Smart Packing Tips and More

I received an e-newsletter from my friend, Susan Foster, last week. Susan’s the author of Smart Packing for Today’s Traveler and a fellow Northwesterner.

Susan Foster

As the true expert in packing, she had lots of great tips and tidbits of information in her newsletter and I just had to pull a few and share them with you:

1. TSA is modifying the procedures associated with carrying breast milk through security checkpoints. Mothers flying with or without their child are now permitted to bring breast milk in quantities greater than three ounces as long as it is declared for inspection at the security checkpoint.

2. Are you flying to or from the UK, or changing planes there for another European destination? Many American travelers are shocked to learn mid-trip that only one carry-on item per person is allowed through UK airports. Period. And this is strictly enforced. Unlike the US where two carry on items are allowed – for example, a carry-on suitcase plus a purse or briefcase – the UK allows only one carry-on. This is true for travelers departing from or connecting through any UK airport. I simply tucked my small shoulder purse into my carry-on tote bag for my return trip.

This is a major problem for people who have been shopping while traveling and have expanded beyond the limits of their luggage. Pack an extra bag that can be checked if you plan to shop and carry home treasures. I have a sturdy tote bag that packs flat into the bottom of my suitcase that I can fill with soft, unbreakable purchases or dirty laundry and check for the return trip.

3. EasyJet, a large British low-cost airline that flies throughout Europe, will begin charging for all checked luggage on October 1, 2007. Each bag will cost about US$4 (£2) online or US$10 (£5) at the airport to a maximum combined weight of 44 pounds (20kg). A hefty fee per kilo (2.2 pounds) for excess weight is charged at the airport prior to departure.