Packing Travel Skills with Lisa Friend

There's one inevitable travel lesson you can choose to learn the easy way or the hard way: The first step to any great trip is packing light. Let tour guide and packing pro Lisa Friend show you how to pack for up to 40 days in just a carry-on bag. Lisa shares her favorite packing hacks, provides tips for different trip types, and even offers a live packing demonstration! Bring along your notebook and open your mind as Lisa guides you through the age-old Rick Steves' Europe ritual of packing light and right. #ricksteves #mondaynighttravel
LISA'S PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS
Rick Steves Rolling Carry-On store.ricksteves.com/shop/p/r...
Rick Steves Convertible Backpack store.ricksteves.com/shop/p/c...
Rick Steves Spinner Bag store.ricksteves.com/shop/p/c...
Rick Steves Velocé Guide Bag store.ricksteves.com/shop/p/v...
Rick Steves Copenhagen Crossbody Bag* made from recycled water bottles and exceedingly water resistant. Lisa uses this for her around town bag as it holds everything she needs for the day and will pass most museum’s size requirements store.ricksteves.com/shop/p/c...
* Learn more about the Rick Steves Climate Smart Bag Collection at www.ricksteves.com/shop/clima...
Rick Steves Classic Toiletry Kit (Lisa’s on the plane organizer) store.ricksteves.com/shop/p/c...
Rick Steves Money Belt (passport, driver’s license, credit/debit cards, majority of cash) store.ricksteves.com/shop/p/s...
Rick Steves Toiletry Kit store.ricksteves.com/shop/p/c...
Rick Steves Sleep Mask with good room for eye movement and doesn’t smear your mascara store.ricksteves.com/shop/p/s...
Eagle Creek two-sided packing cube (Lisa’s junk drawer) www.eaglecreek.com/products/p...
Tap Secret powdered dry shampoo - Amazon.com
Kurdene Wireless Portable Charger that works with Apple watch and MagSafe phones (Lisa traded speed of charging for price) - Amazon.com
4 in 1 Watch & Phone Charger Cable, Multi Charging Cord - Amazon.com
Loop earplugs us.loopearplugs.com/products/...
1Mii Bluetooth 5.3 Transmitter Receiver for listening wirelessly on airplanes - Amazon.com
AirRes Mini Cpap machine www.cpap.com/productpage/resm...
WANLIAN Flat Water Bottle - Amazon.com
• Planning a trip to Europe? You’ll find lots of free travel information at www.ricksteves.com/europe/
• Subscribe at goo.gl/l6qjuS for more new travel talks!

[@PacheGayd]

Thank you so much! I've watched/read at least 100 items on packing light, but the assumed first step is always to be a size 2. It is so good to see someone who looks like me make it work.

[@tlew9429]

Best comment ever!

[@_brandixx]

Agreed. Also not the exact same boring packing list of 10 crop tops, 1 pair of shorts, 37 bikinis, and mentioning “lululemon” every other item. I don’t even see the point of people making “long term packing” content anymore, it is virtually the same video 100 times.

[@coz7891]

​@@_brandixx So true. Couldnt have said it better. Thanks so much for your comment.

[@kathyearhart]

Thank you!! I was so stressed about packing light. Seeing everything you pack, how you pack it and being plus size like me was so helpful. Now I feel confident I can do it! Appreciate you sharing!

[@sheridanrobbins3956]

You should watch “It’s the Kellys” great plus size carry on KZbinr

[@filb]

I have converted myself to back packing, all I can say is that Merino wool shirts are a game changer, makes travelling with a backpack so easy too.

[@DarcySteele]

I just signed up today for the 21 day Best of Europe tour 🎉!! I’m going solo and it’s my first time but I know that Rick Steve tours will take care of me!

[@_brandixx]

Really thorough video. I love seeing all the essential items you’ve packed that are NOT just clothes. I am also a plus size carry-on only traveler, and I pack light-ish so all of my clothes fit on one half of my suitcase, but it’s all those extra necessities (especially the whole cpap set - I still haven’t invested in the travel version so I carry the WHOLE full size set up in my backpack) that end up causing panic on packing day! Thanks so much for sharing a realistic version of packing for those of us who have necessities that can’t be easily purchased or replaced on-site so they HAVE to come with you from home!

[@jkrieger2595]

Thanks Lisa. This is great! I especially loved seeing how you kind of quickly repack a few things for your flight and keep a little organizer for the seat - I do that too. I like your idea of the "junk drawer"! As for medications, I was thrown for a loop last year when I did a planned stopover in Doha, Qatar. I'm a nurse so I had diligently packed all my meds/supplements into nice organized little containers and then I just happened to double check something about entry into Qatar and low and behold, two of my prescription meds were actually BANNED substances there. At like 10pm the night before leaving I had to repack all of my meds into the original bottles out of fear. I was quite angry about the "banned" Rx since they are so common here in the west. I decided to just hide them. It is definitely something worth checking into when you are traveling to another country - especially outside of Europe. One of the meds I always travel with is like 2-3 doses of lorazepam (a benzodiazepine/controlled substance) that I sometimes never use but like to have in case of a panic attack related to flying. BTW, these panic attacks began because I was flying abroad during the 9/11 attacks :( I loved your suggestion about taking pictures of the bottles, the actual pills and of course the Rx numbers etc. on your phone. Thanks much!

[@ellybea68]

Thanks Lisa. Great video on packing light. I’m glad you mentioned all the other “stuff” we take with us aside from clothes and toiletries. My view is that you need to keep everything in your bag to a minimum but especially the other stuff. I have to keep reminding myself about this when I travel as I seem to accumulate “stuff” wherever i go. A brochure from somewhere, a map from the last place we were staying or a few tiny souvenirs like magnets or tea towels (I have collected them for years and have way too many!) My trick for managing bag clutter is to find a post office and send it all home. My husband and I travel for two or three months at a time so every week or two I declutter my bag and send anything I want to keep home so that it’s out of my bag.

[@pauletteh7578]

LAUNDRY HINT- use detergent SHEETS. I use them at home and they get my clothes clean in every load! Carry them in zip lock sandwich bags!!

[@afrtsfan]

Great tips and thanks for being so open to share everything you pack. Really helpful

[@nexusSix_237]

Love love love this video. I've probably seen hundreds and hundreds of packing videos since 2008 and yours is one of the best bar far. It's making it in my travel bookmarks list! Thank you so much

[@Riffman42]

I've been a carry-on convert for many years; it makes traveling so much easier. Also, I love your hair, Lisa!

[@paisleyhunter]

Her hair is beautiful!🎉

[@swtpea909]

Thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge and tips with us! Safe travels!

[@Magic65750]

You did a great job...thank you!

[@traceymarshall5886]

Thanks and we have followed rick steves travel tips on carryon luggage for 10 years now.

[@jeff1hh]

Excellent tips! Thank you, Lisa!

[@heatherk9807]

Thank you! Much needed for my family and first trip to Europe together!

[@laura_and_shanman]

Lisa - I love your packing video!! Some of us with 'bigger' bodies sometimes need to take our things (Bras/etc) that others may be able to buy easier - GREAT JOB on the packing!! What bag (luggage) do you use? Love it!

[@RickStevesTravelTalks]

Lisa's luggage and product recommendations are linked in the description!

[@theresatorres8957]

Thank you Lisa, you make it sound so easy I wish I could go traveling with you. Bon voyage!

[@taragibbons6616]

Excellent and very helpful video Lisa! You were a great host! Thank you!

[@annesmith8469]

Excellent Packing tips. This was very helpful. Thank you Lisa.

[@lisasproul8027]

This was awesome!

[@marakimou]

This was very helpful. I would enjoy having you as a guide. This is good info as I plan a trip to Norway!

[@SueKitto]

Hi Lisa thank you so much for this very useful video! :):)

[@veritasca24]

very helpful to see the content of what you pack and how you pack it. Thanks.

[@dayday8332]

Great information. Thank you so much!😎👍

[@Mindfulnessification]

This was great!!!! ♥️💫♥️

[@user-fk4gb3vc8e]

Terrific video, great hints.

[@pammedcalf5477]

Thank you! Great information

[@RENEESKATES]

Awesome video, thank you!

[@sarahmclean1039]

Loved this - real info from a real working traveller

[@cristinagoode8509]

Enjoyed very much 😅 thank you❤

[@shelbycollier3586]

This is great! I’ve been packing carry on only for years now and it’s so much less stress. I’m heading to Japan in a few months and plan on doing carry on only for that too!

[@leylamoossavi]

Love this!!thank you

[@dkguy1437]

You are amazing! Thanks so much for

[@californiaglo9666]

Awesome video. I have been traveling to Europe for over 20 years. Each year I pack less. I learned more tips from you. Thank you! I do use a carryon but check it in because I do not like to carry it around the airport. Lol

[@gamacaluso]

Thank u for your great presentation 👍

[@paisleyhunter]

This was so helpful!

[@prairietn1]

Great video!!

[@cayleyrawlyck4033]

I NEED MORE LISA!!!

[@lesliem9231]

This is so helpful!!!

[@debraticehurst2583]

Back packing around England I ran out of soap so went and bought some...the best soap I ever tried. I have never found it in any store at home. Next time I am over there I am buying a heap to bring home. Trying other nations toiletries is fun!

[@MsPersimmons]

Agreed, I bought some soap in Lake Como. When I showered with it I decided it smelled manly and passed it on to my husband. He loves it so much and so I bought him 3 bars for Christmas online. Also found my favorite skin cream in Rome and now order it online

[@carolhanson5941]

Thank you! What a great tip for my first trip to London😀

[@tlcmontana]

I just love your video and you are amazing too!

[@deidrebriggs]

Great talk!

[@tammysmith9087]

I saw how you pack your in flight meds, mask, etc. So glad you didn’t have an issue with combining all the meds in one bottle. I’ll be going to Italy next year and am trying to learn how to pack and was worried about packing all my medicine bottles.

[@kamillsap3155]

Excellent!

[@kathynoll7768]

You'd be fun to travel with, Lisa, I enjoy your dry wit. Thanks for putting yourself out there and making the vid.

[@lisafriend4508]

Thanks Kathy, I appreciate that very much.

[@truepeacenik]

I cracked up at the ironing comment! I’m a fan of misting with plain water and tugging out the worst offenders.

[@jandv]

Your Copenhagen Crossbody bag looks amazing!! I can't wait to get one when it's available!

[@RickStevesTravelTalks]

It's available now at store.ricksteves.com/shop/p/crossbody-bag!

[@carolinecorrigan7793]

Great packing tips. FYI in Australia carry on is limited to 7kg (airlines have recently started randomly weighing carry-on) as well as by size so you would definitely have to check your 19lb bag.

[@lisafriend4508]

Yikes 7 kilos is ultra light. Is that an airline or govt rule?

[@debraticehurst2583]

Most are airline rules and they also include your hand bag and coat or wrap if you are holding it. Basically anything you are not wearing.

[@leonagardiner9577]

@@lisafriend4508 JetStar...the bargain branch of Qantas has a 7 kg. limit for carry on and fare is a bit cheaper. Virgin Australia and Qantas have a carry on limit of 26 pounds so lesson I learned from the past is not to fly Jetstar.

[@rebageorgiadis3861]

Informative video. I sometimes use a fishing vest to store phone, battery pack, gum, lozenges, lip balm, kleenex, etc in the pockets. Helpful on those long intl flights where is darkened on the plane.

[@michellestevens2454]

Genius!

[@maryabreu6924]

lol I even do the wrinkle on all my cloths . Great video.

[@laura_and_shanman]

OMG - you made me laugh out loud with the 'water bottle' flask - LOVE THAT PART!!!!

[@samfrancis1394]

I was delighted recently in Italy where the washing machine at the laudromat included the soap and sanitizer in the price- the machine did it for me.

[@nativetexan6628]

I love Ab Fab soo much.

[@charleneware6574]

I am currently checking fares to Europe, and check on fees are around $75!! No way!! I've got a basic backpack that I am going to use. What I can't fit I will buy once I get there (souvenirs!!!)

[@entrophyentrophy9562]

Fabulous info. Thanks for sharing! Where can I find the water bottle you showed?❤😊

[@eclairtreo]

Prescription liquids are not part of your 311 bag, and can be sent through in a separate baggie. This includes disposable contacts and solutions for eyes etc.

[@reebeeable]

Thanks for this. I am always amused by people who bring makeup brushes and large make up bags. I am not a movie star so a tube of chap stick is plenty.

[@secretariatgirl4249]

This video popped up again and I watched it again...and checked out the link to the rolling backpack..I've spent HOURS looking for something ...and you know, that really looks good! The weight at 6.5 pounds is good compared to what I've been seeing! I do have a "brocade" suitcase that is the perfect size with the wheel/handle mechanism on the OUTSIDE not a spinner)! (like some very expensive bags)...but it's 8 lbs and I a bit worried about the "cloth" construction.

[@baskervillebee6097]

Did you know that Avon Skin So Soft repells mosquitos, and now days comes in individually wrapped wipes that includes sun screen?

[@chrissanders6819]

Question can I pack just my medicine in my daily pill planner and do.i.hsve to.bring all my pill bottles?

[@rupabhargava6650]

What kinds of pants do u travel with ! I find carrying jeans makes it heavy ! Any recommendations on brands ?

[@Traveler-nu8xc]

I enjoyed this but…I also need work out clothes and 1-2 dresses for fancier nights. I add different scarves to change them up.

[@johnmcclish2735]

Great honest presentation. Go lite or stay home!

[@juliecragholm7405]

Agree, love the honesty and being real and down to earth! Thanks!

[@nativetexan6628]

I couldn't quite figure out the little wire that connects to bluetooth earbuds. But i am excited about the little CPAP machine.

[@kirstenveneziano1205]

Thank you for a great video! It would be excellent if you shared links to some items so we can purchase them.

[@RickStevesTravelTalks]

Lisa's luggage and product recommendations are linked in the description!

[@jbowerdel]

What a small cpap machine! Mine is small but not that little! Curious as to what brand yours is and how happy you are with it! Thanks!

[@labramutt]

Can you share which travel CPAP you like? That seems like such a great option for traveling light!

[@RickStevesTravelTalks]

Lisa's luggage and product recommendations are linked in the description!

[@paulamiller4366]

Very good info! What would be very helpful is a list, with links, in the info section.

[@RickStevesTravelTalks]

Lisa's luggage and product recommendations are linked in the description!

[@RotaryTeamVincent]

Some good travel tips. Interested to know the make/model of your travel CPAP?

[@lisafriend4508]

Its a ResMed mini and so far, I have liked it a lot. I did buy the protective case for it and like that even more because I often separate the tubing from the machine and pack in different spots when I am changing hotels which I do every two nights when I am on tour, using up some of those nooks and crannies.

[@RotaryTeamVincent]

@lisafriend4508 Thanks. Been thinking of getting one.

[@amandareiche9083]

Will this pass the 22 lb/ even 17 lb limits on many airlines (non-European for some)????

[@jbowerdel]

What about getting the kindle version of the guide book?

[@Luvsquilting]

I would love the recommendation for the travel Cpap machine.

[@RickStevesTravelTalks]

Lisa's luggage and product recommendations are linked in the description!

[@stacyhenning7518]

Love that multi-use power cord! Can you provide a link to that product?

[@julierogers1155]

YES, please! (I was thinking it would have been great to have links for as many of Lisa Friend's product selections as possible)

[@stacyhenning7518]

@@julierogers1155 I think I found it on Amazon. I tried to post the link but must be breaking a YT rule? Look up Amasuki 3 and 2 charger, perhaps.

[@lisafriend4508]

Hi Stacy, thank you for watching and asking. I didn't mention the manufacturer because I don't feel like I've had that product long enough to see if it will stand the test of time. I got it not that long ago when I upgraded my iphone and the charging port switched to USB-C. I would go with best rated on Amazon.

[@dkguy1437]

I purchased on amazon

[@RickStevesTravelTalks]

Lisa's luggage and product recommendations are linked in the description!

[@reneeburich9497]

May I ask what Brandice the teal spinner bag is?

[@carolynspeedoftruth8093]

So helpful! Thank you! My biggest tip, and such an upgrade in life, is to invest in vision correction surgery. These surgeries have come a long way in our day. This has been the BEST money I’ve spent! Now I don’t worry about traveling with contacts/glasses. I wake up, open my eyes, and see! 🎉

[@user-qr5og5gg6i]

Hi very good info btw what's the brand name of your rolling backpack?

[@RickStevesTravelTalks]

Lisa's luggage and product recommendations are linked in the description!

[@sharone9751]

Loved your video! Quick question about your travel CPAP--is it noisy? Louder than your regular? I tried a Panasonic (since recalled) and it was louder than my regular. Thanks😊

[@lisafriend4508]

I think it might be a little louder, approximately 10% it I don’t notice it

[@lisafriend4508]

And thank you for the kind words

[@mhtammi]

“Hangovers…I mean jet lag.”😂

[@catamish9338]

I’m packing with this video buuuuuutttttt I have not been able to pair down to this! I’m working on it! lol! Gosh! I’m leaving in 5 days lol!

[@lisafriend4508]

You got this! Remember to pack for the best case scenario not the worst.

[@kamillsap3155]

Do you have a link to the toiletry bag you used for inflight necessities?

[@RickStevesTravelTalks]

Lisa's luggage and product recommendations are linked in the description!

[@reneeburich9497]

I have a 22” carryon, and I believe that’s what is allowed for most mainline domestic airlines, and I think a 22” is good for international with United… I hope so, otherwise I’ll have to purchase a 21”!

[@jodiehebert8285]

I haven’t traveled to Europe since 2006 and I am concerned about the amount of meds I have to take that I typically put in a pill organizer. I saw you combine them. Maybe I could do that in groups of 3-4 since I have about 10 scripts. Some hormones, some allergy etc among others. You say they do not notice the varying pills in one or two containers?

[@laura_and_shanman]

What portable charger is that? LOVE it!! (The one to use with your phone and watch) - GREAT job!!! Love love love this video!! Binder clips (medium) work great for Razor covers-fyi

[@RickStevesTravelTalks]

Lisa's luggage and product recommendations are linked in the description!

[@evie5200]

Very helpful video. What make is your carryon? I would like one I can toss around, also.

[@RickStevesTravelTalks]

Lisa's luggage and product recommendations are linked in the description!

[@christinestarr8192]

Great tips! Link for dry shampoo

[@lisafriend4508]

Hi, it’s called tap secret and I got it from Amazon during Prime day a year ago and really like it

[@janeparker-sn9mn]

Lisa….great show! Can you tell me the manufacturer for your travel cpap machine?

[@lisafriend4508]

Hi Jane, thank you so much! It’s an Air Res mini.

[@alisongardener4654]

Like ✔ Like ✔ Like ✔ Fabulous presentation - thank you so very much !

[@marshagalyardt6255]

Just wondering the brand of your small travel cpap machine. Thank you!

[@RickStevesTravelTalks]

Lisa's product recommendations are linked in the description!

[@nancycarlson7643]

I love your style! I am a plus size gal. My daughter told me i could put 2 pairs of jeans & a shirt in one small packing cube, i did it,! Unreal. I love your water bottle & didnt know about a travel CPAP! Do you pack a raincoat? Thanks for all the great tips.

[@lisafriend4508]

Yes, I had a red peacoat style raincoat on the back of my chair that I take on Spring and Fall trips.

[@sueprovostwilliams3824]

I’d be interested in how to find that bag made from the recycled plastic bottles. If you could link it ? Or share where to find it

[@RickStevesTravelTalks]

Lisa's luggage and product recommendations are linked in the description! Learn more about the recycled bag - part of the Rick Steves Climate Smart Bag Collection - at www.ricksteves.com/shop/climate-smart-bags

[@janetipper2509]

Im interested to know what type of CPAP machine you travel with and how much it weighs

[@lisafriend4508]

Hi, thank you for watching. It’s an Air Res mini and weighs about 2/3rds of a pound

[@theresatorres8957]

Hi fellow, travelers, does anyone have an answer for this? I was told I need a special type of connector for my hair dryer. Does anyone have the lowdown on this? Thanks in advance.

[@eclairtreo]

Don't bother. Every hotel has a blow dryer for you. But you would need a dual voltage for the EU. Americans are infamous amongst hoteliers for blowing out the hotel circuits, best just not to bring one at all and use the one they supply.

[@evelyngrammar]

I switched from a C-PAP to an oral appliance with great success and less hassle.

[@Riffman42]

My wife did the same.

[@lisafriend4508]

Hi Evelyn, please if you don't mind, tell me more. I'd love to not have to take even my mini cpap along.

[@samanthaguibord2798]

Yes, please! I’d love to know more about this oral appliance too.

[@Riffman42]

The one my wife has is called PreSomnus.

[@samanthaguibord4760]

@Riffman42 Thank you! I’m going to see if I can get that in Canada.

[@robinhayes4232]

Can you share a link to purchase the battery/watch charger?

[@RickStevesTravelTalks]

Lisa's luggage and product recommendations are linked in the description!

[@mariemalinchak1307]

Great video!! I could certainly pack light but then there is no room for souvenirs. What do others do??

[@lisafriend4508]

Oh Marie, thank you so much! I didn’t expand my suitcase or my Veloce shoulder bag, I had puh-lenty of room for souvenirs and I often check my bag on the way home in order to bring olive oil or wine etc.

[@mariemalinchak1307]

@@lisafriend4508 Thanks so much! Interesting about the expanding the suitcase b/c I've heard gate agents tell other people that they can't expand the suitcase--takes up too much room in the overhead compartment. So I've been hesitant to do that. But I may have to try....or, like you said, check the bag on the way home. Thanks for the tips! Great video!!

[@lisafriend4508]

@@mariemalinchak1307yes that’s right, if the rolling carry-on is expanded, it won’t be carry-on compliant anymore and you would have to check it. Which I do on the way home almost every time because of liquid souvenirs. The Veloce bag can be expanded and still fit under the seat.

[@TrashedPandaProductions]

What about cold weather outfits and rain jackets?

[@lisafriend4508]

Hi, I had my very warm black sweater around my shoulders for layering and my rain jacket was shown in the pictures and was on the chair behind me during the show. I can go from the Riviera to 10,000 feet in the alps with everything that I had with me.

[@Robin-gj7zw]

What is the name of the dry shampoo? That is so compact!

[@lisafriend4508]

It’s called Tap Perfect and thank you so much for watching

[@janetspernak1676]

What about the bottles of liquids like shampoo, conditioner, eye make up remover. Will I be able to pack those in my carry-on and not have to take them out?

[@lisafriend4508]

Hi, I put my liquids in a quart size plastic bag and send them through security separately

[@241JMJR]

Anything that pours or spreads is considered a liquid. Clear bag, packed in personal item to go through security

[@elsiealba-limas8408]

I am disabled and want to know if they have scooters for rent in Europe