Travel Products - Top 10 travel products, from people that really travel?

A combo USB drive and money clip? Flashlights? Vacuum packed bags to save space? Why do I feel like travel writers no longer get out from behind their keyboards and actually travel?

This NYT article by the 'Frugal Traveler' just lessens my trust in travel writers.

http://frugaltraveler.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/07/21/top-10-travel-gadgets-under-50/#comment-57009

NYT: Top 10 Travel Gadgets Under $50</a>

Thoughts?



**I think this post fits here, but since its referencing a news article, maybe newsstand? I'll let the moderator make the call**

I like how his #1 gadget is a multitool. He obviously doesn't fly with just carryon luggage. He may be able to fit a month's worth of clothing into one of those vacuum bags, but I bet his suitcase exceeds the weight limit.

Here's a clickable link:

http://frugaltraveler.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/07/21/top-10-travel-gadgets-under-50/#comment-57009

And I agree, having read the list, there's nothing there I'd add to my packing list.

I do write about travel products, and yes - that list is quite useless.

The Belkin surge protector for going abroad? Good idea, except it only works on 110V

The Leatherman? Seriously? You'd have to check bags, and checking bags doesn't seem very "frugal"

The Gorillapod is decent, but if you plan to travel frugal, you might as well just ask someone to help take photos, or buy a generic $4 version online somewhere else.

I have a feeling the writer did not actually test/review any of the stuff in that lineup, which seems all so common nowadays :(

I agree with everyone's comments, the Top 10 list is pretty silly. I will add one thing, though: I always travel with a small camera tripod, an UltraPod II. Cheap and very light and it makes a BIG difference taking pictures at night, etc. There's a velcro strap that allows you to strap it onto railings, poles, etc.

http://www.pedcopods.com/

(My only connection to them is as a very satisfied customer.)

The Gorilla pod is bulky and doesn't work as well, IMO.

I like how his #1 gadget is a multitool. He obviously doesn't fly with just carryon luggage. He may be able to fit a month's worth of clothing into one of those vacuum bags, but I bet his suitcase exceeds the weight limit.

Actually, a multitool is essential in my pack. I have two leathermans (the original and a skeletool) and a cheap one from Muji which has a corkscrew. When I travel it's for work, I have checked luggage and my line of work requires me carrying multitools.

Yeah, that list is not good. Let's see if we can do better. Here are my suggestions in the order they come to mind.

1. A good bag: suitable for the purpose in volume, weight and function.
2. A good sports coat, anorak or overcoat.
3. Swisstech Utili-key as knife and screwdriver replacement.
4. A small flashlight on a carabiner inside the bag. Should work on AA batteries.
5. A reliable pen. Preferably Fisher Space Pen.
6. A notebook. Moleskine has a little pocket, Rite Rain writes even when wet.
7. Eagle Creek shirt folder
8. In-flight bag with a carabiner for all the little stuff you need at the seat.
9. Humangear Go-toob or nalgene bottles for repackaging liquids.
10. Schick Quattro Titanium razor with trimmer because it can keep the contours and side burns properly groomed without the need to take a full weight trimmer.
11. Shaving oil (for super low weight, use conditioner in hotel)
12. Flexo laundry line and universal sink stopper.
13. Quick drying clothes.
14. Reversible clothes.
15. Wrinkle, stain resistant and hand-washable clothing. Non-iron shirts.
16. Safety pins (mostly for closing hotel curtains properly)
17. A sample credit card to use in hotels with CC-operated main switches.
18. Ear plugs (super important)
19. Eye mask
20. An excellent shoulder strap for your bag e.g. Optech SOS (aka Tom Bihn Absolute), Briggs and Riley strap, The Claw.
21. A flashdrive with back-up data of your travel documents.
22. A list of phone numbers to call if you lose your wallet. Kept separately. :)
23. A small amount of duct tape wrapped around a pen; for quick repairs.
24. zip ties in color to "lock" your luggage. TSA normally only has black ties on hand. You will notice if it is replaced. Alternatively, TSA locks but only those with a Search Alert function, so you can see if your bag has been opened. A colored lock and zip tie also help identify your luggage on the baggage belt.
25. A sturdy luggage tag filled out only with J. Doe (No full first name, no MR/Mrs), destination or office address and cell phone. It should have a cover so that bystanders cannot read it.
26. Don't forget the tag inside your luggage in case the outside tag does get torn off.
27. Slip-on shoes that go with business AND leisure outfit and contain no metal.
28. A local newspaper for blending in and getting the local info.
29. A decoy wallet to throw away and run. Only for really dangerous areas.
30. A foldable back-up bag that can serve as a daypack/backpack but can also be checked in case you make extra purchases. Kiva and Totes make those.

Pick your fave ten!

Till

A good bag: suitable for the purpose in volume, weight and function.

Tough one - I have so many bags :) Tom Bihn usually wins though.

2. A good sports coat, anorak or overcoat.

I use a ScotteVest jacket or vest -lots of pockets = less weight in my bag, and nobody notices it :)

3. Swisstech Utili-key as knife and screwdriver replacement.

Awesome product - and always passes the TSA without any hassle


4. A small flashlight on a carabiner inside the bag. Should work on AA batteries.

I carry a flashlight in my SwissFlash and a backup Duracell Daylite

5. A reliable pen. Preferably Fisher Space Pen.

I use the Rotring Quattro - pen, pencil, highlighter and PDA stylus in one


9. Humangear Go-toob or nalgene bottles for repackaging liquids.

I LOVE the GoToob's - pricey, but an awesome product


11. Shaving oil (for super low weight, use conditioner in hotel)

17. A sample credit card to use in hotels with CC-operated main switches.

AWESOME tip - thanks!

18. Ear plugs (super important)

Or good noise isolating headphones


21. A flashdrive with back-up data of your travel documents.

As above - SwissFlash Flight - 8GB, pen, light all in one

Other products I really like:

Backup battery pack (like the Callpod Fueltank or the Tekkeon MP1800), Plenty of (Tom Bihn) packing cubes, spare ziploc bags and a variety pack of wipes from LaFresh.

Answers in RED.

A good bag: suitable for the purpose in volume, weight and function.

Tough one - I have so many bags :) Tom Bihn usually wins though.
Definitely a good choice.
2. A good sports coat, anorak or overcoat.

I use a ScotteVest jacket or vest -lots of pockets = less weight in my bag, and nobody notices it :) Yes, I am thinking about that. The problem for me was that the Scotevest jackets are not long enough to cover a suit. Otherwise I'd be very interested.

3. Swisstech Utili-key as knife and screwdriver replacement.

Awesome product - and always passes the TSA without any hassle


4. A small flashlight on a carabiner inside the bag. Should work on AA batteries.

I carry a flashlight in my SwissFlash and a backup Duracell Daylite

5. A reliable pen. Preferably Fisher Space Pen.

I use the Rotring Quattro - pen, pencil, highlighter and PDA stylus in one
I use a quattro pen by Lamy, same thing basically. Before that I had the Rotring but the retraction mechanism broke after ten years of use.

9. Humangear Go-toob or nalgene bottles for repackaging liquids.

I LOVE the GoToob's - pricey, but an awesome product
Well, yeah, a bit pricey. But these things are so great I use mine at home, too.


11. Shaving oil (for super low weight, use conditioner in hotel)

17. A sample credit card to use in hotels with CC-operated main switches.

AWESOME tip - thanks!
That's something I learned here on FT in the hotel AC control thread. So I am just passing it on. The amount of info on this forum is crazy!

18. Ear plugs (super important)

Or good noise isolating headphones
Indeed. For me though, the earplugs are better and more comfortable for sleeping not only on the plane but also at the hotel.

21. A flashdrive with back-up data of your travel documents.

As above - SwissFlash Flight - 8GB, pen, light all in one
That is very nifty. Thanks for the tip.

Other products I really like:

Backup battery pack (like the Callpod Fueltank or the Tekkeon MP1800), Plenty of (Tom Bihn) packing cubes, spare ziploc bags and a variety pack of wipes from LaFresh.

I acknowledge that my tip list is a bit jumbled. I should have categorized it into stuff like luggage, clothing, gadgets.

Till

29. A decoy wallet to throw away and run. Only for really dangerous areas.


Wow, remind me not to travel with you! :)

Looking at the times list I agree on a couple. Particularly I always travel with a Moleskin notebook and a flashlight or two. And that Fenix flashlight is a great buy. I usually have a Surefire or Streamlight flashlight or two, though, because Im a beamhead as part of being a Gadget Freak. :)

Wow, remind me not to travel with you! :)

Im scheduled to go to Manila this fall. Note to self. Buy extra wallet ;)

The Belkin surge protector for going abroad? Good idea, except it only works on 110V(

I love my Belkin, especially for the USB ports. But yeah, the bulk of my travel is US\Canada.

The LED flashlights are cool, but I’m still partial to my AA MagLite. You can unscrew the head and it acts as a artificial candle. It also has key ring so I have a ski pass lanyard (https://www.silverfoot.com/store.php?crn=242&rn=452&action=show_detail) attached to it. I can walk around in the dark but have my hands free.

17. A sample credit card to use in hotels with CC-operated main switches.


OT, but where do they have this? I've never heard of such a thing before.

OT, but where do they have this? I've never heard of such a thing before.

I come across them in older hotels. Last one I saw that used it was in Niagara Falls. They are out there, and they are a pain in the ....

I come across them in older hotels. Last one I saw that used it was in Niagara Falls. They are out there, and they are a pain in the ....

What's the point of needing a CC though? Do they charge the CC if you use too much electricity?

If what you mean is just those slot thingies in older hotels, just asking for an extra key solves the issue, so no need to carry a sample credit card around.

OT, but where do they have this? I've never heard of such a thing before.

I seem to recall seeing them in Europe as well.

I think any type of card with a mag strip will work. One time I came across a locked vestibule where a bank ATM was. A sign indicated that swiping the ATM card in a slot would release the electric lock on the door. Just for fun, I tried my hotel key card and I got in.

What's the point of needing a CC though? Do they charge the CC if you use too much electricity?

If what you mean is just those slot thingies in older hotels, just asking for an extra key solves the issue, so no need to carry a sample credit card around.

It's similar to the kiosks at the airport where your get your thermal paper boarding pass: you could use your frequent flyer card, your driver's license, a credit or debit card, basically anything with a mag stripe with your info on it. I found this out when I accidentally swiped my UA MP frequent flier card when I was flying on AA! :D

What's the point of needing a CC though? Do they charge the CC if you use too much electricity?

If what you mean is just those slot thingies in older hotels, just asking for an extra key solves the issue, so no need to carry a sample credit card around.

Well, to be honest - most of the ones I've seen were not that smart - they are just a card slot with a switch inside. The idea is that you stick your room key in it to turn the lights on.

OT, but where do they have this? I've never heard of such a thing before.

Virtually everyplace I have stayed in Japan needs a room card, which is the same size roughly as a credit card, inserted in a slot to power on the room electricity. Its an energy saving thing. I see it a fair amount in the US too. More in Europe than the US, less in Europe than in Japan.

The keycard switch has two advantages in principle. 1. You always know where your room card is (they usually use the room card). 2. It is energy and time saving because it will turn off all the lights and appliances.

It will not book anything of your card. It is normally just a mechanical switch. Even a cardboard card would work. More refined versions need a magnetic strip. Some might also let the front desk know if you are in or out. They can then send housekeeping to do their work without disturbing you. I actually like that system.

The problem is that some are too restrictive. They turn of EVERYTHING. So if you want to leave a battery charger plugged while you are gone or you want to leave the AC on to return to a cool or warm room, you are out of luck. Thus you trick the system with a card that has no particular value but can activate the switch.

I wish I had a decoy wallet when I was mugged by two young gangbangers in Paris. I was living there, not a tourist. I'd put around $20 in there. That should be enough to settle their greed, at least in the third world. But I have heard of stories in Paris where those youngsters just gather up around you in the metro and tell you they really like your watch or leather jacket. Nice, no? :(

Till

A combo USB drive and money clip? Flashlights? Vacuum packed bags to save space? Why do I feel like travel writers no longer get out from behind their keyboards and actually travel?

This NYT article by the 'Frugal Traveler' just lessens my trust in travel writers.

http://frugaltraveler.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/07/21/top-10-travel-gadgets-under-50/#comment-57009

NYT: Top 10 Travel Gadgets Under $50</a>

Thoughts?


What a useless set of gadgets!

Here are a few that always seem to make my packing list:

1. I think the exofficio quick-dry boxers are now top of my list - regardless of travel for work or vacation these allow for great space saving when you're packing. Not sure if underwear qualifies as a "gadget" :p

2. The Tilley Hat. Good for sun and rain, plus it's got a secret pocket in the roof of the hat where you can stash credit card and cash in case of emergency. Apparantly girls think it's dorky, but I guess I'm a dork anyways!

3. Nokia E71 world phone. Got it for under $50 bucks from my carrier, and now that it's unlocked I can take it anywhere and just pop in a local SIM card for instant email, web surfing etc. Invaluable.

Virtually everyplace I have stayed in Japan needs a room card, which is the same size roughly as a credit card, inserted in a slot to power on the room electricity. Its an energy saving thing. I see it a fair amount in the US too. More in Europe than the US, less in Europe than in Japan.

I didn't question the room key card slots - I've seen plenty of those, and as I said, asking for a second key solves the problem. The poster who first mentioned implied credit card operated slots, which is what puzzled me.

I didn't question the room key card slots - I've seen plenty of those, and as I said, asking for a second key solves the problem. The poster who first mentioned implied credit card operated slots, which is what puzzled me.

Sorry, I interpreted it that they were a bit unclear as to what they said and that it just meant a generic card. Yes, a second room key solves that but I often forget to ask.

What a useless set of gadgets!

Here are a few that always seem to make my packing list:

1. I think the exofficio quick-dry boxers are now top of my list - regardless of travel for work or vacation these allow for great space saving when you're packing. Not sure if underwear qualifies as a "gadget" :p

2. The Tilley Hat. Good for sun and rain, plus it's got a secret pocket in the roof of the hat where you can stash credit card and cash in case of emergency. Apparantly girls think it's dorky, but I guess I'm a dork anyways!

3. Nokia E71 world phone. Got it for under $50 bucks from my carrier, and now that it's unlocked I can take it anywhere and just pop in a local SIM card for instant email, web surfing etc. Invaluable.

The Tilley hat is a great suggestion. I have a couple of them.

I didn't question the room key card slots - I've seen plenty of those, and as I said, asking for a second key solves the problem. The poster who first mentioned implied credit card operated slots, which is what puzzled me.

I should have said a "credit card-sized card". Sorry for the confusion. I meant the size and not the money debiting function of such a card.

Now back on topic everybody!

I find the Tilley practical but waaaay to dorky. A Kangol or basque hat would be better. There are also crushable fedoras made of Teflon-treated wool felt for less than $40. These things even look good.

Till

I should have said a "credit card-sized card". Sorry for the confusion. I meant the size and not the money debiting function of such a card.

Now back on topic everybody!

I find the Tilley practical but waaaay to dorky. A Kangol or basque hat would be better. There are also crushable fedoras made of Teflon-treated wool felt for less than $40. These things even look good.

Till

I tend to wear the Tilley where I need serious "hatage" like Zambia (that is me in one of my Tilleys on the right (http://www.flickr.com/photos/97883009@N00/321214498/sizes/o/in/set-72157594418086662/)). Also in Borneo although it was actually often shady there because of the jungle. I also wore a hat in Cambodia for some shade but again the jungle helped a lot. I found in Zambia that pouring water on the Tilleys band really helped cool me while walking. In Borneo it was so freaking humid it just made my head wetter since it didnt evaporate. ;)

GF, that's a very nice photo and the Tilley is without a doubt the right equipment for the location. My point was more to the usual business types we have here on FT. Imagine wearing a suit and a Tilley in Chicago. :)

For casual travel in non-city locations the Tilley is as good as it gets. Unfortunately, I hardly do any of that kind.

Till
PS: Obviously, just for my name alone, I should wear one.

Sorry, I interpreted it that they were a bit unclear as to what they said and that it just meant a generic card. Yes, a second room key solves that but I often forget to ask.

I collect the hotel entry cards as backup - once I used my Costco card and had to retrieve from housekeeping :)

My number one travel toy is an unlocked iPhone with skype app and wifi finder. With the unlimited international call plan, staying in touch with friends and family!

What a useless set of gadgets!

Here are a few that always seem to make my packing list:

1. I think the exofficio quick-dry boxers are now top of my list - regardless of travel for work or vacation these allow for great space saving when you're packing. Not sure if underwear qualifies as a "gadget" :p

2. The Tilley Hat. Good for sun and rain, plus it's got a secret pocket in the roof of the hat where you can stash credit card and cash in case of emergency. Apparantly girls think it's dorky, but I guess I'm a dork anyways!

3. Nokia E71 world phone. Got it for under $50 bucks from my carrier, and now that it's unlocked I can take it anywhere and just pop in a local SIM card for instant email, web surfing etc. Invaluable.

-I have to agree with the ExOfficio boxers. Patagonia also makes great ones as well. I work in humid Asian climates, and these are also waaay more comfortable than cotton or whatever else they make them out of these days.

-My friend has the E71, great phone, I travel with a Samsung Omnia and a Blackberry 8830, but have been looking at the E71 or its next gen of it when it comes and I get back stateside.

-Back to the keycard issue, another trick with some of the Asian hotels is you can actually use the sugar packets in the room to trick the power slot, which are found in the room, as some of them are larger to fill than just a CC type card slot.

-WorldMate Live on my blackberry is one of my saviors on travel as well, up-to-date flight info, flight schedules in case something gets canceled/delayed, and all the conversion info, even hotel bookings can be done! Its worth the subscription if you travel a lot.

OT, but where do they have this? I've never heard of such a thing before.


I just wrote that on my list of to take things for my next trip. This is a pain in the arse. You have to put the room key card into a slot that turns on your electric in the room. It is to keep people from leaving all the electric on when they leave the room. I never thought about using my own card and if you are charging something it is nice not to have all the electric off.
I take old clothes for layering and leave behind so that I have room for my goodies I am bringing back, I pack light so really helps.
I think items for the long plane trips are on my have to have list.
memory foam neck pillow
headphones
clorox wipes

I have used all three of those items in the hotels for bad pillows, noise and dirt.

Hi tfar...

I just need only your first eight tips because they are enough for me.

New favorite travel item: a 3-in-1 flashlight/night light/emergency light. We got one from Amazon by Greenlite, because the plug folds in for easier packing. It is the size of a regular plug-in night light. This solved our constant night time problem at hotels, of trying to leave on a light to make it easier to find the bathroom, and finding that most lights were too bright .... okay, a small problem but it bothered us!

This plug in night light shines just enough for us, and packs easily. There are several brands available -- Maxxima, Sentina, etc.

Old favorites:

Zip lock bags of all sizes, and I make sure to put several in each packing item (purse, backpack, suitcase). These are great for many reasons; one of the most common is to pack up unfinished food and zip it away to finish later on the plane or at the hotel. When I used to only carry them in one item, invariably I didn't have one with me when I needed it.

For plane travel: a neck scarf -- this keeps me warm when the plane gets too cold and works better than an extra sweater, which I was carrying but rarely using (already wearing one sweater.....). And, a night shade/mask - the best help to sleep on a plane.

This probably isn't huge on the list for the men on the board, but my top ten list definitely includes a light cashmere wrap/shawl. Warm enough to wrap up in on a cold flight, light enough to wear as a scarf so it doesn't clutter things up while getting off the flight. You can use it as a pillow, blanket, shawl, scarf.. just generally useful.

1) iPhone -- I don't carry a laptop on short trips anymore. I survived a week in London using it for email, Facebook, Twitter, Google Maps, currency converter, FlightTrack (http://www.flightview.com/corporate/news/20081117-FlightTrack_iphone_app_released.aspx), news, world clock, and camera. Buy a cheap international data plan to avoid ridiculous roaming charges.

2) small Aloksak waterproof dry bag -- I keep my phone, wallet, and passport in this US Navy tested/approved bag (http://www.thewaterproofstore.com/aloksakmulti.html) in my pocket. If your plane has to ditch in the water, you won't be able to take anything else, and these things I want to be dry. I've done this since before the Hudson River landing, which has only validated my Adrian Monk-like habit.

3) inconspicuous wallet -- flashing a LV monogram wallet is a bad idea in pickpockety places and tacky almost everywhere else. I use a minimalist $15 Dynomighty (http://www.dynomighty.com/product_detail.php?Air_Mail_Mighty_Wallet™&d=mighty+wallets%2F002-DY-400) wallet made from Tyvek. It fits many different sizes of currency, isn't flashy, and it's an interesting conversation starter (it's a great way to flirt with cute checkout girls).

4) small headphones -- airline-supplied headsets are unreliable. I bring a comfy, audiophile quality yet small Bang & Olufsen (http://store.apple.com/us/product/TE643LL/A?mco=NDk1NzM5NQ) headset, which are great if you're not a fan of in-earphones.

5) Tide To Go Mini stain remover pen -- the Tide pen (http://www.drugstore.com/qxp197254_333181_sespider/tide/to_go_mini_instant_stain_remover.htm) has been a savior for me on more than one occasion.

5) yoga pants -- most guys don't wear these, but they are the softest, most comfortable pants ever. I change out of my trousers on the plane (which also keeps them looking fresh), sleep in these, and change before landing. Especially great for longhaul international flights.

6) Patagonia clothes -- durable, functional, and tough travel clothes (http://www.patagonia.com) that don't look like those travel clothes that are so easy to spot anywhere in the world. In cotton or synthetic or blends, they have clothes for all different climates. They're expensive but they'll last forever. I still wear everything Patagonia that I have.

7) a good pair of shoes -- doesn't matter what kind really, outrageously expensive Mephisto walkers or sneakers or whatever. Something you don't mind walking a lot in. I'm a fan of Merrell Mocs (http://www.merrell.com/US/Home.aspx) (they don't make my favorite style anymore) but they're comfortable enough for all-day walking, dressy enough to get away with most situations (more versatile than sneakers), and easy to slip on and off. Again, if/when you have to evacuate a plane, it's nice to have good shoes. Ladies, your Manolos may look great but you can't jump on an emergency slide with them. If you must wear those Louboutins, and I won't complain if you do, bring some Rollasoles (http://www.rollasole.com/) or similar ballet flats.

8) small packable tote bag -- great for us shoppers. Available in many forms/sizes/styles. I hate carrying around flashy shopping bags, so I put them all inside the tote bag. It's also great for dumping maps, coins, receipts, etc. On my last trip to London I forgot to bring a bag, so I bought one for £2.99 - problem solved.

My list seems awfully boring but I never travel without these things.

*a note about the Adventure Medical Kits discussed in the NYT blog: the medium sized kits contain safety pins and sometimes tweezers, which are totally unacceptable through some airport security checkpoints (Singapore, Hong Kong, etc).

This probably isn't huge on the list for the men on the board, but my top ten list definitely includes a light cashmere wrap/shawl. Warm enough to wrap up in on a cold flight, light enough to wear as a scarf so it doesn't clutter things up while getting off the flight. You can use it as a pillow, blanket, shawl, scarf.. just generally useful.

I'm a fan of the cashmere blanket too. Still looking for something sufficiently compact and travel friendly, and not too expensive that I don't mind staining/losing it. Asprey cashmere is great but I would mind staining/losing it.

1) iPhone -- I don't carry a laptop on short trips anymore. I survived a week in London using it for email, Facebook, Twitter, Google Maps, currency converter, FlightTrack (http://www.flightview.com/corporate/news/20081117-FlightTrack_iphone_app_released.aspx), news, world clock, and camera. Buy a cheap international data plan to avoid ridiculous roaming charges.

2) small Aloksak waterproof dry bag -- I keep my phone, wallet, and passport in this US Navy tested/approved bag (http://www.thewaterproofstore.com/aloksakmulti.html) in my pocket. If your plane has to ditch in the water, you won't be able to take anything else, and these things I want to be dry. I've done this since before the Hudson River landing, which has only validated my Adrian Monk-like habit.

3) inconspicuous wallet -- flashing a LV monogram wallet is a bad idea in pickpockety places and tacky almost everywhere else. I use a minimalist $15 Dynomighty (http://www.dynomighty.com/product_detail.php?Air_Mail_Mighty_Wallet™&d=mighty+wallets%2F002-DY-400) wallet made from Tyvek. It fits many different sizes of currency, isn't flashy, and it's an interesting conversation starter (it's a great way to flirt with cute checkout girls).

4) small headphones -- airline-supplied headsets are unreliable. I bring a comfy, audiophile quality yet small Bang & Olufsen (http://store.apple.com/us/product/TE643LL/A?mco=NDk1NzM5NQ) headset, which are great if you're not a fan of in-earphones.

5) Tide To Go Mini stain remover pen -- the Tide pen (http://www.drugstore.com/qxp197254_333181_sespider/tide/to_go_mini_instant_stain_remover.htm) has been a savior for me on more than one occasion.

5) yoga pants -- most guys don't wear these, but they are the softest, most comfortable pants ever. I change out of my trousers on the plane (which also keeps them looking fresh), sleep in these, and change before landing. Especially great for longhaul international flights.

6) Patagonia clothes -- durable, functional, and tough travel clothes (http://www.patagonia.com) that don't look like those travel clothes that are so easy to spot anywhere in the world. In cotton or synthetic or blends, they have clothes for all different climates. They're expensive but they'll last forever. I still wear everything Patagonia that I have.

7) a good pair of shoes -- doesn't matter what kind really, outrageously expensive Mephisto walkers or sneakers or whatever. Something you don't mind walking a lot in. I'm a fan of Merrell Mocs (http://www.merrell.com/US/Home.aspx) (they don't make my favorite style anymore) but they're comfortable enough for all-day walking, dressy enough to get away with most situations (more versatile than sneakers), and easy to slip on and off. Again, if/when you have to evacuate a plane, it's nice to have good shoes. Ladies, your Manolos may look great but you can't jump on an emergency slide with them. If you must wear those Louboutins, and I won't complain if you do, bring some Rollasoles (http://www.rollasole.com/) or similar ballet flats.

8) small packable tote bag -- great for us shoppers. Available in many forms/sizes/styles. I hate carrying around flashy shopping bags, so I put them all inside the tote bag. It's also great for dumping maps, coins, receipts, etc. On my last trip to London I forgot to bring a bag, so I bought one for £2.99 - problem solved.

My list seems awfully boring but I never travel without these things.

*a note about the Adventure Medical Kits discussed in the NYT blog: the medium sized kits contain safety pins and sometimes tweezers, which are totally unacceptable through some airport security checkpoints (Singapore, Hong Kong, etc).

Respect! I humbly bow to the king of style. ^

The wallet is great and I love the luggage tags, too. Will order those.

Now, on the wallet, it says it measures 3.25 inches high. This means a Euro 100 note will barely fit if at all. Anything bigger (not that I carry that often) won't fit. What's your experience? Did you try a 100 Euro note?

I really like the Alok-sak for water landing ideas. My first preoccupation would be bare survival. But if I get that far it would be nice to have those three things still intact.

I am planning on an Iphone for the near future. Can you advice on the international data plans? I suppose only AT&T offers them. Would you by any chance know whether I can use an American ATT locked Iphone with a German T-Mobile SIM? T-Mobile is the official Iphone carrier in Germany, just like ATT is in the States.

Till

Yeah, that list is not good. Let's see if we can do better. Here are my suggestions in the order they come to mind.
...
11. Shaving oil (for super low weight, use conditioner in hotel)
...
23. A small amount of duct tape wrapped around a pen; for quick repairs.
...
Pick your fave ten!

TillLoved your list/reality check! ^ Especially appreciated the ones I've left in quote.

I would add my personal favourite: wire hangers. If you wash stuff you can find a way to hang it in a draft so it dries quickly. (Like right on the a/c or from a light fitting.) Also loads of places undersupply hangers anyway.

You mentioned a universal sink plug. I always travel with one - it never ceases to amaze me how often I need to use it.

For me, its a mp4 player like the creative zen and active noise canceling headphones for the long waits.

Grapeseed extract - multiple uses from purifying water to mouthwash,etc.

Unused card with magnetic strip

Wet wipes

My current primary travel flashlight. (http://www.brightguy.com/products/Streamlight_Sidewinder_Tactical_Flashlight.php)

My Blackberry Curve for T-Mobile (perhaps someday to be an iphone or Google phone)

ipod and Shure headphones to listen to audiobooks. I find I leave my noise-cancelling headset home on most trips.

Tumi 22021 rolling suitcase that fits LHR sizer and can hold a suit (http://www.irvsluggage.com/itemd.asp?ItemNo=T3%20L%2022021&srccode=GOOGLEBASE&CAWELAID=355951505)

Cole Haan Nike Air slip-on dress shoes (http://www.colehaan.com/colehaan/catalog/product.jsp?productId=151303&categoryId=312013&productGroup=197366 or http://www.colehaan.com/colehaan/catalog/product.jsp?productId=255676&categoryId=312013&productGroup=255678 or http://www.colehaan.com/colehaan/catalog/product.jsp?productId=182116&categoryId=312013&productGroup=+)

Kensington power brick that charges computer and USB from power outlet or airplane or car (http://us.kensington.com/html/13874.html). Bought a couple of refurbished ones at J&R.

Checkpoint friendly briefcase (I have http://www.ebags.com/ebags/firewall_rapidscreen_laptop_brief/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=125136 which is a bit clunky but works great)

Good shoulder strap (Optech SOS bought on ebay for $9 but here's a picture http://www.duracomsupply.com/servlet/the-202/OPTECH-S.O.S-Saves-On/Detail)

Non-Iron Dress Shirts (I use http://www.josbank.com/IWCatProductPage.process?Merchant_Id=1&Section_Id=1098&pcount=&Product_Id=147307)

Eagle Creek shirt folder. I have little Eagle Creek compartments but find I don't pack them either.

love the idea of getting/bringing an extra card for the master switches. I see these primarily in Europe.

shawbridge, nice list. I also love the Cole Haan Air Jackson. Actually, I liked them so much that I bought a second pair when they were on sale. They won't have this model forever so I got a back-up. It is really difficult to find stylish high-quality slippers with a rubber sole that looks like a leather sole in profile. no steel shank and an upper part that has no large visible elastic. To be stylish they need to have the least possible seams, too. This also helps make them more water-resistant.

I only once saw a Bruno Magli pair that fulfilled these criteria after searching for two years. They were out of my size and the model was nowhere to be found (discontinued). So when I saw the Air Jackson I jumped on it. I might get another pair in brown when they are on sale again.

Till

After getting yet another pashmina snagged beyond recognition on the strip of velcro on the back of airline/train seats, I am going to bring my own 10" strip of velcro to it cover up. Traveling light means carrying just what you need without looking or smelling like a hobo.

I have so many sweaters and jackets with snags on them from that velcro. argghh!:mad:

I did see a very interesting packable down jacket , I think from Cole Haan/Hugo Boss, where the jacket rolls into a U-shaped travel pillow. Unfortunately they only had that in Mens size L.

OT, but where do they have this? I've never heard of such a thing before.

IIRC Malmo, Sweden Radisson had such a thing, but the magnetic room key also worked. This device was near the door, so with your room key in it you never forgot it.

Respect! I humbly bow to the king of style. ^

The wallet is great and I love the luggage tags, too. Will order those.

Now, on the wallet, it says it measures 3.25 inches high. This means a Euro 100 note will barely fit if at all. Anything bigger (not that I carry that often) won't fit. What's your experience? Did you try a 100 Euro note?

I really like the Alok-sak for water landing ideas. My first preoccupation would be bare survival. But if I get that far it would be nice to have those three things still intact.

I am planning on an Iphone for the near future. Can you advice on the international data plans? I suppose only AT&T offers them. Would you by any chance know whether I can use an American ATT locked Iphone with a German T-Mobile SIM? T-Mobile is the official Iphone carrier in Germany, just like ATT is in the States.

Till

It fits most Asian currencies, and I had no problem with GB pounds. Did not try Euros. However, it's already soft and paper-thin and doesn't have any sort of closure so any notes that stick out a little bit won't be a problem. It hasn't been a problem for me.

I don't really know about using a T-Mobile SIM. Perhaps check Travel Technology for threads about that? From AT&T I just bought an international voice plan, text package, and a data package on a monthly basis while I was away. I traveled through Jordan/Israel/UAE/Singapore/HK/London over 2 months so it was worth it.

- LL Bean flat travel clock with temperature reading

- 10 dollar/Euro pashmina to act as a blanket on the plane and a good quality one for everything else

- Longchamp le Pliage bags - usually the small size tote and the medium size shopper

- packable tote which can be used as checked baggage

(surprised that the room key slot for power is a novelty to several FTers...)

I am planning on an Iphone for the near future. Can you advice on the international data plans? I suppose only AT&T offers them. Would you by any chance know whether I can use an American ATT locked Iphone with a German T-Mobile SIM? T-Mobile is the official Iphone carrier in Germany, just like ATT is in the States.

Till

At long at the phone is locked you may only use it with AT&T.

As far as the spare fake CC for the lights I just fold the little envelope that the room key comes in and jam it into the slot, this works fine and I will never "forget" a FF card again! :)

- LL Bean flat travel clock with temperature reading

I have one of these and really like it as it's compact and, so far, durable and quite user-friendly.

2) small Aloksak waterproof dry bag -- I keep my phone, wallet, and passport in this US Navy tested/approved bag in my pocket. If your plane has to ditch in the water, you won't be able to take anything else, and these things I want to be dry. I've done this since before the Hudson River landing, which has only validated my Adrian Monk-like habit.

I plan for the unexpected but isn't this taking it a little far? I mean the chances of this happening must be so remote as to barely bother calculating. Should we plan for the plane crashing in the Arctic and pack thermal undies? :D

I find Aloksaks really useful and also follow the strategy of having one that will fit my important and delicate stuff. Who knows when you'll be on a business trip and end up running a race in the rain? It happened to me :p

Hiking taught me to keep a way to put everything in a waterproof or water resistant bag. In most cases, this is a plastic bag around clothes and around a laptop, but there have been times I've been glad to have ultralight drybags.

I have one of these and really like it as it's compact and, so far, durable and quite user-friendly.



I plan for the unexpected but isn't this taking it a little far? I mean the chances of this happening must be so remote as to barely bother calculating. Should we plan for the plane crashing in the Arctic and pack thermal undies? :D

Indeed I am being quite silly. Surviving a plane crash is quite improbable anyway, and I would probably be happy to get away with my life, let alone phone and passport!

Seriously folks, it has practical benefits: I won't worry about spilling a drink or others spilling on me. Clothes dry a lot faster than phones. Also, having everything in one bag makes it less likely for me to lose one of the 3 things.

I liked the wallet, I currently use an All-Ett ( http://www.all-ett.com/ ) world's thinnest which is great but starting to fray.

So I thought $15 was fine. Then I saw the cost of sending one to the UK.

UPS Worldwide Express: $ 66.57

UPS Worldwide Expedited: $ 60.05

UPS Saver: $ 63.49


Maybe not.

I liked the wallet, I currently use an All-Ett ( http://www.all-ett.com/ ) world's thinnest which is great but starting to fray.

So I thought $15 was fine. Then I saw the cost of sending one to the UK.

UPS Worldwide Express: $ 66.57

UPS Worldwide Expedited: $ 60.05

UPS Saver: $ 63.49


Maybe not.

Their site links to a youtube video on how to make your own. Maybe it'll look cheap, but I'm considering doing this. $15 does sound like a lot for an envelope converted into a wallet. This way, you can make a ton and as each breaks (if they do), you can go back and make a new one :)

I think I'll head over to FedEx or the post office tomorrow for some free Tyvek envelopes!

My top 10 list:

1) BB Storm on Verizon w/16GB card - my mp3 player - when abroad activiate INTL data plan - unlimited data for $65 per month (pro-ratable) - Worldmate & Slingbox. Quicklaunch also turns the "flash" into a flashlight

2) IGO netbook anywhere charger - charges Netbook, Phone, BT headset

3) Packable windbreaker (these days an Orvis packable)

4) small collapsable umbrella (ShedRain vented right now)

5) 16 Oz hot/cold thermos

6) Tom Bihn case for liquids

7) laminated card with all my FF #'s so I don't have to carry all those cards and don't have to fumble with my Storm at the counter (even though all that info is in the Storm, too)

8) some Landjaeger vacuum packed from Schaller & Weber - great airplane food in my book

9) an REI fold into pocket duffel - at airport in winter - stuff jacket into it so you don't swealter - on airplane - open it up and toss everything loose into it and zip up and keep at your feet so you don't lose anything - of course, you bought something and need another bag...

10) If I have a lot of luggage (long trip & traveling with my better half) - Portercase elite - you'd be amazed what you can stack and effectively haul with this thing - they say 200lbs - i haven't tried that but a packed duffel, an Andiamo suit bag and my computer case on top and can haul that through heathrow to the express, out of Paddington and 4 blocks to a hotel - no problem.

4) small collapsable umbrella (ShedRain vented right now)

I found a small no-name umbrella that is black and compact and neatly fits into my Eddie Bauer day sightseeing bag, much like the
Expedition Travel Bag (http://www.eddiebauer.com/EB/Bags--Gear/Handbags--Wallets/Wallets/index.cat#ppl=%7Btype%3A%22hide%22%7D) model they have now, but on a recent trip to KIX and a rainy Kyoto day one part of the fabric popped off the stretcher, I think it's called, and so had a lopsidded umbrella. Once back in the hotel found some thread and a needle in the desk drawer and fixed it temporarily but am wondering if I should get a new compact umbrella. I only wind up using the thing while travelling and maybe one day a year so it seems a waste to buy another name brand model for $30-$40 but also don't want to rely on something that doesn't work or may break again new time I need it.

Anyone have a fave brand that's light, compact, black and reliable?

ShedRain is pretty good if you're looking for small - it's vented as well

If you want the best, look for a GustBuster - they are vented, 42" for the "small" one - only downside is it's 14" for the manual one; 16" for the push button open.

1. iPhone
2. Kindle
3. Nalgene bottle -- I refill it with water as soon as I'm through security. The bottles can take a lot of abuse, and they don't leak. You can clip them outside of your bag if you need to.
4. Extra ziplock bags
5. Mini Maglight
6. A hoodie -- a warm layer that can also double as a pillow
7. Warm fleecy socks; I use them like slippers but they don't take up much room
8. Pad of paper
9. A pen

Interesting at some of the choices of travel product. I guess it's because of the different types of travel that people do. For example. I fly 50-150k miles a year and I have never had any need for a flashlight, or bedside clock. My travel is mainly business and I'm staying in hotels.

For me it will be:

Blackberry 8900 TMobile USA. It does everything. Clock. Alarm clock. Internet. Email. I connect via WiFi/UMA while I am overseas to call home like I was placing a local call and not get charged $3/minute. BeeJive instant messaging and the $19.99 international blackberry data plan I can stay connect with my wife at pretty much all times.

Archos 504 160gb Media Player. I travel a lot overseas and to foreign countries. With my Archos I'll rip DVD's to Divx and I'll have 10-12 complete seasons of several TV shows and 30-40 movies on hand at any given time. Along with the AV out capabilities it gives me something to watch on the TV besides the local Indian or Malaysian TV or the 1-2 english speaking channels. There is an investment of time that must be made to convert the DVD's to XviD or Divx but the process is pretty easy. Probably took about an hour of my time plus about 8-10 hours of unsupervised video encoding to to convert a 5DVD set of a 23 episode TV season into 23 seperate Xvid encoded AVI files for my Archos.

Amazon Kindle. I'm a pretty fast reader and can burn through a pile of books quick. No more having to lug around several heavy bulky books. I just have one very thin lightweight sleek device and I can carry around more books then I could read in a lifetime.

Serengeti Photochromic sunglasses. I love their Driver's tint from 9-24% light transmission. Adjusts to all light conditions. Works great and love them. I'm currently using the Cascade 6752 from their 2004 catalog. Polymer frame with rubber on the nose bridge and over the ears to keep them from slipping. I actually mostly use Oakleys while at home (I've got 4-5 pairs with several types of lenses some interchangable) but the Serengetis are what I take when I travel.

I am looking for a very slim wallet that a) combines a credit card holder with a money clip; b) fits into front pants pocket (or jacket pocket); and c) optionally, has a section that show my driver's license. Any suggestions?

[I don't want to hijack this thread so I will start another thread)

I am looking for a very slim wallet that a) combines a credit card holder with a money clip; b) fits into front pants pocket (or jacket pocket); and c) optionally, has a section that show my driver's license. Any suggestions?

[I don't want to hijack this thread so I will start another thread)

I have a Storus money clip. It's actually pretty compact and made of nickel-plated steel. It came out to around $35 for the personalized version, and $30 for the blank. Clip on one side, credit card holder on the other, and I just keep my driver's license on the outside, but this won't fly for most places that require ID; they usually want you to take it out.

thanks for recommending #7. i'll try it out.

16 is funny. I often had to get up and spend minutes to adjust the blinds and still have problem getting them right.

Interesting at some of the choices of travel product. I guess it's because of the different types of travel that people do. For example. I fly 50-150k miles a year and I have never had any need for a flashlight, or bedside clock. My travel is mainly business and I'm staying in hotels.

Archos 504 160gb Media Player. I travel a lot overseas and to foreign countries. With my Archos I'll rip DVD's to Divx and I'll have 10-12 complete seasons of several TV shows and 30-40 movies on hand at any given time. Along with the AV out capabilities it gives me something to watch on the TV besides the local Indian or Malaysian TV or the 1-2 english speaking channels. There is an investment of time that must be made to convert the DVD's to XviD or Divx but the process is pretty easy. Probably took about an hour of my time plus about 8-10 hours of unsupervised video encoding to to convert a 5DVD set of a 23 episode TV season into 23 seperate Xvid encoded AVI files for my Archos.

I agree. A lot of what you pack depends on what type of travel you plan on doing. A business traveler will pack a computer and electronics while someone going on a hiking trip in Thailand probably doesn't want to bring their $2000 Mac on the trip.

As a business/pleasure traveler within the U.S, I usually bring my laptop and I have found that loading my tv shows onto my computer via Tivo2Go helps catch me up on my current shows and probably saves battery time due to not using the CD Rom.

As far as the comment about not needing a flashlight, I have a really tiny flashlight(Maglight?) that I attach to the hook in my laptop backpack (aka My Go bag) and it has been quite helpfull in locating whatever fell out of my bag during the flight or finding small items that sink to the bottom of my bag. The overhead lights on planes don't work that well when you are looking for something small and dark colored.