A book review of Pack Light: Quick & Easy Tips for Traveling Everywhere with Exactly the Right Stuff
By Geri L. Dreiling
Three years ago, I read Pack Light. In this easy-to-digest eBook, travel writer Karen McCann shares her strategies for taking long trips — even ones that last several weeks – with just a small carry-on suitcase. I was about to go to Madrid, so I decided to test her advice.
I was glad that I did.
At the end of my getaway, the international leg of my journey was delayed. Therefore, when I landed in the United States, I had already missed my connecting flight. The airline gave me two options. I could take a plane that left in about 30 minutes, or I could wait for one that would depart in about four hours.
I’d carried my luggage with me. That meant I didn’t have to wait at the international baggage carousel. Because I was able to skip that extra step, I was able to move through the security line while most of the other passengers were still waiting for their luggage. And I was able to catch that earlier flight.
Since then, I’ve made packing light my mantra.
Before you head out on your summer vacation, I recommend reading Pack Light: Quick & Easy Tips for Traveling Everywhere with Exactly the Right Stuff. McCann shares 22 tips for smart packing, and she provides a sample packing list. Her advice covers:
- Luggage
- Clothes
- Footwear
- Toiletries
- Gadgets
- Useful Products
McCann isn’t a fan of backpacks because they can be hard on one’s back. However, I will admit that when I take three-day trips, I prefer using a backpack.
And here’s one of my own tips. If you’re an international traveler who uses an Android device, you may want to consider switching your cell phone carrier to Google’s Project Fi. The service works in the U.S. and will allow you to roam in many countries without incurring extra roaming or data charges.
What travel resources do you like? What travel tips would you add?
Geri Dreiling 