Dealing with excess baggage
Embarking on a journey these days is no easy task when airlines have restricted the baggage allowance to what some people would take with them on an overnight stay. Since Filipinos tend to be natural hoarders, here are a few suggestions to keep luggage lean this summer season.
First things first. Once you’ve mapped out where you’re going, it’s best to check the weather for the days you will be gone to ensure you have the proper equipment. I usually check weather.com to clue me in on what kind of clothing I will need to prepare. Once you know what you are in for, making a master list is key to guaranteeing you have exactly what you need. Try not to deviate from the list and stay on track to avoid schlepping unnecessary effects. If you are going to attend certain events, be sure to have everything you need in tow.
Having a suitcase that weighs a ton is sure to drag you down. Investing in a lightweight shell to house your gear is well worth it. Any model will suffice but if you can save your moolah and score a Rimowa or the new lightweight Samsonites then you are set. Sometimes shoes weigh a ton so bury your inner Imelda and stick to a few basic pairs. In regards to bags, a day bag and a night bag should suffice. Packing solids that are easy to mix and match creates dozens of new looks in an instant. Depending on how long you are gone you can always repeat outfits. (Gasp! go the fashionistas but it’s truly quite practical.) The lazy bones that I am, I tend to pack clothes that don’t need much ironing. Rolling your clothes alleviates some of the folds that create wrinkles in your threads. If you’re using a larger suitcase, try laying your clothes out without having to fold them to prevent creases from forming. Once you get to your destination you should hang up your clothes right away to minimize wrinkles.
Stuffing smaller items in ziplock bags keep things intact instead of floating around your suitcase, messing up your packing plan. If you are going to a cooler climate, then wear your coat and scarf already instead of packing them away, adding to your overall weight. When I bring magazines along on a trip, I end up recycling them by giving them away so that other people can have a look at the mags which I am so glad to be rid of.
Going without electronics is tough but do you really need to heave those speakers along? Go for the smallest ones you can find or just listen to your iPod with earphones. Forget the hairdryer — the hotel probably has one and if you are staying with a friend then you can definitely borrow theirs. The one electronic thing to pack is a universal adaptor.
Traveling to a place with the intention of marathon shopping? I usually pack a foldable bag inside my suitcase to lug additions along but if you are really going for the gold you will most likely find a local Pinoy who can recommend a balikbayan box service. While prices may vary to send a box home, you can fill it with goodies and you don’t have to worry about how heavy it totals. Since they haul your boxes back home on ship and not by air, you can load up on colossal purchases. Though shipments take about a month, sending boxes is way cheaper than paying for excess weight when you fly. Plus they are door to door so you barely even have to lift the box yourself!
Always do a final edit to make sure you have everything packed away nicely and all the excess crap put back in your closets. If you are booked for the boonies, it’s imperative to have everything that you will need at hand. As a beauty junkie, it’s hard for me to be without my products of which I pour a little into travel-sized containers for trips. If you are going the posh route and your hotel offers coveted amenities then by all means, leave your shampoo behind. Should you be cruising the cities then you can pick up items you may have accidentally left behind. Always pack emergency medication wherever you go so that you never find yourself in a bind. No one ever wants to rough it out feeling ill.
Remember that the most essential item to pack is an open mind which should be the lightest of your load. Keeping a positive attitude and being receptive to what may come your way eases the burden of traveling. Life is full of surprises so kick back and relax. Bon voyage!
