The perfect travel bag

[medpedspouse]

We'll be in Paris from 4/4 to 4/8, Bruges 4/8 to 4/10, and Amsterdam 4/10 to 4/12.

that would be hilarious -- but it sounds like we'll miss each other.

Aaaw - I'll just miss you. I'll be in Paris for a quick trip from the 14th-17th then on to Barcelona.

[NYCHoosier]

My friend brought a basic Longchamp tote (can't remember which exact size... was pretty big but held more than one would think) with her when we went to India last year, and it was great as we hoped all over the North. Overpriced, but I imagine they're good quality:
http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/2938978?...=nord_39126280

It's also also uber trendy right now. It is for bags what the Tory Burch Revva flat was for shoes a couple years ago.

[Vishenka69]

I'm not sure it's a good idea to combine a day purse with a carry on. I would get something like this for the carry on, http://www.ebags.com/baggallini/zip_...?modelid=18648 and something smaller that can fit inside for the day purse (also stick to non-leather and minimal hardware to keep the weight down). What about something like this, http://www.ebags.com/sherpani/talia/...modelid=144611 or this, http://www.ebags.com/baggallini/mila...modelid=127320.

As for packing light, I usually pack a lot of camisoles/tanks and then layer them with a few sweaters/cardigans. Make sure almost everything you take can be mixed and matched. Also wear your bulkiest stuff on the plane (i.e. jeans, sneakers, etc.). And don't forget that in Europe people don't shower and change their clothes every day, so go ahead and recycle your clothes several times.

[DCJenn]

and if something really needs to be washed and the sink just won't cut it (like mud up the back of a pant leg or something) most hotels have a laundry service.

Jenn

[Vishenka69]

Forgot to mention that I always travel with a Tide pen and little packets for sink washing (haven't used them yet, but feels good knowing I have them). Also H&M is great if you're in need of extra undies/socks/tanks/t's (for both you and J).

[medpedspouse]

I just bought the travel tote which is 50% off BUT does not come in fun colors like the Lug. It is safe though.
http://www.pacsafe.com/www/index.php...=detail&id=127

FYI - Just got my PacSafe 300 citybag. It is actually a little more stylish than I expected and my SLR camera BAG fits inside as well as Kindle, and my other usual purse contents. I am ready for Paris! DH thinks these bags are overkill but I had my purse slashed when I was in Costa Rica as a foreign exchange student.