Five Things to Leave Behind when Packing for a Trip

If you are packing for a trip by air, with all the new regulations and extra fees for luggage, here are five items you can leave home without that may keep you from paying an extra bag fee.

Hair dryer - Almost every hotel now offers in-room hair dryers. The extra bulk of a hair dryer in your suitcase will free up enough space so that you can squeeze in an extra pair of sandals. Even if your hotel room doesn't have a hair dryer in the room, it is likely you can call the front desk and ask for one. In a pinch, if your room has an air conditioner, you can dry your hair over the vent with the air set for "warm" or "air only."

Umbrella - It is better to pack a small disposable raincoat with a hood than a bulky umbrella. The tiny travel size umbrellas are a nice convenience, but do very little in a serious windy downpour. In fact, even large ones have a tendency to flip inside out. You are better protected with a large hooded rain poncho that takes up the space of a sandwich in your bag. As an added bonus, these are usually only a few dollars and can be left behind if still wet when its time to return home.

Basic toiletries - Forget about packing shampoo, conditioners, lotion, and other generic toiletries. Your hotel will usually provide basic toiletries for you. If for some reason they don't, you can always buy them at your destination and skip the hassle of hauling them out for inspection at the airport.

Bulky sweaters - Opt instead for layers. Pack long sleeve, button-down shirts that can double as shorter sleeve when you roll the cuffs. Throw in a lightweight wool sweater and a thin windbreaker, these items take up much less room and will serve multiple purposes in a variety of situations. One other option is a wrap or poncho that can serve double duty on the plane since airlines charge a fee for blankets.

Bulky shoes and boots - If you must take a bulky pair of shoes or boots wear them on the day of your flight and kick them off while you are in the air, storing them under your seat. They will be more of a hassle at the security checkpoint--taking them off and on--but will save space in your bag. You can fit another outfit or two into the added space.

Source:
PhotoGirlStudio.com