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Luggage
· Choose luggage that is lightweight, roomy, easy to carry, yet durable enough to withstand rough treatment. Baggage handlers are brutal. Be sure that each piece has a secure lock. Note: Luggage should be unlocked when checked. If you lock it, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents may break the locks during inspection. A separate bag strap around the bag can hold the bag together and save your possessions should the zippers break.
· A suitcase with wheels is essential. Trips through the airport are much easier with bags that can be rolled and/or connected together, but be aware that wheels that don't retract can often be damaged or broken off during baggage handling.
· Put you name, address and phone number(s) on both the inside and outside of your bags. Adding a colorful ribbon or bag strap can help to identify your checked bag(s) as they come off the baggage carousel. Faster bag retrieval can help to speed you through customs.
Packing
· Make a list of things you plan to take with you on your trip. This list will also prove helpful if your luggage is lost or stolen so bring it with you.
· Pack light. Less luggage means shorter waits for baggage claim, less need for porters, and easier Customs inspections. American Airlines charges $$ extra for heavy bags so watch the weight.
· Take travel-size toiletries instead of full bottles. This will help to save space and reduce weight. In your carry-on bag, you will only be permitted to carry one (1) quart-size plastic zip-top bag per person with travel-size toiletries in 3oz or less size containers (the 3-1-1 bag). The remainder of your toiletries should go in your checked bag.
· Remember to pack all liquids in plastic bottles with room to expand to avoid leakage. For added protection, place them in heavy plastic leak proof bags.
· Choosing a basic wardrobe will help you pack light. Select clothes that will coordinate well with each other to avoid extra packing.
· Think of your intended activities and the duration of your stay. This will help you to narrow down your wardrobe and pack accordingly.
· Pack a swim suit. Many Alpine hotels in Europe have indoor pools/whirlpools/saunas providing guests with year-round bathing facilities.
· Check the weather conditions for the area to which you will be traveling. Pack clothes suited to the weather conditions at your destination. See average September temperatures below.
· Pack a small collapsible umbrella.
· Keep cameras and film on your person; never pack them in checked luggage. The security x-rays used on checked luggage can fog film, permanently ruining vacation photos.
· Take along an electrical adapter kit for your hair dryer, shaver or travel iron if you are traveling abroad. The electrical output in most European countries is 220 volts, while in the United States it is 110 volts; your electrical adapter kit will not only convert the electric current, but also accommodate foreign plug designs.
· Always include a collapsible bag that will fit easily into your luggage. This will help to accommodate any new purchases or dirty laundry you might have.
· Shoes should be packed in an old pair of socks (or use the plastic sleeves that rolled newspapers come in) to protect other clothes from being soiled. You may also want to stuff your shoes with socks or other small items; that way they won't be crushed in your suitcase, and you will save space.
· Suits, dresses, shirts, and blouses should be packed in plastic bags to limit wrinkling. Roll pajamas, nightgowns, sweaters and other casual wear to fill small spaces.
· Pack your undergarments together in a clear, sealed, zip-top, jumbo bag. If/when TSA security inspects your checked bag, they wont be rummaging through your unmentionables. Hefty makes a great, jumbo, multi-purpose zip-top bag, 10 per box that works great.
· Always carry your travel documents, medication, jewelry, traveler's checks, keys, and other valuables in your carry-on luggage. Items such as these should NEVER be packed in luggage that you intend to check.
· Be sure to bring along ample supplies of any medications you use, especially prescription medications. If necessary, explain to your doctor that you are going out of town to get a prescription for an extra supply. Always bring a copy of your prescription with you and keep it with your valuables, especially when traveling abroad; this will answer any questions any customs agents may have, and help ensure that you can acquire more of the medication if needed.
· Never take items of great monetary or sentimental value (fine jewelry) with you on a trip. Instead, pack with the notion that everything you are bringing will be left behind, and don't bring anything irreplaceable.
For The Flight(s)
· Youll be on the plane(s) for more than 12 hours (longer if there are weather delays). Dress for comfort. Wear pants that dont require a belt and have some give. Elastic or drawstring waistbands work well.
· Bring a light jacket with you on the plane. At 37,000 feet, planes can get chilly.
· Wear comfortable shoes that can be easily removed and then put on quickly. Bring or wear socks as airplane carpets can be incredibly dirty.
· Feet can swell during long flights so wear shoes that stretch/give.
· Earphones - American Airlines provides earphones for the in-flight movie(s), but if you have a pair of headphones you like, bring them with you.
· Pillow/Blanket - American Airlines provides a travel size pillow and blanket on international flights.
· Snacks- During the outbound international flight, youll be served two meals (dinner and breakfast); however, you mat want to bring a zip-top bag w/ a few snacks in case of delays (i.e. baby carrots, chips, Oreos, a Special-K cereal bar chewing gum).
· Before boarding, buy a bottle of water in the airport terminal. This too, can save you, in case of delays which prevent the flight attendants from serving beverages.
· Entertainment American Airlines typically runs two movies and CBS Eye on America news clips on tape during long international flights.
Anticipated Alpine Temperatures
Central Germany (Frankfurt) September Averages
Average High 66° F
Average Low 50° F
Southern Germany (Munich) September Averages
Average High 66° F
Average Low 47° F
Northern Switzerland (Zurich) September Averages
Average High 76° F
Average Low 40° F
Central Switzerland (Interlaken) September Averages
Average High 65° F
Average Low 48° F
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