Pack It Up

There are few tasks more daunting than packing for a trip (which is why I like to save it till about two hours before the plane actually departs), but smart travelers will want to take advantage of a little pre-planning, as well as the techniques shown in this video by world traveler and author Anne McAlpin. Pointing out that the two most important things to pack on any travel trip are an open mind and a sense of humor (which are precisely the two things I am most likely to forget), McAlpin demonstrates the secrets of fitting a two-week wardrobe--with toiletries, accessories, and shoes--into a single suitcase. I know it sounds like a cheap parlor trick, but she actually does it step-by-step. Part of the magic, of course, is to mix and match, relying on outfits centered on two basic colors and suitable for a wide variety of situations (from nature hikes to formal dining). McAlpin also suggests wearing a money belt, offers safety tips, and as a bonus, demonstrates several scarf-tying techniques, like the "Segovian Secret" which is much more presentable in public than, say, Victoria's Secret (sorry, that was a lazy one). My only quibble is that the program is overwhelmingly aimed at female travelers. There is a brief mention and flasher-worthy shot of a male wardrobe, but if you blink or sneeze you'll miss it. Generally, I try not to encourage blatant sexism in travel packing videos, but this is easily the best tape on the subject I've seen since How to Pack and Travel Lightly (VL-2/87), which is a little old. You might want to photocopy the handy traveler checklist which is liable to disappear on the first circulation. Recommended. Aud: P. (R. Pitman)