Packing Travel Skills with Lisa Friend

[@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!

[@BrandiJess]

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]

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

[@wildsoul6720]

How refreshing to see a plus size realistic packing video! All I need now is a packing video for South East Asia….😊

[@nikkispeer9633]

Awesome!!! I learned a lot and laughed. Thank you Lisa!

[@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.

[@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.

[@sarahmclean1039]

Loved this - real info from a real working traveller

[@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!

[@afrtsfan]

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

[@staceybreeze9927]

Thank you thank you for the great video, insight and information! So valuable!! Appreciate the detail and the links.

[@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!

[@BrandiJess]

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!

[@Riffman42]

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

[@SimplyKatieWalks]

Her hair is beautiful!🎉

[@swtpea909]

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

[@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!

[@joannc147]

Totally AGREE with packing light! What amuses me is that whether a 4 day trip or 3 weeks, it’s the same amount of “stuff”🤣 I carried a backpack for my RS 3 week trip thru Italy. The soft backpack was easy on my back for the 20 min walk to the hotel on Lake Cuomo OR like a suitcase to maneuver thru trains or a vaporatto ride. I’m a fan of packing cubes as they make hotel stays so much easier.👍🏻 Now that I’m older, I’m sticking with a small wheeled bag. For me, it’s got to be light enough to lift into the overhead storage (🤣“kindness of strangers” is perfect comment by you). Thank you for the video, it’s still helpful to me even after all my travels. One really odd suggestion - bring 2-3 plastic grocery bags. Dirty laundry, trash, shopping bag and yes - it’s a decent vomit bag (how to be an INSTANT Best Friend when a fellow tour member gets sick on the bus🤮). Happy & Safe travels, everyone!

[@traceymarshall5886]

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

[@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

[@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

[@taragibbons6616]

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

[@cayLotus]

I NEED MORE LISA!!!

[@normairisflores3641]

You make so much sense, unless you are going to an area isolated from humanity, anything is available! I make it part of the travel experience to go to the laundromat in most countries I visit.

[@joannc147]

Great statement about “you can buy it there”. Frankly, learning this Travel Light info served me even when I traveled to Antarctica, boat trip thru Komodo/Borneo and a small boat excursion to Galápagos Islands - 🤣 no stores!

[@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😀

[@marakimou]

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

[@jeff1hh]

Excellent tips! Thank you, Lisa!

[@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!

[@theresatorres8957]

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

[@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.

[@heatherk9807]

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

[@patsyhadley5872]

You did great 👍 thanks this is the best video I've seen

[@lisafriend4508]

Thank you so much!

[@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!

[@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!

[@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!

[@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.

[@annesmith8469]

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

[@veritasca24]

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

[@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.

[@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!!

[@bearlycountry2406]

I use these and love them, so convenient!

[@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!

[@truepeacenik]

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

[@SueKitto]

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

[@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!

[@gamacaluso]

Thank u for your great presentation 👍

[@dayday8332]

Great information. Thank you so much!😎👍

[@PilarFrancisco-Saguil]

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!

[@Magic65750]

You did a great job...thank you!

[@RENEESKATES]

Awesome video, thank you!

[@leylamoossavi]

Love this!!thank you

[@Mindfulnessification]

This was great!!!! ♥️💫♥️

[@cristinagoode8509]

Enjoyed very much 😅 thank you❤

[@marykehoe-o8i]

Terrific video, great hints.

[@tlcmontana]

I just love your video and you are amazing too!

[@dkguy1437]

You are amazing! Thanks so much for

[@lisasproul8027]

This was awesome!

[@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.

[@pammedcalf5477]

Thank you! Great information

[@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.

[@laura_and_shanman]

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

[@megremisfamily4music]

Lisa, do you ever use compression packing cubes? Also, I’m intrigued that you didn’t use any packing cubes for your pants and tops. I’m assuming by tightly rolling them and using as your bottom layer in your suitcase, you use space more efficiently? Excellent podcast!

[@deidrebriggs]

Great talk!

[@chrissanders6819]

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

[@lesliem9231]

This is so helpful!!!

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@dannyh9010]

A tip I got was to use the “dirty duffle”. On the way home, put your dirty laundry in a cheap duffle bag and check that. Who cares if it gets delayed when you are back home! Put your souvenirs in your carry-on.

[@rupabhargava6650]

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

[@entrophyentrophy9562]

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

[@maxskouty3898]

As a professional RRT, in my opinion only, after hearing about your CPAP: you can get boiled water from the hotel, let cool, then use in the humidifier. After awhile the dried forceful air, especially near a weeks time, can(not) trigger dried membranes resulting in a nose bleed

[@frankyoung3626]

Any practical tips for someone who travels with a CPAP & wears hard-to-find sizes, like size 16 shoes (I’m 6’8”)? I can’t seem to fit everything in a carryon size bag and have given up. “Buy it there if you need it,” isn’t advice I can take, so we bring😊 “just-in-case” items. My wife (“only” 6’) & I are in our 70s and travel extensively for 3 weeks to 2 months at a time and we often incorporate a cruise as part of the trip. So occasional “dress-up” nights on ship and/or climate differences also require more wardrobe. We each have a 26” spinner bag that we check and a smaller backpack that we carry-on and stacks on top and allows us to still keep one hand free. Also, we only book lodging that has an elevator or offers ground floor accommodations. Have used luggage forwarding companies to ship a suitcase for the cruise portions of the trip but those have gotten very expensive. Some itineraries lend themselves to packing light, but if you’re going from Iceland to the Bahamas-or around South America-on one trip it’s been impossible to develop a single-suitcase strategy.

[@nativetexan6628]

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

[@johnmcclish2735]

Great honest presentation. Go lite or stay home!

[@juliecragholm7405]

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

[@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!

[@kamillsap3155]

Excellent!

[@maryabreu6924]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@SimplyKatieWalks]

This was so helpful!

[@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!

[@amandareiche9083]

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

[@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

[@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?

[@nativetexan6628]

I love Ab Fab soo much.

[@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.

[@Luvsquilting]

I would love the recommendation for the travel Cpap machine.

[@RickStevesTravelTalks]

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

[@prairietn1]

Great video!!

[@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.

[@jbowerdel]

What about getting the kindle version of the guide book?

[@prewary]

If we do laundry at the hotel we wash clothes in the shower and stretch the braided clothing line over the shower or bathtub tiled area.

[@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.

[@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

[@marshagalyardt6255]

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

[@RickStevesTravelTalks]

Lisa's product recommendations are linked in the description!

[@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!!!)

[@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!

[@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! 🎉

[@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

[@heatherg6939]

I just got back from a Christmas market trip to France on Air France. It was SO HOT & NO AIR VENTS!!! I thought I would die! I’ve been sick for almost 3 weeks and I believe that was a contributing factor👎🏻

[@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.

[@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

[@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”!

[@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

[@fargosnow994]

Just as a note: many prescription medications in the US are not prescription in other countries. I live in Mexico and have no prescriptions for the meds I take. I have photos of the labels of all my meds on my phone, more for myself when I need to buy more. In five decades of traveling I have never been questioned about my pills.