Next trip and luggage

My next trip has changed so many times in focus. There are the photography workshops, my niece, and the Smithsonian.

My initial purpose was to enroll in workshops on selling stock photography. A passion all my life has been photography and I am mostly self taught. This year I decided it was time to learn from the experts and take some lessons; perhaps get rid of some bad habits (should I have any ;-)

Since my niece is now living in the DC area it would be a great opportunity to have some time with her. Unfortunately this is the week she is at home in New Mexico being sworn into the Army Jag Corps.

When I booked the flight I added a couple of days beyond the workshops counting on seeing my niece which now is not to be.

So do I remain in DC or do I come home early? Do I change my flight? What will it cost to do so? Do I park in long term parking? Do I get a cab to the airport? Decisions. Decisions.

The cost of canceling my return flight and booking a new one sent me into a state of shock. I could stay at the best hotels for two nights for less than the price of that last minute airline ticket.

My plan was not to check any luggage. But need to take my camera and tripod. Knowing the airlines can be rigid at times, I suspect the tripod will count as an item. In that case I would have my luggage, a camera bag, a tripod and a purse. Even if I eliminate the purse I am still over their limit. And I have seen agents turning people back at security to check bags.

Now would it be different were I to travel first or business class? Quite likely. Still that is a hefty amount to pay to not have to check luggage. 

My carry on bag has a stuck handle that will not retract or fully open. My brother repaired it for me once when I was visiting him a few months ago. No time now  to have it repaired or to find out if there is somewhere I could send it.  Presumably Rick Steves stands by his luggage and I have only had it less than three years. 

After some internet searching, I realize there is no store to return the Steves luggage to. That prompted me to write a review on Amazon about my experience with this luggage. Then I proceeded to order a Hartman carry on. In my garage are several pieces of Hartman luggage that have withstood several years of travel, but because they do not have wheels it is inconvenient to use. Sometimes you get what you pay for.

Rick Steves...only mine
is Sage in color. A great benefit
when looking for it on the
luggage carousel

Hartman





Just returned home from a San Francisco trip  and am very happy with my new luggage! Fits in overhead bins easily and I think I could pack for a week using it!