invaluable there. We'll probably have sun the whole time, hahaha!!

I've had my eye on those 32 Degree Rain Jackets -- even tried one on to make sure I know which size is right. We don't technically need them, but if they ever go even the tiniest bit on sale I'm going to buy a couple for when we travel to someplace where rain is a possibility, but not predicted. If it is going to be really rainy, I prefer longer coverage.

Pat, you're welcome! And thank you for calling me a Renaissance woman, instead of an obsessive one. 😊

funpig, you're a person after my own heart. I can't tell you how much Costco clothing is in my drawers.

mikliz97, I'm glad your symptoms aren't too bad. I'm trying to avoid catching it before my trip next month. Although I just looked it up and evidently I can get another booster since my last one was in September, so I think I'll schedule that. I also still need to get the RSV vax.

Pam, I went about an hour before the Super Bowl -- I figured most people would be done shopping and I was right. Not empty but close to it. And once I lose 5 pounds, I can fit a puffy vest under it! That is so true about needing outerwear! I used to laugh at my daughter and SIL because of all they coats they had, but now that I'm living up here, I get it.

Carol, ha ha, so true! I must admit my obsession with bags is much more dangerous than outerwear. It's getting so I can't even open a packing thread, because I click on every link and have to force myself to move away (sigh).

I have to admit, I bought a new bag on this trip. I forgot to stuff an extra bag inside my suitcase and we bought a lot of stuff, so we had to go to TKMaxx and buy a small roller bag. As if we don't have enough here already! Even my husband gave me the look when he saw it. Let's just say that gouda and chocolate take up a lot of room, quickly;)

We don't technically need them...

milgreen, that is never a requirement for shopping! 🤣

mikliz97, that made me laugh! I did that same exact thing last year in Scotland. I'd forgotten all about it till you mentioned TKMaxx. Edinburgh was my last stop and I had all these souvenirs for my grandkids and no extra bag. I found a TKMaxx near the city center and bought a duffle bag with big lemons on it for £7 that is now in the possession of my 10 year old granddaughter. It worked, although having all those bags is what made me spring for a taxi from my hotel to Waverly Station. Never again!

Mardee—this will make you feel better. I had to buy a hard sided case as I bought fragile chocolate Easter eggs in Iceland. Otherwise a duffel or something would have sufficed. These eggs are huge and I bought several, but hey they are intact!

https://www.sierra.com/viev-long-gore-tex-primaloft-hooded-jacket-waterproof-insulated~p~2nhfr/?filterString=s~gore-tex%2F

Sierra Trading Post is my weakness. This site has the many of the same brands as REI , but they usually are last season's. The above is a close-out on a gore-Tex longer-length rain/ insulated jacket. My husband likes me in bright colors because he can find me when I wander off. I'm very happy with it.

Anyhow, no one is counting our jackets, suitcases, or in my case.....shoes! 😉

Seriously, there are worst things to acquire in abundance!!!

mikliz97, ha, yes that does make me feel better. And hungry--I am now salivating over Icelandic chocolate eggs!

Pat, I love Sierra Trading Post! I've ordered from them online and it's one of the first places I hit when I make my periodic visit to the Twin Cities. Such good stuff there and such good prices!

Anyhow, no one is counting our jackets, suitcases, or in my case.....shoes!

🤣🤣🤣 I think that is a very good thing!

Seriously, there are worst things to acquire in abundance!!!

Dorie, most definitely!!!

I bought one of those Costco rain jackets for my daughter for our UK trip later this year when I saw only this specific jacket marked down to $4.95. Luckily the size and color were fine. You can score some great deals if you have access to a warehouse.

Andrea, that is so true! I've found lots of stuff for clearance prices there. I just bought a pair of comfy joggers a few weeks ago for $2.97, and I love them.

I got a 32Degree puffer jacket for under $10 a few months ago. You just have to be at the right place at the right time. Easy, right? ;-)

Here’s a “need a bag” story….

Our Choir had a trip to NYC a few years ago.
Three of us went shopping in some thrift stores there, and my friend asked the quite elderly lady serving if she could look closer at a bag on a shelf.
After looking, my friend handed it back and said she didn’t really need any more bags.
The lady serving raised her eyebrows way up high and in a very strong NY accent said to my friend:
“Daaahling!! it’s not about need!!”

Keep on giving us jacket and bag tips……one day we might “need” more of them!

Andrea, I have that same puffer jacket! In fact, I think you were the one who told me about it. I'm taking mine to England with me.

S J, ha ha, that's right! It's never about the immediate need - we're just prepared for the future!

SJ--Best story ever!!!

So it's like for those of us who sew [or used to sew], "Whoever dies with the most fabric wins!"???

Posted by Mary:
Someday you're going to have to tell us how many bags and how many coats you own

Posted by Mardee OP:
Mary, that secret goes with me to the grave!

Posted by mikliz97:
Mardee--I am with you, the number of coats I have is a secret!

Posted by Pam:
And not telling how many jackets I have either . . .

Posted by Carol now retired:
Some people collect shoes. Others collect coats and luggage……..

Posted by Mardee OP:
funpig, you're a person after my own heart. I can't tell you how much Costco clothing is in my drawers.

Posted by Pat:
Anyhow, no one is counting our jackets, suitcases, or in my case.....shoes!

Posted by doric8:
Seriously, there are worst things to acquire in abundance!!!

Posted by S J:
Here’s a “need a bag” story….

khansen—shhh! Granted, my business is sewing so I can justify it, but still. Bookshelves upon bookshelves of fabric😁

Oh, so now we're comparing fabric stashes! That I don't mind sharing, lol! Shelves and shelves and bins and bins. I keep saying I'm going to sew everything in my stash first, but somehow it never happens (sigh).

Mardee--It is like shiny object, shiny object, must buy;) Spoonflower is like crack cocaine.

Let's not leave out the knitters and crocheters. Lots and lots of yarn projects that somehow never got started!

This whole board is like an enabler to me, but I'm being pretty good on the new bag front.

Who knew how many different style suitcases, tote bags, personal bags, waist packs, sling packs, travel bottles, pouches, organizers, . . . .????!!!

And so many pretty colors!

Who knew how many different style suitcases, tote bags, personal bags, waist packs, sling packs, travel bottles, pouches, organizers, . . . .????!!!

So why is it that when one is waiting at the bag carousel it seems like 90% of the bags look just like yours?

Mardee, thank you for shopping Costco. I really appreciated the special stock dividend ($15 per share) they paid in January. Keep up the good work!

So why is it that when one is waiting at the bag carousel it seems
like 90% of the bags look just like yours?

Probably because most are black.

But on my last trip I had a purple bag that apparently got left out in the rain. When it came around the carousel I didn't recognize the purple bag because it was soaked and very dark, but I did recognize the neon purple tag and hot pink ribbon on the handle.

So non-black bag plus brightly colored tag plus brightly colored band/ribbon/tape around the handle.

And do the Air-tags beep at you in baggage claim to let you know, "Hey! I'm right here!!!"??

Another idea for minimalist packers who check luggage is to use bags targeted to children. Disney princesses, comic book characters, etc.

Just random thoughts.

Yep, I've got the Ravenna in Plum which SHOULD stand out, but what saves me is the nasty safety orange luggage tag free from Edward Jones because there were a couple of smallish purple or maroon bags in the mix.... sigh

Another random reminder that bags that are just mocking you when you open the closet can be donated for foster care kids so they never have to use garbage bags for their belongings. In a thinly populated County the sheriff department can put you in touch with the social worker for those families (in my part of Iowa, one worker covers 4 counties)

I use luggage tags and have had a couple go missing. So, to add to the above posts, adding a bright colored zipper pull, bright colored cordage or ribbon to handle, or reflective tape from an auto parts store or hardware store can really help at the baggage carousel.

I believe the saying is the person who dies with the most fabric wins. While I have a sizable stash I have a friend who may go out a winner. 😆

Does this jacket roll up nice and small for packing?

Doric8, yes! And add a stuffed animal inside the suitcase, if possible.

khansen--I have bought so much yarn in Iceland, but am the worlds slowest knitter! I have forced myself to not buy anymore on our last few trips there. You reminded me though, and I will put my knitting basket next to my bed when I get my knee done soon. It will give me something to do.

My husband tends to go with gray or black luggage, with no unique identifiers. I use the green Rick Steve's bag with a unique identifier. I rarely check a bag, but when I do it is nice to be able to spot it a ways away. Even just carrying it on the plane, it is nice to be able to spot in the overhead bin as sometimes you forget exactly which spot you you it in. Or if someone offers to get it down for you, you can easily explain which bag.

I have so many suitcases, but all are colorful. I like the bright red one the kids gave me last year, and then I kept my mom's navy blue with bright polka dots roller that is very easy to spot. I even still have two 19" green rollers that I bought in the mid 90's for $10 each for the kids, lol. They are great for overnight trips, and have held up amazing!

Does this jacket roll up nice and small for packing?

Joann, yes, it does. It only weighs 11 ounces, and actually comes in a small box. You could roll it up or pack it as a square, and either way it won’t take up much room.

Great, thank you!

Posted by doric8 Another random reminder that bags that are just
mocking you when you open the closet can be donated for foster care
kids so they never have to use garbage bags for their belongings.

This is a great idea!

My church does collections for a children's home pretty regularly. One year the request was for a laundry basket and a set of bath towels. The kids arrive with nothing much, so having something that is new and just for them is helpful.

Posted by Sun-Baked in Florida

I use luggage tags and have had a
couple go missing. So, to add to the above posts, adding a bright
colored zipper pull, bright colored cordage or ribbon to handle, or
reflective tape from an auto parts store or hardware store can really
help at the baggage carousel.

I saw a packing video where the person decorated her light-colored soft-sided suitcase using colorful permanent markers. Her initials, flowers, etc. on all sides.

Might make it hard to re-sell or donate, but works for her.

I saw a packing video where the person decorated her light-colored soft-sided suitcase using colorful permanent markers. Her initials, flowers, etc. on all sides.

Sun-Baked, I love that idea! I might have to try that. I have a ton of permanent and alcohol-based markers, and that would be so much fun to do!

Mardee,
You must be tired. Let’s give credit to Khansen.
My philosophy about luggage is the more tattered it gets - the less likely it will get stolen or accidentally taken. (I think black TUMI would be high on the theft list.)
Also, old/cheap cases mean less concerns. If a handle gets ripped - it’s just, “Oh Well.” As long as the contents are intact and the case can still function, I don’t care.

I expect luggage damage and consider it part of the “cost” of traveling. I don’t get mad at any company about it. Luggage mishaps happen. I consider myself privileged any time I can take a pleasure trip. I am grateful.

Mardee, I love this thread! Great ideas from all. I collect fabric too. Working on stitching my travel tray design.

I’m delighted with my REI jacket which I got on sale, but not as good a deal as Costco. But it’s testing well on our hikes and walks around town. Also packs small.

My favorite jeans are from Costco, both pairs cost under $20 each.

Khansen, mea culpa, mea culpa! So sorry! I was posting on the run and didn’t check the source! It really is a great idea and I think I might try it. Thank you!

Doric8, I also love that idea about donating luggage to shelters of abuse victims and adding other things to it.

Pastelholic, I can’t wait to see your travel tray when it’s done. I hope you’ll take a photo of it!

Yep, we all knew it was Mardee!

I found a pair of very comfortable flare yoga pants last Costco trip. I'm about to test the air-drying time. I like the profile better than my very comfortable leggings which I wore en route last time (but didn't want to wear out and about much). Still need to decide 'jeans or no jeans' for May trip.

Costco wasn't on my to do list this weekend, but I may have to check out the latest garment stacks...

Your talk of fabric just reminded me of the huge collection of bolts I picked up last year when our Joann's had a moving sale..I think they were 90% off when I happened to stop by. Haven't sewn for years but figured I'd have so much time in retirment...LOL I spend too much time down the forum rabbit hole!

Now I want to go look for this raincoat at Costco! I just got a new Grundens raincoat and I am wondering if it’s too nice to take on my trip because I wouldn’t want to lose it.
I am doing the South of Italy tour at the end of April so I might need a raincoat but probably not an Alaska fishing trip quality one.

I have this rain jacket! I cannot remember when I got it - 2-3 years ago - and I find myself reaching for it more often than the other, heavier, thicker one I have. I bought it in size Medium, while the rest of my clothes are usually in size small. It feels good on, not too big or bulky. Last November I took it to London. I wore it over my CirrusLite and over my small day backpack, and I was cozy and dry while I explored the Covent Garden/Seven Dials neighborhood (I must have looked a sight though!!). I love that it is light and comfortable, especially the hood as Mardee mentioned. It even fits in my purse.

Ok, I'm jumping from donating luggage to foster kids or people impacted by domestic violence to another of my FAVORITE altruistic thoughts: I drink a lot of coffee. Years ago when my dad had a tumor removed and was in ICU for days I spent a lot of time in front of a 4 pot Bunn coffee maker in the family Icu waiting longe that had a memorial plaque on it. So now I tell my loved ones (and it's in my funeral file) in lieu of flowers please take a pound of coffee (or tea bags) to some place where good people are doing good work late at night either as volunteers or woefully under paid; domestic violence shelters, soup kitchens, or CNAs at care facilities and tell them they are appreciated for what they do. If my friends really did this, it would be a lot of 10 dollar donations all over the country!!

CanAmCherie, those yoga pants sound nice, especially with the flare! And I vote for no jeans, but that's me. Just can't take the weight.

Caryn, that was my dilemma I have a raincoat but don't want to bring it (well, mostly because it's heavy, lol)! 😂

MapLady, that is very good to know! I'm so glad it worked for you travel-wise! I'll be trying mine out soon!

doric8, that's such a lovely idea! I'd much rather people do something like that rather than spend money on flowers and so on. When my cousin got married about 15 years ago, she asked that instead of gifts, people donate what they would have spent on their favorite charity. She listed a few of her own favorites as well. I picked one and spend more money on that than I would have spent on the gift.

Posted by Mardee OP

Khansen, mea culpa, mea culpa! So sorry! I was posting on the run and
didn’t check the source! It really is a great idea and I think I might
try it. Thank you!

All is good!

Not my idea. Just passing along another pack-light traveler's way of traveling.

We learn from each other.

khansen, so true. 😊 And it's still a good idea, no matter where it came from!

I am bringing back the Costco thread with a few recent finds. Many people seem to like the Athleta Brooklyn ankle pants for travel. Costco has a pair that looks nearly identical, found here. I did not try these as the look too long for me (I am short!).

I did purchase the Kirkland Signature joggers and hoodie that are a "dupe" for the Vuori joggers and zip hoodie. The fabric is very similar and I thought the quality was excellent. I really like my Vuori clothes but they are expensive, though the quality is great. Some sizes are and colors are sold out online, so you may have more luck in store. The sizing seems very simialr to Vuori.

Meg--I bought seem of those Vuori joggers and zip ups! I bought the first jogger back in late September and loved them so much I tried to buy more, but they were sold out. I just saw them again the other week and loaded up! They are just so comfy and are very much like the real thing.

Guess I'll be heading to Costco soon! Thanks for the heads up, Meg!!!

Mardee, I thought I should get on the forum a few minutes while my feet are taking a little break here in Palermo. I looked under “My History” and was excited to see you were back - Enabling! ….Oh rats, an old post! ; )

Ha ha, Jean! But there's new information!