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precise number of outfits that you'll need and don't pack a single piece of clothing more. Try to coordinate your clothing so that you can reuse items, such as pants, jeans or skirts, multiple times. Your goal is to be comfortable, not necessarily to look great.
If you are going on a trip that is more than one week, take one week's worth of clothing and then washing it while on your trip. Going to laundromat in a foreign country is a great way to become acquainted with culture. View it as an opportunity, not a hassle. Alternatively, you may be able to wash some items in sink at your hotel.
Remember that you are going on vacation, so is it really necessary to bring your laptop or your PDA. Aren't you going on vacation to get away from all that. You'll likely be able to access an Internet cafe at your destination, another perfect opportunity to learn more about local culture. If you're an avid reader, pick one book to bring and when you're done swap it with someone that you meet in your hotel, another opportunity to extend yourself beyond your normal preferred reading.
The reason that you are traveling is to relax, to explore another location, to expand your horizons and to connect with culture and people of your destination. Laundromats, Internet cafes and book swapping are all excellent ways to fulfill purpose of travel.
Don't be oppressed by large and heavy luggage that restricts your movement like a ball and chain clamped to your ankle. Eileen was a lot happier without her blow-dryer and you will be too. Free yourself to really get out there and enjoy your vacation.
Jed Clark is a travel writer, photographer and long-time San Francisco resident. For more travel tips and information about San Francisco destinations, attractions and neighborhoods, visit http://www.zurdogo.com/ - a destination guide to San Francisco.
