[SingleMama2B]

Hi..... I adopted as a single Mom, so I was severely hampered by only allowed 2 bags (checked), and had to travel in January (2005) with ALL winter clothes, boots, winter coat, etc., but did it fine. For my clothes... I took solid pants (that I could wash in the tub with woolite), and solid sweaters that I could mix and match. For DD, it was more difficult, as I had to take winter coat, etc. that I listed above. I used my suitcase for the 'gifts'. I did not package them, and choose to use gift bags with tissue paper, as these would pack flat until it was the day to hand them out. This saved ALOT of space. I also shoose to purchase the "Orphanage Gift" while in-country, as I could make sure what they really needed. In my case, they where in desperate need of Medicines, blood pressure machine, 13 thermometers, and 36 rolls of TP. I ended up getting 2 huge shopping bags full of meds, and then the other stuff... all for $150 american $'s! I also stayed at a hotel that had a hair blow dryer, and the amenities so that I didn't need to pack them.

As far as carry on(s). I was able to take a fairly large handbag, a typical carry-on case filled with enough stuff for a day incase they lost my bags, and I also carried my video camera strapped across my body. They allowed it, so this saved alot of space too.

Remember, that each ticket holder can have 2 large bags, with (I think) a weight limit of 65 or 70 lbs. each. This would allow you a total of 4 bags plus carry-ons. I was able to go through the airport with a total of 2 on wheels and one strapped to a wheeled one by myself.