travel intel
you’re setting off on a weeklong adven-
ture, it is possible to do more with less
space. (I once travelled to Kenya on
a 10-day safari adventure with just a
carry-on.)
A smaller bag will also require less
muscle power. If you’re visiting more
than one destination, you’d be sur-
prised how much you actually carry
your bag. If you’re worried about over-
head space on the plane, many airlines
will check your carry-on for free at the
gate if a flight is full. Ask the attendant
when you arrive at your gate.
The Low-Down on Luggage
How to be suitcase savvy with smart
choices and pro packing tips
By Kellie Davenport
Go high-tech
There used to be two choices when it
came to choosing luggage: hard- or
soft-side. Thankfully, manufacturers
have developed smart-tech features
that sync with today’s electronic age.
Avoid potentially hefty overweight
baggage charges with a smart suit-
case that has a built-in scale.
To keep your devices charged on
the go, look for a bag with an inte-
grated battery and USB port for mobile
phones and tablets. And to avoid lost
luggage, many models feature built-
in GPS tracking mechanisms. While
CAA Stores don’t currently carry these
models, you can stock up on some
e-gear and gadgets (below).
Checked vs. carry-on
These days, it’s the norm to pay for
checked baggage. Most airlines now
charge a fee—even for your first bag.
Fees range from $25-$35 each way
and are limited to weight restrictions,
usually 23 kg. Beware of ultra-low-cost
airlines though: A seemingly cheap
airfare might mean an additional $200
in checked-bag fees.
If you are able to do so, try to stick
to a smartly packed carry-on bag no
larger than 55 cm/21.5 inches. Even if
take it with you
Always carry these essentials with
you: passport, driver’s licence or other
photo ID, debit and credit cards, some
cash, tickets and itinerary, emergency
phone list, travel insurance docu-
ments, essential medication, and your
medical/allergy info or bracelet. It’s
also a good idea to make photocopies
of credit cards, passports and tickets.
Store them separately from the origi-
nals—it will make life much easier in
the event something is lost or stolen.
Pack like a pro
For your travel wardrobe, stick to
comfortable, wrinkle-resistant clothing
in neutral colours for easy mixing-and-
matching. Add colour with accessories
you buy during your trip. Plan to take
or wear your bulkiest outfit or gear
on the plane (hiking boots, coat), so
your suitcase contains lighter items.
To optimize space in luggage, roll
clothing rather than folding it. Place
rolls vertically versus stacking—it’ll
help you see your full wardrobe at a
glance. After your bag is packed, snap
a picture of its exterior in case it gets
lost or damaged in transit.
Gadgets
on the Go
stock up on
travel gear
at your local
caa store
Balanzza USB luggage scale
digitally weighs bags up to 44 kg/100
lbs; charges using any usB connection Go power Bank 4000
4000 mah power supply—enough
to charge an iPhone more than once Damsel in D-Stress kit
emergency kit with 25 items in case
of beauty or wardrobe malfunctions
Member price: $30.75 Member price: $26.95 Member price: $17.25
CAA SASKATCHEWAN
fAll 2017
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