Do you remember that beautiful line from the John Denver tune, "Leaving on a jet plane", immortalized by Mary Travers of the 1960s folk trio, Peter, Paul and Mary? If not, go find it on the internet.

Seriously, speaking of bags, don't forget to bring an extra bag to UOR or have some type of plan figured out in advance. Attendees at every UOR go home loaded down with samples, products, souvenirs, and other assorted goodies.

You'll come home with more stuff than you can imagine. Yes, you're going to get a sturdy conference bag, but it won't hold all of the loot. Tuck a light-weight, zippered synthetic tote or duffle bag into your suitcase.

Another solution is to use a suitcase that can expand to hold the extras. It's not a great idea to travel by air with a half empty suitcase if it contains breakables. Luggage takes a beating and loosely packed objects are more likely to break.

Finally, most airlines restrict passengers to two checked bags that weigh less than 50 pounds apiece. There is a fee for overweight bags. Every airline has specific carry-on limits as well. Check the details with your carrier in advance.

Here's one more option. Ship everything back before you leave D.C. Prepaid flat rate Priority Mail boxes are a great solution. Pick a couple up at the post office and slip them into your suitcase.
posted by Anne Nugent Guignon, RDH, MPH @ 7/27/2007 02:17:00 PM

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