Packing Light—And Right (NAPSA)—Theticket to enjoying smoother trips could be to packlight. That’s the advice from travel agents who say now that someairlines charge for checked baggage —and carry-on space has become increasingly limited—there are two kinds of travelers: those who packed light and those who wish they had. Fortunately, simple things, like making a packinglist and sticking to it, can help save space in your suitcase—plusthe list serves as a handy guide for repacking at the end of the trip and it can be beneficial in the unfortunate event of lost or stolen luggage. Try these additional packing tips from experts at the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA): Dress Smart When planning your wardrobe, consider the events you will participate in both day and night and write down a possible outfit for each activity. Cross-check this packing list to determine if one piece can cover multiple occasions. Pick clothes that coordinate well together, based around complementary colors. Forecast Fun Check the weather forecast of the destination and plan accordingly. Also, be sure to know the local traditions, where a T-shirt for dinner could be a serious blunder, or bare shoulders may bar your entrance into such places as St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. For almost all outdoor activities, take pieces that can be layered. Get A Kit Whenit comes to packingtoiletries, travel kits are always the A few tips can help you pack light and enjoy your trip. answer. Also, most personal toiletry items come in inexpensive travel sizes, so purchase these whenever you see them so as not to arrive with a half-empty bottle of your favorite hair gel. And don’t fill bottles up to the very top, for pressure inside the plane may force the contents to expand and overflow. Less Bling Is Better As a rule of thumb, don’t take jewelry that you couldn’t bear to lose, and leave behind the flashy pieces that could attract thieves. Keep makeup to a minimum to save space, and leave the perfume behind when scented lotions will workjust as well. Use The Tools You can visit the ASTA Website at www.travelsense.org to create your own packing list based on your destination, accommodations, weather, tour activities and num- ber of travelers. You can even print off a checklist or e-mail it to yourself. The site also includes a number of packing tips, as well as tips on planning a getaway.
