The countdown has begun.
We are returning to Europe – and all the lovely countries within – for our third extended visit. Like our previous two trips, we will be camping our way across multiple countries by purchasing a used camper van in Utrecht, NL.
Now though, we are making lists and checking them twice, trying to cover all our bases as we prepare to be gone for an indeterminate time.
Our baggage allowance per person is 50 lbs for check-in and 13.222 lbs for carry on. We bought 2 rolling duffle bags and own two smaller carry-ones. I have been googling how to pack for longer trips using only a carry-on bag: Use packing cubes and take 7 tops, 4 pants, a dress or skirt, 3 pairs shoes, sweater and coat and make sure they can all work with each other.
I have been packing and re-packing my bags trying to eliminate frivolous clothing and necessary misc. items, but I am going to be gone for far longer than these websites suggest, and I NEED A GREATER VARIETY OF CLOTHES TO WEAR!!!! I have 12 tops, 8 pairs of pants (skort/jeans/capris), leggings (winter/summer), 4 prs shoes, 4 outer wraps (2 sweaters, rain and 2 jackets), one dress and a bathing suit.
We bought 2 large and 2 medium sized packing cubes from Amazon which have been of immense help. I’ve packed all my tops in the medium cube and pants and leggings, bathing suit and sweater in the large one.
We also have a variety of electronics and accessories as well as items to help supply our camper van that must come with us.
The bottom line is this: my duffle bag weighs 48 lbs and my carry on bag weighs 12 lbs. I have a 3 lb. cushion!
Bruce hasn’t begun to pack yet and I can’t wait to see how he does.