Travel Light and Bright
It’s the time of year when many of us Golden People hit the roads, the rails, the waves and the skyways. The crowds in popular destinations disperse and the weather becomes transitional in most parts of the world. A friend and I leave today for two weeks in Tuscany and a few days in Rome.
Lynne hasn’t traveled much and was appalled at the limitations placed on the number of pieces of luggage (one duffel or soft-sided bag and one carry-on) plus curious about how to stretch limited pieces of clothing over the trip’s tenure when washing facilities would be slim and drying might have to take place overnight.
I take much of this for granted now but it’s been a lesson learned over many years of travel with a lot of trial and error, plus tips borrowed from fellow travelers. I’m embarrassed to recall my first international trip on which I lugged two huge suitcases in addition to a large cosmetic case, a purse and cameras. I might as well have worn a sign that read “GREEN!” And, believe it or not, those two suitcases got left at the first night’s hotel and took five days to catch up with us.
Those who travel light, travel bright. It’s much easier to wind your way through airports and hotel lobbies, in and out of cabs, on and off buses if you’re not saddled with heavy luggage.
The most important rule is to have a sturdy bag that’s easy to manage. Decent luggage is affordable. It doesn’t matter how it looks but it does matter how it carries, or pulls. Not all airports have convenient trolleys, not all cabbies are helpful, and don’t count on assistance at bus steps, which are always steep.
The second rule is the bag should be the correct size—the minimal space required for the necessary belongings—plus one small carry-on bag. The latter should be packed with the bare essentials for one night and one day without the suitcase, and include all important documents and medicines. Take only enough medicines for the trip—clearly labeled—leave extras at home.
You’ve read the hints about taking clothes in a basic color—black, gray, brown—a bare minimum of slacks and/or skirts; blouses or shirts that don’t require ironing; a wrap suitable for the climate; a good pair of walking shoes and/or boots and a pair of dress shoes if needed. Two pairs of jeans can take the place of all those if your itinerary allows. Plan to wear things several days and make basic outfits look different with colorful scarves, bandannas, ties, belts, or squashable hats.
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