Traveling Companions

Yes, this picture may be staged, but 19 days from now, I'll be maneuvering through Gloucester Green instead of my backyard with these three in tow.

I wanted to give you an idea of the amount/type of luggage I'm taking. Virgin Atlantic allows 2 checked bags, 50 lbs each, and 1 carry-on, max 13 lbs. And believe me, I need these limits.

Here's the run-down, clockwise from top:

Jansport Backpack - I don't even remember why my step-dad bought this, but it served my brother, Tim, very well when he spent a semester in Oxford. However, it was one of his main bags. For me, this will serve as a carry-on. Since my other two bags are on the large side, I'll be able to use the backpack for weekend trips. It has a main compartment and a mini backpack that can stay attached or zip off for running errands or shorts hikes and what not.

Bagzilla - A birthday gift from my grandma, this suitcase has served me well over the years. At 30" x 21" x 10", you can guess the name's origin. It also has a zip-out expander that adds about 4" to the depth. With a bag this big, I do have to be cautious; it's easier to exceed the weight limit (and I have paid my fair share of $25 fines for having an overweight bag).

Ruby - My 99 cent store gem! An incredibly light weight bag 26" x 18" x 8" with 3" zip-out expander. The actual suitcase probably weighs less than 4 pounds.

Now the trick is to fit everything I want to bring into those three bags...