Monday, July 2, 2007

All packed!






Here it is, a picture of my packed carry on suitcase! This is a 19 x 8 x 16" size. I have everything I need in it, I hope! There are 4 tops to mix and match with 1 skirt, 1 pair of shorts, and 2 Capri pants. Enough underwear (I hope), sandals, hat, shopping bag, snacks, shampoo etc., slippers for relaxing at night, personal hygiene items, umbrella, and my notes and maps.


I'm so proud of myself. You should have seen the HUGE suitcase and carry on I took to Europe in 1999! And that was for 1 week. This will be for 3 1/2 weeks! In the photo above, you can see the small 1 litre (1 quart) bag you are allowed for carry on. It contains my shampoo, hand lotion, face soap, toothpaste and Polysporin cream. Everything has to be in a clear bag, and you have to load it into the bin at security. I always feel rushed in that line, so I hope I remember to do everything correctly. You have to remove your shoes and put them in the bin too.


I'm using the shopping bag while I'm in Europe, and also on the plane to hold my nibblies. I'm always very nervous when I fly. I don't like heights. Once I'm in the air I'm OK. I try not to think about the thousands of miles below my feet. I can get quite giddy doing that.
Here is my purse, which is very light weight. I paid $30 Cdn for this thing, so I hope it holds up. It's the lightest purse I've ever had. I've tried it out a few times, and it's quite comfortable. Some of those items will disappear on the plane. I'll use the eye shades and the wrist bands. The wrist bands really work for me. I get motion sickness and if I put those on my wrists 1 hour before we leave the house, I'll be fine. They use acupuncture and it works for me. There is one small plastic knob on the inside of each band, and it presses into the middle of my wrist and somehow magically gets rid of my nervous stomach. Cool, eh? If you click on the photo, it appears larger in your screen, and you can really see everything up close. Kit has her passport. My passport is in my money belt, along with my money. I will keep it on my body at all times. Did you know that you have to keep your passport on your person at all times while traveling in a foreign country? I just found that out.
Well, I think I'm all set! Can you think of anything I've forgotten?





7 comments:

Betty said...

I've been thinking about you and hope you have a safe and enjoyable trip. I know how long you've been looking forward to this vacation and hope the latest news doesn't put a damper on your travel plans. Remember, because of recent events travel is actually safer today than it was last week. Some of the heightened security will just be an inconveniece. Have fun! Don't forget to blog. Betty

Loretta said...

Thank you, Betty! I don't know if you'll see this post or not. I'm trying it out anyway, to see how it shows up. I notice that other bloggers reply to comments, so I will too, when I have time. I'm trying not to let the bomb threats get to me. I do feel safer though. I'm sort of worried about the long lines through security, but in the long run it's good.

Write 2 The Point said...

Loretta, looks like you have it all together. Do you have room to bring home your souveniers? I hope so, that is the best part. Looks like you are really traveling light as far as the clothing is concerned--i am really proud of you. I could never do it--i'd be lugging my crap on my back because I am such an overpacker! May God bless you on your wonderful vacation and I pray that you don't have to deal with too many delays with the heightened security--arrive early to the airport, that is my only advice to you!

Loretta said...

Karen, don't worry! I do have room for souvenirs because I'm not buying much! I also have my shopping bag that zippers shut on top, so I can bring small items back in that. My best souviners will be my photos. I'm not taking my camcorder. Can you believe that? Thanks for the well wishes.

Linda said...

Oh gosh, you are always SO organized!! I see the "California" shopping bag is on the pile, good plan, it holds a lot when you use it...I seem to remember calling it your "Mary Poppins" bag as everytime we needed something you pulled it out of there!! Have a wonderful time on this "trip of a lifetime" and don't forget to come home! And remember that secret tip I told you...buy lots of souviniers...and stash them in Robert and Matthews suitcases...they won't know the difference if you hide them way down at the bottom of their suitcases!! Take lots of photos, Hugs, Linda

Anonymous said...

I hope your trip is an awesome one. It should be, you have planned every detail so it will leave the time to explore and experience Europe. Good Luck keeping Robert on track for 3.5 weeks away from a computer! After 25 years you should be okay. Have a wonderful time creating great memories. I am looking forward to watching your journey. Janet Bond

Anonymous said...

Loretta I hope you have a ball. It should be lovely. Stay safe and take lots of photos. You sure do pack neatly...lol Patricia