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diff --git a/wired/old/published/How To Wiki/travel_light.txt b/wired/old/published/How To Wiki/travel_light.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..e35cbb2 --- /dev/null +++ b/wired/old/published/How To Wiki/travel_light.txt @@ -0,0 +1 @@ +It used to be that packing light was something only backpackers had to worry about, you know the hard-core types who, like John Muir, set off with just the clothes on their back, a few tea leaves and a sack of hardtack to last them through a two-week trip.
But with today's baggage fees and carry-on restrictions, packing light isn't just something to keep you unencumbered. With some airlines charging for even the first checked bag, If you can lighten your load down to a carry on, it'll stop the airlines fromlighten your wallet with their endless fees.
So it's the day before you big trip and you're staring at a collection of steamer trunks that would have made Imelda Marcos proud, how to you cut it down to something that won't cost an arm and leg when you get to the check-in counter?
Here's our guide to packing light.
== The Bag ==
This is one place that it's worth dropping some change. A good bag is essential and opting to save a few bucks on something cheap will seem like a really bad idea when you're at the side of the road with a torn bag, broken straps and a flimsy useless zipper.
The big question is, should you opt or a wheeled bag or a backpack?
The answer depends on the kind of traveling you're doing. If you're headed straight from the airport to a posh hotel room, or expect to primarily be on paved ground with your bag, then the wheeled options are for you.
If you plan to heading into the wilds, off the beaten pack or to countries where pavement is a relative unknown, wheels are going to be useless. The time-honored backpack is probably your best bet.
Whichever you decide is best for you, make sure it's a small enough bag to pass muster with airline carry on restrictions.
== Lightweight clothing ==
Unless you're headed to Sweden for Christmas, chances are you're bring too many clothes when you travel. When it comes to packing light, instead of thinking what do I need, think what can I do without.
One great way to minimize the weight and bulk is to bring less clothing and do a bit of laundry on the road. Most hotels offer 10day laundry service at a decent rate and if that isn't available, you can always spend ten minutes washing your shirt in the sink.
If you're going the hand wash route make sure to choose clothes that dry quickly.
The other alternative to over-packing on the clothes is to simply buy items when you arrive. Packing that favorite old t-shirt? Why bother, you'd be hard pressed to find a place on earth where you can't buy a cheap t-shirt once you arrive.
Finally, we know they aren't the hippest look around, but many of the lightweight fabrics and "convertable" clothing options from travel gear specialists really do work and save considerable room and weight thanks to their space age materials.
== Toiletries ==
Leave them at home. Once you step into the world of carry-on-only traveling, the TSA pretty much eliminates your toiletries thanks to fears about Liquids on a Plane.
Don't worry though, toothpaste, deodorant and the rest are easy to come by once you arrive. Chances are you'll run across some freebies in your hotel and, if not, you can always make a quick stop at a local pharmacy.
== Forget the electronics ==
Do you really want to check your e-mail while you're traveling? Laptops are heavy and chances are you don't need one. Use internet cafes or send good old-fashioned postcards instead.
If you're traveling for business and simply can't be without a laptop, consider one of the many ultra-portable netbooks on the market. They're lightweight and tiny, though depending on the size of your hands, you may have trouble with the smaller keyboard. If you've got big hands ("you know you're the one," er, sorry) consider a [http://howto.wired.com/wiki/Carry_Your_Desktop_Anywhere_with_Portable_Apps portable USB stick] with all your home data and apps stored and ready to use in any computer around the globe.
Another source of weight are all the converters and adapters you need to plug in most electronics. to par things down to only the essentials, see our [[Stay Plugged In While Traveling]] guide.
== Lists from the pros ==
Want a to see a list of what travel pros think are bare necessities for traveling light? The lists will vary depending on how militant the authors are about going lightweight, but for newcomers looking to slim from a full size bag to a single carry on, veteran travel author Rick Steve's [http://www.transitionsabroad.com/publications/magazine/0211/ricksteves_packlighttravelhappy.shtml Guide to Traveling light] is a good place to start.
For those looking to get a little more serious, check out the ReidsguidesAnother article on [http://www.reidsguides.com/t_pa/t_pa_packing_light.html The Fine Art of Packing Light].
Another widely regarded traveling light guru is Doug Dyment's [http://www.onebag.com/ One Bag] which is chock full of suggestions on how to lighten your load.
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