Over-packing can be a big headache. Frequent packing and unpacking is not only time-consuming but also stressful. The more you pack, the more likely that you’ll lose something. If you forget to pack something except prescribed medicine, you can easily find an alternative at destination, often for less. Many people stuff their suitcases with lots of clothing, which is a big mistake. Convenient and affordable laundry service is available in most places we travel if you don’t want to do it by hand in your room. And layering up would save so much space in your suitcase.
Luggage Allowance
Each client is restricted to one piece of checked luggage during the tour. We do not accept exceptions even if the client is willing to pay extra. The maximum dimensions of your checked luggage must comply with the requirements of the airlines in use. Local airlines limit each passenger to one piece of checked luggage. The weight allowance is 20 kg (44 lbs) in general, but in some cases it is as low as 15 kg. Most airlines allow one carry-on bag weighing no more than 10 kg, but there are some that restrict the weight to 7 kg.
Since we do not provide luggage service, the client must be able to lift and comfortably transport their own luggage. Space for luggage storage on trains can be tight; it is imperative for the client to travel light.
Recommended Type of Suitcase
If you want to bring suitcase to check in, make sure it is sturdy and has strong wheels to survive the rough handling by the airlines. You should also wrap the suitcase with a strap for better protection.
Backpack & Sling Bag
We recommend that you bring a medium-sized backpack in addition to a crossbody sling bag (fanny pack). The sling bag can be extremely useful for air travel — instead of frequently reaching for your backpack in the overhead bin, you should stuff your passport, mobile phone & charging cable, wallet, headphone, prescription medication, hand sanitizer etc. in your sling bag.
A Special Note on Train Travel
In China and Japan, we travel a lot by train. It’s crucial that you limit yourself to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag partly due to limited luggage storage space on the trains.
To navigate train stations, you should always keep one hand free. This is extremely important when you ride escalators.
What to Wear
Formal attire is never required on our tours. Overcoat and heavy jacket should be left home. Please check the weather of the destinations before packing.
Comfortable walking shoes and casual clothes that can be worn in layers are essential. T-shirts and shorts are fine, although in Japan few male adults walk around in shorts.
It’s better to bring clothing that can be worn in layers and easy to wash by hand. When you are done washing your socks and underwear, roll them up in a towel and wring them for quick drying. Short-sleeved shirts with a pocket are better than T-shirts. Shorts and convertible pants with side pockets are more desirable than jeans.
Some temples and indoor space of historical buildings may require removal of footwear. In Southeast Asia, some temples require visitors to cover up their legs above the knees. Women may be asked to cover up their exposed shoulders as well.
In India and Southeast Asia, temple visits often mean walking around barefoot. Unfortunately, you often come out with the bottom of your feet covered in dirt. That’s why it’s necessary to always carry some antiseptic wet wipes and a small bottle of hand sanitizer.
In Japan (and South Korea sometimes), when you enter a traditional restaurant, you are normally required to remove your shoes and walk around in socks only. There may be other places in Japan where removal of footwear is required. Since the floor can be cold and hard, it is necessary to bring a pair of thick socks just in case.
Medicines, Travel Documents & Valuables
Please do not pack your passport, prescription medication, money and personal electronic devices in your checked bag. Checked bags are not allowed to contain lithium batteries (this requirement is not consistent across the airline industry). A full list of banned items can be found on the airlines’ websites.
Things You Should Not Bring
You do not need to bring your own hair dryer, toilet paper, shampoo, and bath towels.
A Special Note on Air Travel in Southeast Asia
Due to the lack of efficient rail and highway systems in Southeast Asia, we generally travel by air from city to city even for short distances – Bagan to Mandalay is a perfect example. Because the aircraft are small, standard-sized hard case carry-ons won’t fit into the tiny overhead bins.