The scientific theory I like best is that the rings of Saturn are composed entirely of lost airline luggage. —Mark Russell
If you hate worrying about lost luggage, waiting at the baggage carousel, or relying on airport personnel to move your bags, then the one-bag approach to packing is for you.
Getting a week's worth of clothing and toiletries into a single bag is not for the faint of heart. You have to be brutal. First, don't take anything you can borrow from your hotel or from the friend you'll be visiting. That means leaving behind the hair dryer, travel iron, shampoo and conditioner, and even the nifty little kits that your friends love to give as gifts for frequent flyers.
Your next step is to pare down the clothing. A quick-drying shirt or slacks and a small packet of detergent can substitute for two or three clothing items if you don't mind hanging wet laundry in the hotel bathroom. Don't forget that most hotels have laundry service.
Wear as many of the clothing items as you can. Anything you can't fit into shoulder bags and totes (such as winter coats, suit jackets or heavy sweaters) can be stashed in the overhead compartment after you board.
All of your clothing can do double duty if you coordinate your colors. For example, the navy blazer will look great with a white shirt and with another pastel color if you change the accessories (ties for guys, jewelry or a silk scarf for the ladies). You can wear tan or gray slacks and skirts with it. Be sure to invest in travel clothing that doesn't wrinkle easily.
You don't have to agonize over socks or hose and underwear. They don't take up much room and can be crammed into your briefcase, the front pocket of your shoulder bag or even a large handbag. Remember, though, that airport security might be dumping your leopard-print thong out for all to see.
Good hiking shoes can double as boots in cold climates. Wear them on board and pack the shoes you plan to wear for business meetings or dressing up. Don't bother with bedroom slippers. Thick socks or flip-flops will do just fine and serve other uses as well.
If you're going to a sunny climate, bring one of those crushable hats to keep the sun out of your eyes and off your face. For cold weather, a good quality stocking hat is best to help you retain body heat.
You can also try for the disposable approach. Wear clothes you were going to discard anyway. Leave them behind to make room for new clothes you bought while traveling.
You can bring two carry-on items aboard with you. Make the best of it. Pack a small purse to use as a handbag inside a larger shoulder bag or tote. Then you'll have a second carry-on bag.
Bring a disposable camera. In fact, leaving film in your checked baggage isn't a good idea anyway. Leave heavy cameras at home unless you're going to be doing some serious photography. Then you can worry less about having someone steal your expensive digital camera.
If you can't live without technology, consider a PDA (personal digital assistant). You can then leave behind your address book, checklists and computer. Make sure the battery's charged, though, and keep paper copies of your e-ticket number and other travel information, just in case.
Finally, if you're planning to shop for souvenirs, you may have to break down and lug two totes back home. Tuck an empty one into a side pocket and pack it with your treasures.