| These days, when student travel groups set out for | | | | carry at least one change of clothes and a |
| any destination by air, it is both practical and | | | | toothbrush in the carry on bag. |
| economical to travel light. Many airlines have begun | | | | Make lists: A packing list is always helpful. It can help |
| applying new lower minimum weight requirements | | | | the student traveler to focus on what is needed, |
| that average 75 pounds per bag for transported | | | | instead of adding extra items that will not be used. |
| baggage. If bags exceed this limit, additional fees | | | | Make sure only necessary items make it to the list. |
| may apply. | | | | Select Clothing Appropriate for Climate: When |
| The trick for many student travel groups is to pack | | | | packing, be aware of the climate or potential |
| light when planning the initial trip and when making a | | | | weather conditions at the destination. Pack essential |
| return, avoid carrying an excessive amount of | | | | clothing (and coats) accordingly. Wear bulkier items |
| souvenirs. If heavier souvenirs are purchased, then | | | | such as coats on the plane, to save space and |
| the student or chaperone may want to consider | | | | weight in luggage. Roll underwear and place inside |
| shipping items instead of bringing these items on | | | | shoes to save space. |
| board the return flight. | | | | Limit shoes to two pair: One pair of shoes is worn on |
| The practice of carrying one bag only works | | | | the plane. Pack another pairs of shoes and that's all. |
| especially well on 3-5 day student trips. Some airlines | | | | Make sure both pairs of shoes are comfortable |
| are even beginning to add extra charges for the first | | | | walking shoes. |
| bag and additional bags; some only charge for extra | | | | Pack Trial Size Body Care Items: Try to shop ahead |
| luggage. | | | | and obtain trial size toothpaste, mouthwash, soap, |
| Encourage students to limit their possessions to one | | | | shampoo and hair care items. This saves space in |
| piece of luggage for the trip and a carry-on item | | | | baggage and makes bags lighter. Put all liquids in zip |
| such as a backpack, handbag, or laptop bag for items | | | | lock bags and take an extra zip lock bag for a wet |
| they may need easier access to on board. | | | | bathing suit or towel. |
| Following are several other packing tips I would like | | | | Prescription Drugs: Prescription drugs, especially |
| to share with those taking student trips this year and | | | | diabetes medications with syringes, should be in |
| next. | | | | pharmacy prescription bottles. |
| Select a good piece of luggage: Do NOT select a | | | | Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses: Make sure to bring |
| suitcase that's overly large. Instead, opt for | | | | protective eyeglass cases, as well as spray and cloth |
| something medium sized that has wheels and a | | | | for care. Bring just enough disposable contacts (with |
| handle for easy transfer. A lightweight bag would be | | | | maybe one extra) for short trips to save space, or |
| canvas or nylon. Leather bags are going to be heavy. | | | | smaller amounts of contact lens cleaner to save |
| If the class trip is three days or less, students may | | | | space and weight in baggage. |
| be able to get by with just a carry on bag and a bag | | | | These packing tips are designed for the student |
| to stow under the seat. Check with airlines for | | | | traveler who may be new to the idea of traveling |
| regulation sizes for carry on baggage to eliminate a | | | | afar. Yet these advance planning ideas for trips are |
| potential luggage charge. | | | | essential for saving money and making transfer of |
| Tag Luggage: In the event that a piece of luggage | | | | baggage easier. |
| could be lost, place a name and an address inside | | | | In the interest of economy, security, and ease of |
| each checked-in and carry on bag. Make sure to | | | | travel remember to go light on class trips. |