One-bag, carry-on, light travel tips, techniques, and gear

In case you didn’t see it in the OBOW Forum, here’s another excellent packing list. This time from Max:

I was looking over a packing list from Paul, and was reminded of this one of mine. I hadn’t thought much about it since I have not been travelling much for work lately. However, when I do it is often for 3-4 days, domestically only these days.

For the bag, I like to use a Jansport Superbreak Tote in brown and tan, bought at TJ Maxx or Marshall’s for around $15. I like it because it is approximately 18 x 12 x 6, and can usually fit under the seat. The main drawback is that the thing does not unzip flat, but that’s not too bad. I usually use one cube or sometimes an Eagle Creek packing folder.

I like to wear this:
Blazer or sports coat. I like to use either navy blazer or a neutral color that’s easily coordinated with.
Wool slacks (probably tan or grey)
Oxford shirt, typically blue or white
Under shirt (cool max type)
Under wear (usually ex officio style)
Socks (nothing fancy)
REI braided fabric belt that doesn’t need removal at security
Loafers (usually cordovan color for easy coordination)

Pack In the main Pocket:
In the folder or cube:
2 oxford shirts
1 pair wool trousers
1 Long sleeve t-shirt for use in hotel room
Silk pajama pants (they pack very small, and I like to have them on hand since I find most hotel rooms quite cold)
Jogging shorts, usually C9
1-2 under shirts doing double duty as jogging clothes
1-2 dress socks. Most always maroon, so I don’t worry about matching.
1-2 underpants. Ex officio mainly, though I have a couple of Patagonia boxer shorts that I like.
1-2 jogging socks

Also along are a brick laptop wedged in the bag, along with the cord and a small mouse.
Glasses
Paper back book for fun

Liquids Baggie:
Contact lens solution
Razor (some times Avid 4, some times Schick disposable)
Shaving lotion
Tooth brush/tooth paste
Dental floss
Deodorant
Stink Fighter type supplies, though some times I use the single-pack Penguin Sport Wash

In the bag’s outer pocket:
Saucony Grid A2 racing flats. They are very light weight and pretty smushable.
Shower shoes, the $1.99 Walgreens ones

I will modify how many sets of undergarments depending on how much I feel like sink-washing them. For the work clothes, I like to use Lands End for shirts and trousers because they look nice and don’t break the bank. I typically buy the shirts on overstocks for around $15, and the pants for less than $30. That way, if there are any wardrobe malfunctions it’s not a big loss. All packed up, this probably weighs around 12 pounds including the dreaded lap top.

Also, if I am going somewhere cold, then I will usually take a little larger bag such as Patagonia MLC, and include the proper cold weather clothing, both for going to work and for working out.

Keep ‘em coming OBOWers - everybody loves a good list.

Update on March 27, 2009 by

Frank@OBOW

And here’s more good reader content - tips from Joelle:

Ever since I used to fly standby back in the day I’ve been a fan of one-bagging it in a small carryon. Interestingly, my Andiamo carry on from the 1980s is still comfortably under the limit at 21x13x8 and meets Doug Dyment’s standard of Cordura with YKK hard toothed zippers. Bags like this are a great buy on eBay if you can find them.

I came to the conclusion early that I did not want added stress before an important meeting and still less on vacation, so I resolved to travel with less. I’ve never regretted my decision.
The only specialist gear I buy is Tilley underpants and socks—wear one, carry one. For winter travel I search the sales for silk undies and cashmere sweaters, both compact, lightweight and odor resistant. I also pamper myself with Lush solid shampoo—Godiva is a great shampoo and conditioner in one 2 oz bar that can also be used for hand laundry.

Even though I just ordered a Tom Bhin shoulder strap, I still believe it’s what you take with you in your bag that makes or breaks your trip.