Check in bags or carry on for longer trips

Strictly carry-on. Pack for a week and do laundry (room sink, self-service laundromat or drop off and pickup) along the way. Trips always from 4 to 8 weeks.

You will get people on both sides of this. I check my bag because I don't want it to deal with it in the airport or on the plane. I also do not mind having to wait for it when I land. Anything I can't do without, medication, electronics etc. I carry on with me. Since most of my flights are non-stop I am not too concerned with it getting lost.

However it is not only size, but weight that you have to be concerned with when carrying on. I take enough clothes to be comfortable. Several times I have gone over the weight limit so checked bags. But I can always manage my bags. That is the key.

You need to do what you feel is best for you and what fits best with your packing and travel style.

I've only been on one RS tour. It was my impression that most people must have checked their bags. While most suitcases were not huge, most were larger than 22". Several people who had what I guess were 26" bags, were talking about packing lighter next time. I pack a 21" suitcase, but usually check it these days for ease. The most important issue is that you can carry your suitcase up numerous flights of stairs. If you can, take whatever suitcase you want. If you can lift it fairly comfortably up several flights of stairs...or drag it, as I saw many do, you can bring it. Also, other people had perhaps a 22" suitcase, but also had an extremely large backpack. This might work better as they split the weight. Or practice packing light. It is a fun challenge. Halfway through my tour the hotel did laundry. That worked for many people. I am also a hand washer. It was actually easier handling luggage on this tour than when I travel independently. The only challenge would have been stairs, as I said.

I am all for not checking bags on the way to Europe. In addition to saving time upon arrival, you don't have to worry about whether your bag will be lost or delayed anywhere en route. We have traveled for 4 weeks with only carry ons and it's the only way I'll ever travel again! I realize this is harder in late September than in mid July, when it's easier to fit many light weight items into your bag, but dragging around a large and heavy suitcase is no fun! Check to see whether your airline has a weight restriction. The last time we traveled, we wore our fleece jackets and raincoats onto the plane. The fleece were great when it came time to sleep on the plane. We also discovered that we could fit tons of heavy stuff in the fleece and raincoat pockets, which helped drastically reduce the weight of the suitcases. (Went through TSA with everything in the suitcases; afterwards, we rearranged and moved things like a 12 ounce bag of almonds, snack bars, phones, and even ipad minis to our raincoat pockets. We moved everything back once we were on the plane. If you have waterproof shoes, you really only need one pair of shoes (wear them on the plane), which frees up tons of space/weight in the suitcase. I added a pair of sports sandals for hotel time, but they took up virtually no space. Light weight travel pants take up way less space and weigh less than jeans....plus they dry out a lot faster if you get caught in the rain. For the RS tour, take along an extra duffel or the Rick Steves expanding tote. You can put anything you want into that (including purchases, which can then go into deep storage on the plane). We sometimes check one suitcase -- usually full of dirty clothes and the stuff we are least likely to miss -- on the trip home, and use the RS tote as one of our carry ons -- especially if it's filled with purchases and gifts from the trip that we want to keep close. Good luck!

Whether two or more weeks, I pack the same....light to very light compared to some folks. Always a carry-on. Because of delays for a variety of reasons, we've made connections that were impossible for ground crews to transfer baggage timely and often we fly into an airport and then depart for our first night's accommodation in another city. I don't want to wait for delayed bags or have to back track to gather same. Just me.

I never check bags. I carry on one bag. No wheels. Because if it has wheels and you are not carrying it, it isn't a carry on! ;-)

Some people check everything, some check nothing. If you have to check what you bring, don't worry as long as you can manage to move everything you bring with you yourself, you won't be the only one.

I nearly always carry-on for the way over, check on the way back. If you can maintain the discipline to pack light, checking on the way over is not an issue, if your itinerary supports it. By that I mean if you are staying in your arrival city for a couple days or more, then go ahead and check if you want. If you are landing, then taking off to a distant city or will be roaming places for the first week, then carry on. Your risk is that your bag may be misplaced and need to catch up to you, easy if you are in a nearby place, not so easy if you are a couple hundred miles away and may be one of 3 or 4 places.

Regardless of check or not check, narrow your packing down to what would fit in a normal carry-on size bag, you will thank yourself half way through your trip, especially if you pick up an item or two along the way.

On last year's trip (RS Sicily tour) we were able to do carry on for the transatlantic leg but had problems doing so on the intra-European flights. For example, regular airlines (such as Aer Lingus) have different rules for transatlantic flights compared to flights within Europe. Low cost carriers (e.g. Ryanair, Easyjet) have tough rules regarding carry-one luggage. If you trip involves just one major carrier non-stop from the US, then carry on will be OK.

On our last trip (RS Villages of South England tour) we checked our main luggage and had small carry on bags as well.

Wow!! Lots of food for thought! Thanks everyone for all your advice... I'm still in a conundrum though, since carry on means nothing over 3 oz. liquid unless I do a check in. I suppose one could bring travel sizes of toiletry items? Hmmmm...I'm wondering now if most, or any, of the hotels have any toiletries in the rooms? Any additional information from RS seasoned travelers is always welcomed!

I think Rick once made the point that he goes to Europe for the summer. There is no way one could take enough clothes to go all summer without washing as you wash as you go. Once plan on washing, you only need enough clothes to go between washings. For those of us who stay on top of our washing, i.e., every night wash what you just wore, three days worth or so is enough. I bring along, including what I wear, two more sets of underwear and two extra pair of washable trousers (black, brown, and khaki. I cheat a little on shirts - about five, so I can vary my outfits a little. I just did a three week trip like this. Yeah, I get tired of washing clothes every night; but it sure is nice to have a light bag. A high point of my trip is when I know I have enough clean clothes to finish the trip and don't have to wash anymore.

Lots of opinions and as I have said in the past: There is (IMHO) no right way to travel. It helps to do what works for you. For numerous trips, I have taken the RS Rolling Carry On and a personal item (filled with camera gear, chargers, emergency meds and a change of clothing.) I am a single traveler and started out in the "you MUST take luggage on board with you." However, I had to check a bag once and felt totally liberated when strolling around the airport without extra luggage (of course, it may be different if you have a partner to watch your luggage when you get a coffee or whatever.) Also, I got to stop worrying about whether there would be overhead bin space or not (or if my luggage would fit into it!) Today, with tracking, luggage is rarely lost, although it can be delayed. To help prevent this: 1) Make sure there are no excess "loops" on bags you are checking (like a carrying strap) which could snag on automatic conveyor belts, 2) Clearly label the outside of your bag (of course, with nothing truly valuable in it) with your name and means of contact, 3) Verify the destination city when they put the luggage tape on your bag and that the luggage tape is not folded over, 4) Avoid tight connections (if you have to hurry to make your flight, your luggage may be delayed--I prefer at least a 2.5 hour layover), 5) Put an itinerary with the dates and addresses of your first several hotels on it right on top of your clothing so it will be easily found when the luggage is opened. Is it a pain to have your luggage delayed, sure, there are parts of travel (like having no overhead bin space) which are never fun. But my checked baggage is generally toiletries, clothing and non-essential or easily replaced meds. So I wouldn't sweat it if it was delayed or lost (as an aside, I take a small rider out which adds coverage for lost luggage.) Well, that's my story and it works for me. As I said, no right way to travel and I know other people do it differently. Enjoy your trip.

All hotels will have toiletries in the room. I stay everywhere from higher end hotels to small hostals, and they all do. I usually take my own shampoo (travel size or in a travel bottle) and my conditioner, which is in a tube, but use their body wash or soap. I take a small nylon "fluffy" in a baggie, too, since that's what I use at home. You can fit more than one travel size shampoo, toothpaste, etc in your 3-1-1 bag.

Carrying a bag onto a flight is not always my goal nor my most important reason to pack light. The still-generous limits of a carry-on sized bag help to ensure that you can handle your own bag easily in a variety of situations, including train stations, hotel stairs, cobblestones, and more. Even within a size limit like 20"x14"x9", you have to be vigilant not to pack more than you need or can carry. Excess toiletries can easily take you over that limit.

Travel-sized toiletries actually last me quite a long time, if I use them. Maybe I'm more parsimonious with shampoo on the road. As well as all hotels provide either soap and shampoo or a multi-purpose shower gel. New slogan: Every Ounce Counts. (Don't be like the two young women I roomed with on the road in Greece who were each carrying a Costco-sized bottle of shampoo.)

Since doing our first RS tour have never had to bring more than a carry on bag, and small back pack, which became our "day" bag while touring in a city.

Did not encounter a hotel that did not have soap and shampoo. Not all provide conditioner, so wife brings a 3 oz bottle to use when at a place that did not provide it.
It is amazing how long you can use a 0.85 oz toothpaste tube. ( the size the dentist gives you) 2 people twice a day easily does a week or more.

On the RS tours we have been on the 20-22" rolling carry-on was the overwhelming majority. Next was backpack only. Then someone with a 24-26 roller bag.

On the flight to/from Europe, people may have checked their bag, but most folks had what the major carriers allow as carry on.

The way the carry on philosophy works, is you do laundry as you go. Bringing 15 changes of clothes 'aint gonna work'.

If you bring more than 1 pair of shoes, wear the biggest, bulkiest ones on the plane.

If you have not already done so, check out the RS packing guide.

Anyone that travels with our family must travel with carry on's, and I don't carry anyone's luggage. I watched my father suffer through world travel with my mother's 40 lb. suitcase because she never learned to travel light.
With a 21" rolling bag, we can travel indefinitely. And so can you.
I'm always appalled when i go through European airports and see travelers attempting to pickup their huge suitcases--and often two huge suitcases. It just doesn't work, folks.

I bring my own toiletries in the 3-1-1 bag and have never needed more than a travel sized amount for two weeks and all liquids fit in that bag. A bar of soap or stick deodorant for instance would not need to be in the liquids bag. I bring travel sized mascara, switch to a Bare Minerals compact foundation, etc to limit my liquids. Some items, like facial cream that are used more sparingly are in small 0.5 ounce containers as I don't need a full 3 ounces. I have had the best luck with the Nalgene leak-proof travel bottles that are sold at The Container Store and probably Amazon and others.

Since you are going in September you have time to run some liquid trials, lol!! Fill some 3 oz containers and pack your 3-1-1 bag ( a single 1 quart bag with containers no larger than 3 oz). THEN, for 2 weeks or however many days you will be gone, see how much you use out of the 3 oz. Unless you have really long hair I'll bet 3oz will be fine. Many here buy shampoo etc when they get to their destination. I am sensitive to shampoo and conditioner (and deodo) so I do better if I take my own.

I also carry on going over but check coming home. I have checked going over but try to only do that when I will be in my first location for several days. If you are immediately starting on your tour and moving you may want to consider carrying on so nothing gets lost to begin with. On one tour I went on, one gal's luggage went missing and we were about 4 nights in to the tour before it caught up with her. She did have to shop for clothes in Dublin.

If you do check, make sure you have a copy of your itinerary in your bag in case someone needs to figure out where you are.

I also have a bus bag. I use either a RS Veloce backpack or a LeSportSac medium tote for the days I am on the bus. I use it for a rain layer, umbrella, guide book, kindle, snacks, water, etc. I just leave it on the bus during activities.

I agree with the suggestion to do a trial with travel sized toiletries to see how long they last you. I have done that with most things before I take them. You might be surprised at how little you really need. I would have agreed with everyone that the hotel alway has some soap, until my last trip. I stayed at a small hotel in a small town in Germany, and they didn't have so much as hand soap in the room. Luckily I bring my own 3oz shampoo, so I used that for hand soap and body wash the first day until I could buy something.

I agree with the sentiment that as long as you can manage your own luggage comfortably, then you can bring a carry on or even a slightly larger bag, whatever works for you. I definitely lean toward packing light, although I'm not an expert yet, and prefer a backpack to a roller bag since I like being hands free, but what works for me isn't the answer for everyone. On my RS Eastern Europe trip I saw a mix of backpacks, small roller bags and medium size roller bags, but everyone handled their own luggage just fine. One thing to note though, I don't think anyone took "2+ weeks worth of necessities." I think most, including me, packed enough for about 5-7 days and then did laundry along the way. I saw pretty much everyone wearing the same shirts over and over and no one cared. I've done this on multiple trips and never had anyone say "hey didn't you wear that last week?" No one cares because they're all doing the same thing.

As far as toiletries, as long as you don't need something really specific (like a certain brand of cream or makeup due to skin allergies, etc.) you can always start with a small size and replace as needed. I bought more hairspray at a convenience store in Poland when I ran out and recently replaced a toothbrush in New Zealand when the one I had brought with me unexpectedly snapped in half! As long as you can be flexible with what brands you use you can find replacements just about anywhere. My hair is short and easy to maintain so I use whatever shampoo the hotel offers. Also instead of packing hand lotion I snag a free one from a hotel and carry that in my purse every day and toss it before I come home. I also use contact lens cases to carry small amounts of products like face cream. (I don't wear contacts, I just use the cases because they're water tight.) There are also solid versions of things like sunscreen, shampoo and toothpaste that don't count as liquids. My point is, if you really want to limit your liquids and go carry on, there are ways to do it, but if you pack a slightly larger bag and check it, that's fine too, as long as you can carry it.

Thanks again, everyone for all the feedback and great ideas! I'm definitely going to try the 3-1-1 trail idea! I do agree that a carry on is a good idea especially if one will be getting to a city and then heading out right away! My husband's suitcase was lost in italy a few years ago, and it took him 9 days to get it because of our travel schedule! He did end up buying a few pairs of pants and shirts to get by, as luckily, he had packed a few extra items in his carry on bag! We really didnt want to spend our precious time in another country going clothes shopping.... not fun!

I check my bags because I hate pulling them around the airport with me. I can't fly direct from my home city to anywhere in Europe, so the layovers are a pain with luggage. Also, last year our flight to Athens went through Toronto. Flight from Cleveland to Toronto was very late and we had to literally run through the Toronto airport to get to our flight. We were the very last people to get on the flight to Athens and they did hold the doors open a few extra minutes for us. Had we had a luggage with us, we would have NEVER been able to get to the gate in time. Plus, it's free on over seas flights. I don't mind waiting at baggage claim for luggage, it gives me a few minutes to stand around, clear my head, and think about what I'm doing next.

No matter if you check bags or carry on (or both) always put half of your stuff is his bag and half of his stuff in your bag. Checked bags do get misrouted and may not catch up with you for several days. Carry on bags are sometimes gate checked regardless of size. If one of your bags goes on it's own vacation you will still be able to get by without doing an emergency shopping run.

We usually can get direct flights to Europe .. so we often check a bag. .but the bag is still carry on size.. we dont like lugging heavy bags up stairs and stuff.. and you will have to do that at some point i guarantee it.
We go to europe for 4-5 weeks normally.

If I get bored with my wardrobe I usually buy one or two new tops in europe.. doubles as a souvenir.. and I have something new to wear..

I only take a carryon (20") and keep the weight to 17 pounds (he inter-Europe carry-on limit of many airlines).

I replace as many liquids with sollds as I can. Stick sunscreen, bar shampoo instead of liquid. I do handwash in the sink daily. Some people bring laundry detergent, but i use the hotel provided shampoo or body gel. Works fine. Consider trimming your makeup routine too. I think my next trip it's going to be sunscreen and lipstick only because after only a few days, that's all I end up using.

having only a few choices of clothing to wear is liberating: fewer decisions and fewer items to manage on the road.

I wear Icebreaker wool tanks, short-sleeved t-shirt and one long-sleeved shirt. I also take Icebreaker tights/long-underwear.: one ankle-length and one mid-calf length. All these products are merino wool: anti-microbial, quick drying, keep you comfortable warm and cool.

Plan to buy toothpaste, contact lens solution and other common liquids abroad.

Reduce your electronics items if you were considering taking multiple items.

My solution (pun intended) to the liquid problems (although I frequently check bags) is: lots of things can be solids..... crystal deodorant, toothpaste tablets, shampoo bars etc. Also, most (but not all) hotels offer some toiletries. Finally, even a travel size liquid can go a long way if you are aware that the supply is limited. Of course, you can buy liquids when you arrive but I haven't had to do that yet.

Hello Ray,

Hmmmm... I haven't heard of toothpaste tablets? I'm curious about these. As far as the other toiletries...I think this is where it's quite a bit easier for men to downsize than women. I will probably just bring as many of my " can't do without" toiletries, moisturizers, etc, in the 3-1-1 bag. I know some travelers don't mind waiting and buying these items when upon arrival. I prefer not to spend/ waste time in a pharmacy, (when we are paying substantial amount of $$$ to get to our destination) with the precious little time we have to see the sights and experience the culture. Having said this though, I suppose getting toiletries can be a cultural experience depending on your location!
Thanks for your response Ray!

rk, I make a point of going to local shops, pharmacies, department stores, etc., on every trip. It is indeed a chance to interact with local people and see how they do their business. I enjoy that more than stale museums, ancient ruins and fine art, as I find the contemporary life in foreign countries to be more interesting.

Point well taken, Ray!! I must admit... I found one of my favorite colognes while meandering around Florence a few years ago! Thanks for giving me another perspective!!😉

Here is the link to toothpaste tablets on Amazon (if it doesn't work look up Archtek Toothpaste Tablet.) I count two for every day I'm away (morning and night) then transfer them to a small plastic baggie so they take up less room. Just chew one tablet (without water) and it foams up nicely. I've done shopping for small things abroad (wine openers, food, toiletries) and it is okay and a "cultural experience." However, I've done it a number of times and don't mind it, but it is certainly not a dream of mine to buy shampoo in Sicily or antacids in Antwerp. If it happens, so be it, I'll do it and find it mildly interesting. But I prefer to take most of the necessities with me.

I discovered 2 things for our recent 3 week Ireland Scotland and Iceland trip that i will be using going forward.

*packing cubes
*moisture resistant pants. (Columbia with zip off bottoms so they can be used as shorts)

Packing cubes made staying organized so much easier.

These pants were fantastic. They kept me cool when it was hot and dry when it was rainy and were warm enough that I was comfortable no matter the temperature. I plan to get another pair and then that'll be all I take no matter how long the trip is.

The only other thing I plan to do is invest in better socks that aren't cotton and can be hand washed and hung to dry overnight. I will probably do the same thing with underwear but the ones I have aren't cotton and they did a pretty good job.

Because socks and underwear take up such little space I'm perfectly fine with taking six or seven pair of each.

Vick,

I am also thinking the packing cubes sound like a great way to stay organized and pack more into a suitcase. Which brand did you use? There are many to choose from, and perhaps they are all about the same?
The Columbia pants sound great for men... not so sure about them for women though. I'd love to know if any women have used them on trips?

I love the ebags slim packing cubes (technically not a cube). Rolled clothes fit nicely and the cubes/ tubes slide nicely in and out of a backpack. I have also used tooth powder in a small zip locked bag instead of toothpaste. For antiperspirant, I take the travel sized solid out of its bulky container and wrap it in kitchen cling wrap. I love my Columbia Aruba roll-up pants for women: very lightweight and they roll up to capris! It is great to travel so light and I pack less with each trip.

Thanks for your information, Fluffy. I appreciate knowing you think the cubes are functional, because the I've been wondering about they warrant the price, especially when other companies have cheaper cubes. I'm thinking about purchasing the 5 cube pack with varying sizes, which exactly fit into a carry on. My hope is that they will keep me organized, while limiting the items I bring on the trip! As for the Columbia pants, do you think theyd be warm enough for daytime temps in the 60's and evenings in the lower 50's? I know many people do not favor bringing jeans at all, due to the weight, and their lengthy drying time, so I'm looking for pants that can be dressed up or down and will be warm enough on the cooler days.
I appreciate all the comments on this subject!!

Glad to help, Runningklein. The slim bags and other brands smaller bags work best for me. I have larger ones that didn't get used (too big). The Columbia Aruba pants (mine are black; FYI they run small) ARE very lightweight. I would be fine in them with those temps, especially while moving and wearing compression wool knee socks. Some people layer with leggings, I hear, which could help if you're cold-natured. As others have said, there usually is shampoo/conditioner in the rooms, but there often aren't washcloths in Europe. I have used makeup remover wipes or baby wipes (they don't have to be put in the 311 bag with the liquids) to wash my face at night and then use it as a washcloth in the shower. There are some Oil of Olay facial cloths that are dry, and thus even lighter. For laundry I got some Purex 3 in 1 dry sheets saturated with detergent and fabric softener (yay, no liquid). Half of one washed a sink of clothes. The rubbery clothesline didn't work for me. I got an inflatable travel hanger. It held the shirt open to dry more quickly. The hotel room in Prague had a towel warmer, so my items were dry in an hour. For the last trip, I only took one pair of shoes (New Balance dark walking shoes. I wasn't going to hurt this time!) aside from the flip flops for the baths in Budapest. I sprayed them 3-4 times with water proofing spray, which proved extremely effective! I recommend it highly, even if you take 2 pairs of shoes. My feet remained dry in several heavy downpours. I used the RS Veloce shoulder bag/backpack and a canvas tote bag from Amazon. Carryon only is very workable.

I almost always check my carry-on coming home. The reason for this is I tend to accumulate things while in Europe ;) I don't worry about using the compression straps on my bag for the trip home because i don't have to if I check my bag. I also always bring a collapsible bag and stuff it empty into my carry-on. Then I'll use that for backing some souvenirs that need some tlc and use that bag as my carry-on. I'll include some clothes for extra padding. My 3-1-1 bag will be safely in my checked bag at that point along with the maximum allowed wine ;)

My husband and I did carryon for our recent RS Sicily trip, which was tough because Alitalia domestic is 17 lbs. suitcase plus one personal item. One of our personal items was our incredibly lightweight RS day pack which held all our toiletries, my makeup, and our two quart liquid bags. It was far easier than I thought! I carried the 20 inch RS suitcase. While I wish it was a lb. or so lighter, it worked beautifully. Included two pairs of shoes (I wore my serious walking shoes on the plane. My husband's bag was smaller and lighter than mine. Of course, we packed for warm weather, always easier.

Q for Laura above - were those the Alitalia guidelines for carryon bags?

I really wish they would update this message board so it's more like a normal Message Board. Even if they use the Tapatalk format. It's too hard to keep track of threads and the quoting functions terrible.

I just know saw the OPs question back to me....

I found some pretty basic packing cubes they're actually called Amazon basics. I got really lucky and they were on sale and was able to get 4 packing cubes for $9. Within two days they had gone back up to the over $20 so I actually bought four different sets to cover everyone in my family.

They worked very well. They came with two larger ones and two smaller ones I guess I'd say they're more medium size.

I used the medium sized ones for myself since I carried kind of a hiking type backpack and they worked great. My wife used a rolling carry-on so she used one of the bigger ones and then a couple medium ones.

I am totally sold on packing cubes now. I just wish I would have discovered these 25 years ago it was always so hard to keep your stuff organized and not a big mess

Regarding your question about the Columbia pants. I'm sure other brands are just as good because they're probably made out of similar material. My wifes lower half is a bit on the stocky/sexy (!) size....(to match the top side)... (i know, TMI...but she isnt overweight) so she was concerned about how they might fit her so she didnt even look for any.

So she actually wore jeans the whole trip but she plans to get similar type pants for our next trip.

I could literally go three weeks with two pairs of these pants so long as I can wash once a week.

Also, you would be perfectly fine in temperatures in the 50s. I think you could even go lower easily if you're walking a lot but if that's a concern you could always wear some type of cold gear tights under neath.

Heck, all my daughter wore were tights the whole trip.

I guess maybe I should add one more thing about the temperature. I do tend to be able to tolerate cooler temperatures with my lower half maybe more than others. I can wear shorts in 40 degree weather and be perfectly fine it's my upper body that gets cold and as long as my feet are warm I'm good to go

Thank you, Vick for all the useful information!! I will definitely use the packing cubes and hope I'll also see them at a bargain price! As far as the Columbia Pants, I think I will give them a try.., although, the weather is 🌴 tropical where I live, so I tend to forget what it feels like to be in 50ish degree weather! I will just bring tights also, in case I'm not feeling very warm blooded!!
I greatly appreciate you taking the time to help another traveler!

Good point. Yeah, i live in the midwest so we get all seasons to the extreme so kind of used to it.

I think the philosophy of traveling light and carry on board is a good one. Prior to our 2015 tour to France with Rick Steve's, I practiced the packing and traveling light way domestically. While I found the packing light part relatively easy, the airlines today are not consistent with their ability to handle carry ons. I found that at times, while my bag was within limit, their overhead bins were not always compliant with size they regulate.
This year, we are flying to Amsterdam and picking up a Rick Steve's Italy tour. We will be traveling for almost a month. It will be in the Fall which always means weather can be variable. I still plan to pack light and try to carry on. It is so wonderful to just get out of the plane, hit customs if you have to and get out of the airport. Be sure to check with all the airlines you will be flying with for their restrictions before you get to the airport.

Just adding a thought about the toothpaste tabs. If you go with them, be sure to try them at home. The foamy stuff kind of makes me gag. In addition to the shampoo/conditioner/moisturizer trial I have run a toothpaste trial, lol....

As far as packing cubes, the ones I like best are the Eagle Creek sil-nylon compression cubes. Their name for it is Spectre. You can see them if you have an REI near you or sometimes my local AAA store has them in their travel shop. You can also find them online a bit cheaper at Sierra Trading Post. They are lightweight, and squish your stuff down about 1/3 the size. Weight is still the same, of course, but it takes up less room. There is a trick to packing these so do some practicing to see what works best for your clothes. Many roll their clothes in the packing cubes but I find with the compression ones that shirts do better with a flat fold. Rolling them makes the compression cube not as flat after it is zipped down. I take the larger size Spectre cube for shirts and have another one for underwear, socks, pj's. I flat fold my pants on the bottom of my 21" roller.

Thanks, Pam! This is very helpful information! As far as the toothpaste tablets, I will definitely try them out first. I'm just wondering if they clean one's teeth as well as plain old toothpaste? I will definitely plan to check out the Eagle Creek packing cubes, and I agree with this suggestion to fold shirts flat as opposed to rolling them. I like the idea of putting your pants on the bottom of the suitcase; it sounds like a good way to save space!
I just ordered the Travelpro 22" Maxlite 4 carry on, and I admit, it looks pretty small, but I'm gonna give it a try. It's too bad that the bars extending from the suitcase handle into the actual inside of the suitcase area do take up more of the precious little amount of space there is! It would be great to have the bottom of the suitcase be totally flat! If anyone knows of a good bag that is flat on the bottom, yet still is a rollaboard, and has an extending handle, let me know! Packing, unfortunately, has never been my favorite thing to do. However, I'm very pleased upon arriving at the destination and feeling I have brought just enough... not too little or too much!
I am grateful to all those that have offered many wonderful ideas!!

I am thinking all rollaboards are going to have bars in the bottom. I just pack smaller stuff in those spaces - extra shoe insoles, a little ziplock bag with tea bags and sugars, bag of OTC meds, bag of maps if I don't need them right away, etc. Actually if you do your pants on the bottom they kind of mold to the space any way.

This will make you laugh, but I'll bet after a few trips fitting stuff in to the 22" and you'll think it's too big...hahaha!! Welcome to the club!

I use contact lens cases (like these) to hold small amounts of toiletries (such as a prescription ointment for skin). My eye doctor happily hands them over for free and they're great - waterproof and flat. If you wear cosmetics they work for that as well. While you're doing your 3-1-1 test drive, put all of your toiletries in the mix. You'll be surprised how little you actually use.

And having been on this particular tour, there were a couple of long-ish (but not horrible) walks from the bus to the hotel. We had people bring enormous bags and carry on's - as has been mentioned, it's what you are capable of carrying. The heavy bag people weren't happy. Bring a lightweight tote bag or duffel bag to use as deep storage on the bus - if some things are too heavy, you can store them on the bus and fetch as needed. I hope you get Peter for your guide, he is simply amazing.

Interesting responses, all. I vote for checked luggage, because (a) the size restrictions for carry-on bags are so variable, and (b) I simply don't want to be saddled with luggage when getting to/from the aircraft. I'll gladly wait at baggage-claim for my wheeled bag to be delivered into my hands. To me it's worth the extra wait.

BTW, my wife and I never travel with luggage that we can't handle all by ourselves -- one relatively small wheeled bag and one day-pack apiece.

We just took the RS tour of Central Europe this way, adding a side-trip on our own. Worked like a charm.

Regards from Southern California!

I always check my suitcase. Planes today are so crowded, that trying to get down the narrow aisles with a suitcase is not only a hassle for the person with the suitcase, but you run the risk of hitting passengers who are already seated. It also makes the boarding process take longer. Additionally, there's never enough overhead bin space, so unless you're lucky enough to board early you have to hunt for space for your suitcase. Besides, I was on a flight once where an overhead bin popped open mid flight. Fortunately, the bin wasn't loaded with heavy luggage so no one was hurt and an attentive flight attendant quickly removed the items that were in there and moved them elsewhere, while we were treated to a flapping overhead bin door for the remainder of the flight. As for lost or delayed luggage, I keep a few essentials in my backpack or carryon to tide me over until my bag is located.

Whether I carry on a bag or check it, I always have my name and cell phone number inside, as well as my itinerary: the dates and names/contact information for where I'll be staying. But I much prefer packing light and carrying on! I checked a bag once when returning to Venice - I arrived Friday, my bag Sunday evening. That was very stressful since I was graduating from a University in Venice Monday morning!

Having used the two gallon ziplock bags for years, I find them easy to slip into and out of your bag. They also are light and can segment your clothing into categories. They are not so easily available, but some Walmarts carry them. I just came back from 7 weeks away and used a carry on plus a backpack. The paper goods for info on destination cities constitute the heaviest part of the backpack goods, plus reading material on paper I still enjoy. Having a smaller bag to carry in cities as well gives more choices in what to take during a touristic day. Only carry on on the way to your trip makes sure you are not without what you need on arrival. Washing out clothing every night keeps you ahead of the laundry.

Typically we check luggage as we arrive in a town a couple of days before any tour. Since I've had to start traveling with a CPAP 2 sets of carry-ons were too much to deal with. In 30+ years of travel & 60 countries my luggage was delayed 4 times. That said, I ALWAYS pack a set of underwear, socks & a shirt in my carry-on just in case. I still pack light but choose to risk delay. If I were leaving on tour immediately I'd consider carrying-on and shlepping through the airport.

Yes, you can easily do your two week tour with only carry on luggage (although it may be an adjustment, if you are used to checking luggage). My husband & I learned to pack lightly, while doing seven Rick Steves tours combined with independent travel. Nearly everyone on our tours packed lightly & brought minimal luggage. Those few who did not were the exception. Most of us looked like we were in uniform (clothes from REI, Tilley, Columbia, Ex Officio. Travelsmith). However, travel clothes have become more stylish in recent years. We have since traveled for two months or more with only carry on luggage. Only recently, did we check luggage for a three month cruise in several climates. The key is to stick to a couple of basic colors (As I am sure you know, black is always appropriate in Europe). My preferred carry on luggage is the Rick Steves roll aboard (the size considered small enough for the overhead bin on most European flights). I previously tried the version without wheels, but was not comfortable carrying it through busy airports or on escalators & replaced it after one or two trips. Depending on your airline, you might have to gate check your carry on, but it is still better than dealing with regular checked luggage. As a companion piece, I use the Rick Steves tote that fits on top of the suitcase (& fits under the seat). If you are allowed only one piece of carry on luggage & one personal item on your flights, you will have to pack your purse (I prefer Bagallini) &/or Rick Steves Civita Day Pack (which weighs nothing) in your luggage. Have a great trip!

My wife and I have traveled outside of the US about 14 times in the last 10 years and we have never checked our bags other than a trip to China. We are gone at least for a month at at time and yes we do pack light. The important thing to remember is that they do sell clothes and toiletries everywhere in the world so stop being concerned about what to bring. We take three- four complete changes of clothes and buy shampoo, toothpaste and deodorant there.

We have been very happy with the two backpacks we bought at the Rick Steves store.
We just returned from a Rick Steves tour and one of the members did not get her luggage until the third day. Not a pleasant experience fir her.

My wife and I have traveled outside of the US about 14 times in the last 10 years and we have never checked our bags other than a trip to China. We are gone at least for a month at at time and yes we do pack light. The important thing to remember is that they do sell clothes and toiletries everywhere in the world so stop being concerned about what to bring. We take three- four complete changes of clothes and buy shampoo, toothpaste and deodorant there.

We have been very happy with the two backpacks we bought at the Rick Steves store.
We just returned from a Rick Steves tour and one of the members did not get her luggage until the third day. Not a pleasant experience fir her.

For a different opinion on slacks, I would suggest wearing what you wear at home. People live in these countries and I doubt they have special clothing. At home, I live in black jeans (NYDJ) so I wouldn't want to adjust to another pair of pants that I'm likely not to wear at home. I want to feel like myself when I travel. Many jeans now have spandex or a similar material in a small amount in the 'jean' and that makes all the difference in drying. And, if you have something like NYDJ from different seasons the weight varies according to season, so obviously the summer jeans dry quite quickly. Except for the most humid environment, when nothing dried over night, these jeans (or jeans with equivalent fabric) dried overnight. So don't rule out jeans, if they are what you are comfortable in, just check out the fabric content. I don't like man-made material in general so I always try to get as high a blend of natural fabrics in my clothes as possible while still being convenient and neat. I guess I am one of the few who will pack a 100% cotton blouse and tee shirt in my bag for complete rebellion. Granted the rest is not 100% cotton. In the future you might find you never buy anything without considering how it travels...LOL. It's addictive.

PS, if you usually travel independently, on a Rick Steves tour dealing with your luggage is much easier than going solo. Keep that in mind. I think RS makes a big deal of it just so people are not surprised if they've only had US travel with bell hops. So consider where you fit in on the scale and adjust or not, accordingly. Also, our guide had a huge suitcase and was perfectly happy with it. It was a truck and she managed it fine up the stairs...dragging works...which was really the only issue. She said she did not want to deal with laundry or wear the same outfits...but, shhhhh, don't tell Rick.

My goal has always been to not check luggage, so that I'm forced to pack light to make managing all my stuff easier during the trip. And it works for our 2 week trips. Pack enough for a week and wear most clothing more than once, and find somewhere to wash clothes midway through the trip. I do hand washing of socks and underwear using a large 2-1/2 gallon ziploc bag. We each have a 21" rolling carry-on and a personal item (back pack or underseat bag) that fits on the other bag. Having said that, on our last trip I was recovering from shoulder surgery and could not lift my bag into the overhead storage, so I checked a slightly larger bag. And that gave us the freedom to take a whole lot more liquids in that bag. I find it very difficult to pack all I need in the one quart bag and usually end up having to visit a pharmacy right away. But when I do check a bag on the way to a destination, I make sure I have a change of clothes and necessities in my other bag, just in case it gets lost for a couple of days.

Since packing light is a challenge, use a convertible carry-on, not a roller. Rollers add weight and subtract from the total volume you can carry, so you'll get more actual "stuff" in a backpack.

Of course, it somewhat depends on what airline you are flying. Some European airlines limit you to 8 kg (17.6#) which make it difficult to take much in a 6# roller. US airlines don't limit the weight, but still limit the size, which can still affect what you can take.

My goal generally is try to pack light. I use ricks 22" rolling suitcase and one of his backpacks. Just got back from 3 weeks in Europe. I only packed 1 weeks of clothes.. wore same clothes going and coming. Small toiletries. Toss them on last day. This time I took ok'd underwear and tossed them . Why is it so hard to trash them at home ...lol. I sleep in tshirts and short. Took old pair in case I needed to toss them. Never take umbrella with me. Buy one there if needed and toss. I always carry on going. Depends on how much I buy if I carry on or check. We use the shirt folders for tops. No packing cubes. Took a packing light class at a travel store called elephant trunk in tulsa. Gave us good ideas. Husband only takes one shoes but I take two, so I stuff the shoes with small stuff..

Have booked two RS tour back to back for 2018. We will be gone again for 21 days again. Hope I do better this time.

On the topic of lightweight pants, I can recommend Eddie Bauer (their travel line) and EMS (Eastern Mountain Sports), both of which are a more generous fit than Columbia. I have two pair of the long pants that roll up to Capri length, as well as crop pants. I also just bought crop pants in the same material from Duluth Trading Company and like them so well, I am wearing them all the time at home, not just for travel. Last December I took the RS Munich/Salzburg/Vienna trip, and took Eddie Bauer's winter version of these pants (lined with fleece), along with my silk underwear. I was always comfortable, even with temps in the low 30s. At home I wear these when I go snowshoeing.

On packing cubes, I have been using the ones from the RS store, and they work fine for me. Whatever you do, packing light is the way to go. I wash clothes in the sink the first night of any multiday stop, so don't have an accumulation of dirty laundry in my bags.

Lots of great suggestions on this forum exchange. Thanks to all for your tips!

Thanks Smy!
Love your ideas for pants and packing cubes! One question though.. are these pants good for someone like myself, who is petitie?? I am hoping they are waterproof, since you never know what the weather can be like in the fall! We are definitely going to use the packing bags, pack as light as possible and hopefully just bring carry ons!! We have two layovers though, so trying to figure out if we will check the bags anyway, so we aren't lugging them around during the layovers. If we had a direct flight ( I wish!) or only one stop, I'm sure we would keep the carry ons with us. However, the second stop makes me wonder if others just still feel it is best to take bags on plane or check in and trust the airlines!?!!
As always, thanks for the excellent suggestions everyone!!!👍😉

How long are your layovers?

I often have 2 layovers - SLC and MSP and try to organize those so they are 2-2.5 hours each and that's not too bad. Coming back time before last I had a NINE hour layover and there was no way I was gonna cart that case around with me for that time frame. I usually check on the way home anyway.

Unfortunately, Our layovers are each not quite 2 hours... so NOT a lot of time😒. We may need to check the bags even if they are technically " carry on." I hope everyone that lives in major cities knows how lucky they are when it comes to international travel!!! Lol! Better prices and fewer layovers!

I check my carryon bag. I think it is annoying having luggage with me in the airport, even if it has wheels. The carryon, for me, is to keep the weight down so I can manage it through cities and on and off transportation, etc. Yes, I'm from the East coast, but I check it anyway. Except if I have a layover in London when I'm staying at a hotel airport...then I'm not sure I want my suitcase floating around the back of Heathrow for 15 hours... But I might try it one of these days. Just make sure you have all your meds, electronic devices/chargers, and a change of clothes in your underseat bag...just in case. I've never had an issue that didn't result in delivery to my hotel within 12 hours...and those were skis, and the flights had involved a run to the flight/snow storms for us so the skis didn't make it. So pack light, but make your life easier by checking your bag if you want. It makes it easier and quicker to get on and off the plane, so you are ahead of the rest of the people when deplaning, assuming you snag a seat toward the front of your seating class. I'd rather wait at the luggage carousel where I can go to the bathroom, get organized, etc. while I wait, if necessary, than wait while squeezed in the aisle with people futzing with their excessive carryon luggage.

Excellent points Wray! Although I like the idea of carry ons for ease of mobility once at the destination, I really do not like lugging them around airports and trying to lift into the crowded overhead bins! I am not a tall person, so sometimes I have had to actually stand on my seat to get my bag up or down from the overhead bin.!! (Definitely NOT petite person friendly overheads!) As others have mentioned here, as long as one packs an extra day or two of clothes,medical necessities, etc., in the under seat bag, then checking a carry on does seem to make the most sense. much easier to get through an airport very quickly if necessary too.

I agree with array in theory, but for me, the prospect of checking the bag (the automated bag checks are the worst!), sometimes with a longer line than the security line, and then waiting at the carousel makes me crazy. My carryon is light enough that I can hoist it most of the time.

I take a few minutes to get organized before leaving the airport, as well. I am usually done by the time the carousel starts up.

@Zoe, If you use the porters(?)/redcaps at the curb, you don't have to wait in line. They will check your bag right there. Or is that just a Logan Airport thing? PS, I hate that automated bag check, but I only had to do that once...and, in fact, an employee did it for me...on SAS in Sweden. I guess if I start flying airlines other than BA, that might be an issue?!

"I hope everyone that lives in major cities knows how lucky they are when it comes to international travel!!! Lol! Better prices and fewer layovers!"

Isn't that the truth! I've learned not to do the 38 MINUTE layover that is a legal min. connection time in SLC. Yes, I have done it in 18 minutes with a comfort stop because I know that airport really well, lol, but it just stresses me out. Anyway, for me 2 hours with carry on isn't too bad. The bathroom stalls in most US airports are big enough to fit a roller but if you have to hustle to your next flight, I hate to have to do that trying to drag a wheelie.

I can't remember if anyone has asked this, but are you going a few days ahead of your tour? I've had a couple of tours where people arrived on the day the tour started, luggage didn't make it and on one, the luggage finally caught up on Day 4. If you all do decide to check I might hedge my bets and pack some clothing in each other's suitcases, then recombobulate once you and your luggage arrive.

'...but I'm trying to remember the last time I used a curb check at the airport rather than going to the drop off line...so, maybe inaccurate info...I used to use them all the time, but now...hmmm'. This thought popped into my mind while I was sewing so thought I'd add it.

It's been YEARS since I checked a bag. Why would you want to? First, I lost a checked bag once that was never returned. Because of Warsaw Convention rules I got paid about 35% of what the suitcase and contents were worth - you're reimbursed based on the weight of the bag/contents only. I decided that I would never intentionally check a bag again. Secondly, after you realize that you can go carry on only, you won't want to lug around MORE luggage. As Rick says, who brags after five international trips "each time I travel abroad I carry even more luggage than the time before."

I honestly can't imagine what I additional stuff I would want to haul around the world that I can't already pack in a carry on bag. There is no downside to being more mobile and bypassing the luggage handling system altogether.

P&G, that is interesting. I did not know that about reimbursement under the Warsaw Convention. Would you mind elaborating? Was is a US legacy carrier? Did you have separate travel insurance or was that what the airline reimbursement was?

Recently came back from 2.5 week trip to England and Wales and only had a rolling carry on and RS purse like bag that works great diagonally over the shoulder. With room on the way back for souvenirs. And I still think I took more than I needed which I will remedy next time.

Hi run, I take the same luggage for 1 week or 4 weeks - a 21" roller and a carry on. I check the roller and (so far) never had lost luggage in Europe (had it "delayed" a few times in the US but it caught up with me). I take clothing that can be washed (in the sink) and dries quickly. Love the Eddie Bauer TravEx collection. I also plan my "wardrobe" so everything matches. I check my packing list when I get home, note what was essential and remove things I could have done without. It's an ongoing process!