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Travel Tips

Packing "Ultra-Light"

"LESS IS MORE" is Marlene Hall's motto.

Ms. Hall, formerly of the big island, wrote last yr that she and husband Martin (then 66) "floated on and off trains with 12 lb. back-packs while they watched others struggle. Several readers wanted to know how they did this..........So we zipped off a note asking her. Here is Marlene's formula for "Ultra-light" packing— "but very boring dressing".

Marlene Hall's List

 

   In Their Packs

  • 5 pairs underpants
  • 1 bra
  • 5 pair cotton sox 3 pair black     slacks
  • 5 black tee shirts
  • 2 silk scarves
  • 1 sweater
  • 2 pair p.j.s
  • plastic bag for dirty clothes
  • ziplock with makeup, shampoo,   soap, vitamins/pills,
  • throwaway plastic gloves for     clothes washing

   On Their Backs

  • Black slacks
  • tee shirt
  • jacket with hood     in collar
  • my ONLY pair of   shoes
  • 2nd bra
  • money belt
  • underwear, etc.

  • NO PURSE—"I Velcroed pockets & carried cash and credit cards therein."

        My husband took essentially the same things—but multi colored. We didn't want to look like twins. He took and wore 5 cotton shirts instead of tees, and his underwear was silk which weighed less than my cotton ones. We took NO ELECTRICAL appliances as Rick recommends. We never "party" so never take dress-up clothes.

     I know this is boring dressing—but it really freed me. I never had to determine each day's outfit and I don't think anyone noticed my wardrobe never varied. To anyone who thinks they can't give up clothes & luggage—RECONSIDER! Your trip is about letting go--of focusing on the trip—the way you want to travel. If dressing up is an integral part of this equation—then you'll probably be stuck with humping heavy cases, struggling and sweating through airports, on and off trains, as well as up hotel stairs. On the other hand, if you are want the experience of just being there and sampling that country's everyday life--then, "Walk tall and try back-packing "ultra light". You'll feel 20 yrs old again! Marlene Hall --Eurekas, CA.

     I'm so glad my note found you in your new home in CA. Look forwad to hearing about your next Europe adventures. And Lorene Leong--thanks for nudging me into getting more details.      Mele Fujiwara

Cold Weather Packinging Tips:   Great Britan in March  

   Mele's Packing Check List

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