In need of some packing advice...

[Clarity]

Thank you everyone for all the amazing packing advice!

Spub, Ann theresa, Maryann, 7 mile lover, ladyjane – What you wrote really convinced me that carry-ons are the way to go. Thanks!

Angel – you're right about the vaccuum pack bags, I have easy access to a vaccuum here in SF but will I be able find one I can use in Negril? That might pose a problem when I'm re-packing for our return trip.

Irieworld – yeah, it's the return trip to SF that poses the biggest problem. We have to re-check our bags in customs and there is a very small window of time for us to do that . The lay over is really short and I have to go to work the next day. Can't afford to miss that flight from Miami to Negril. I'm using every single vacation day and floating holiday that I have for this upcoming trip.

Cinni and Sweetsue – I like your idea with the ziplock bags – I'm going to try that! Thanks!

Tfw73 – that's awesome that your airline doesn't charge for the first bag. Are you flying Jetblue?

Schuttzie – I like how you guys roll ! Glad to know that we're not the only ones moving around as much as we do. We just love experiencing different hotels and meeting new people. Everytime we check out of one hotel and into another, It feels like an entirely new vacation is starting all over again. I love testing out the bed, looking at the view from the balcony/porch/window, exploring the hotel grounds. It's so much fun!

We started packing our bags this weekend and it looks like we're going to be able to successfully pull off two carry-ons and two personal items. Everything fits so far... albeit a TIGHT squeeze, but I think once we buy some ziplock bags, we can manage to close the suitcases. Haha!

There are a few things we couldn't fit. Like the photo albums I wanted to show my family members in JA. I've decided that I'll just scan them and load them onto the internet. Then I can just show them with my laptop. We also couldn't fit the acrylic paint set for courtney the carver, but we'll just send it to him through the mail instead. My shoe selection will be very limited too. A pair of sandals and a pair of water shoes but I'll deal with it. (or hit up Marley for some shoes since we're the same size lol! )

Thanks so much everyone!
There is so much great information and helpful tips here. I think this thread will be very helpful for others facing the same packing situation.

18 days until Negril!

[tfw73]

Clarity, I think I googled an old link or something now. We're flying Delta and the current site says you have to pay for your checked bags so I'm assuming we do. That puts it back in the carry on category! I think I can do it, however. I'm going to try the ziplocs for clothes and only take the liquid things that I absolutely have to have and buy the rest there. Now unless they sell snorkel gear at Megamart, I'm going to have to try and figure out how to pack that too!

You reminded me about the water shoes...I can't forget those!

[marley9808]

Any particular color or style you would like?

[Patty Sather]

Clarity, I think I googled an old link or something now. We're flying Delta and the current site says you have to pay for your checked bags so I'm assuming we do. That puts it back in the carry on category! I think I can do it, however. I'm going to try the ziplocs for clothes and only take the liquid things that I absolutely have to have and buy the rest there. Now unless they sell snorkel gear at Megamart, I'm going to have to try and figure out how to pack that too!

You reminded me about the water shoes...I can't forget those!

I also fly delta ..and they told me one free checked per person and if you have amex you get a second checked free.......International flight to the island

[ralonzo29]

Hey Clarity

My 2 cents as a low maintenance kinda guy, I realize that every-time I go I use so much less clothes than I take I could get away with 4 pants (shorts) and a couple of tees I seem to always wear the same shirt(s) (usually 2) if I'm laying by the pool. I bring to many Guyabera dress shirts but I dont use even more than 2 of them. Not knowing Hubbayman very well but if he's low maint like me he could probably get by with less than what he really packed. Also if you want me to snag some paint and through in my bag let me know.

Ninja

[Coco]

Clarity - container store sells space bags especially for travel. They provide a vacuum seal but you roll them and don't need a vacuum cleaner.

[Bella Bea]

Clarity You know you can borrow all of my stuff!!
I could never do it in a Carry on! and its not so much because of the clothes and shoes!
Its because of all my other Crap that I need! Hair dryer, Flat Hair Iron, Moisturizers, wrinkle cream, Sunblock, Makeup, hats, etc..... that goes all in a big bag that I check in; with the clothes I bring in case i feel fat, bloated, extra skinny, sexy, *****y etc...! Also in the checked bag ill bring my small espresso maker, splenda, cozi's babba keg, on stove top heater to make coffee!!!
I pack all my clothes essentials, all I will know I need, bathing suits, underwear, cute summer dresses, sarongs and Jewelry! Even 2 pair of high heels and 2 flip flops 1 cute, one beach, the rest of the shoes at least 4 more pairs if im being good, sometimes more, go on the checked bag.

ps the weights did not go on the bag Just in case
and this are old pics from previous travel!

[SweetSue]

Clarity - have you checked into what it would cost you to mail the paint set? I wanted to mail my friend's daughter a couple books and it wasn't worth it, the postage was so high! (>$60) Plus you have to fill out a customs form and pay any associated charges up front. ON top of all of that, there is absolutely NO guarantee that the package will ever reach its destination. I think you might do better to find a way to squeeze it in or buy one in JA. (I speak from past experience with international packages)

Good Luck & Enjoy!

Peace.

[Angel]

Yes would carry the stuff to Courtney not worth sending if it even made it there and he would have to probably pay to pick up. And I think by U.S. mail they will not insure. You are going for your anniversary so if there are things you want for that would pack then you don't need to scan photos but would carry them on and can pack other things. And if you want to bring things home that can't be carried on then you would have a bag to pack it in. And if questioned about the paint say it is for you or Markus. :-) hope you get it all together.

[tfw73]

I also fly delta ..and they told me one free checked per person and if you have amex you get a second checked free.......International flight to the island

Well I know we always flew Delta and it was one free checked bag per person. I'll double check because that would certainly make me happy! LOL