Avoid Baggage Fees: What Not to Pack

PENNINGTON, N.J., June 18 /PRNewswire/ -- Travelers' woes are rising along with gas prices this summer as United Airlines and US Airways join American Airlines in charging fliers $15 for a single checked bag. IndependentTraveler.com (www.independenttraveler.com), a leader in online travel information, is helping travelers fight back against airline baggage fees with five simple packing tips for people striving to pack efficiently and fly with only a carry-on.

1. Rethink the Wardrobe

Stick to wardrobe essentials. Choose clothes in neutral colors that can be mixed and matched, and pack a travel-size packet of laundry detergent to wash clothes while traveling. Bring no more than two pairs of shoes: one to be packed and one to be worn on the plane.

2. Simplify the Beauty Regimen

Don't lug an army of beauty products across the globe. Instead, use hotel toiletries or pack products with multiple uses, such as a moisturizer with SPF or a combination shampoo/conditioner. To meet security requirements, pack products in containers of three ounces or less in a quart-size, zip-top, clear plastic bag.

3. Pick One Favorite Guidebook

Don't weigh a suitcase down with books. Pack one comprehensive guidebook and use Internet cafes as necessary to look up additional information on the road.

4. Leave the Crown Jewels at Home

Leave all valuables at home. Fancy watches and jewelry are targets for thieves and can prevent travelers from fitting into the local culture.

5. Forget the Gizmos

Pack only indispensable electronic gadgets. Skip the toothbrush sanitizer, ocean sound machine and other extraneous items.

To help travelers pack more efficiently, IndependentTraveler.com offers a unique interactive packing list (www.independenttraveler.com/packing/), featuring more than 100 commonly packed items. This powerful online tool lets travelers create a personalized packing list to save, print or e-mail to friends.

IndependentTraveler.com features a wealth of packing tips and resources, including the latest carry-on rules for air travelers and advice on saving space in a suitcase.

About IndependentTraveler.com

IndependentTraveler.com debuted on America Online in 1990 and quickly established its credentials as an authoritative Internet resource for objective travel information, advice, deals and trip reports written by travelers. IndependentTraveler.com was acquired by TripAdvisor(R), LLC, the world's largest travel community and an operating company of Expedia, Inc., in May 2007.

The Independent Traveler is a trademark or registered trademark of The Independent Traveler, Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. Other logos or product and company names mentioned herein may be the property of their respective owners.

IndependentTraveler.com is published by The Independent Traveler, Inc., a subsidiary of TripAdvisor, LLC, which is an operating company of Expedia, Inc.

    CONTACT:
    Sarah Schlichter
    editor@independenttraveler.com
    609-730-9155 x19
    Web site: http://www.independenttraveler.com