Packing light for an airplane flight for a tournament

[Gut4Tennis]

I've always been almost obsessed with bringing lots of gear to a tournament. I guess reading Brad Gilberts book, winning ugly, made an impression on me

If I was a pro and had my bag in the bag check segment for the tennis channel, it would be talked about and remembered by many for the crazy amount of things that I fit in there. :twisted:

So I have decided on my next national event where I fly far away, to try and pack extra light. I might even save 50 bucks each way for not having to check a bag.

Does anyone have any tips on packing light?

I figure I will bring everything I need in 1 backpack, and keep my 12 pack behind. Less is more right?

I will just wash my clothes a few times.

3 tennis outfits( shirts, shorts, compression skins underwear, socks)
3 tennis racquets & a few sets of string
1 hat, a few wrist bands, a warm up suit (which I'll wear on the flight)
1 pair of shoes ( will wear)
1 pair of vibram five fingers

I will try as hard as I can to just take whatever can fit in the backpack
http://www.tennis-warehouse.com/Prince_Tour_Team_Bags_Green/descpageBGPRINCE-PTTBGBP.html

and carry the frames in my hand

I can bring a towel from the hotel and buy anything else I need

any ideas?

 

[g4driver]

I travel for a living- traveling light has it's appeal, but traveling too light and you miss things you wish you would have brought.

My suggestion: bring a backpack, and a 12 pack bag. Get rid of non essential stuff, but extra clothes, a 1/2 gallon cooler, mini medicine/first aid kit, a heating pad (two back surgeries) travel with me to every tournament I play.

Not sure where you are going, but bringing a 12 pack and a backpack on a bag will cost you nothing. The 12 pack fits in the overhead bins on an MD-88, MD-90, and anything built by Boeing and Airbus. Avoid flying on a regional jet (RJ) and NEVER ever check your frames when flying.

And don't forget your cell phone charger.

 

[Gut4Tennis]

I travel for a living- traveling light has it's appeal, but traveling too light and you miss things you wish you would have brought.

My suggestion: bring a backpack, and a 12 pack bag. Get rid of non essential stuff, but extra clothes, a 1/2 gallon cooler, mini medicine/first aid kit, a heating pad (two back surgeries) travel with me to every tournament I play.

Not sure where you are going, but bringing a 12 pack and a backpack on a bag will cost you nothing. The 12 pack fits in the overhead bins on an MD-88, MD-90, and anything built by Boeing and Airbus. Avoid flying on a regional jet (RJ) and NEVER ever check your frames when flying.

And don't forget your cell phone charger.

woahhhhhh are you sure I can walk on with my 12 pack bag??? and a back pack??

really??

flying across country

thanks for the great info buddy. much much much appreciated

 

[thejackal]

I travel for a living- traveling light has it's appeal, but traveling too light and you miss things you wish you would have brought.

My suggestion: bring a backpack, and a 12 pack bag. Get rid of non essential stuff, but extra clothes, a 1/2 gallon cooler, mini medicine/first aid kit, a heating pad (two back surgeries) travel with me to every tournament I play.

Not sure where you are going, but bringing a 12 pack and a backpack on a bag will cost you nothing. The 12 pack fits in the overhead bins on an MD-88, MD-90, and anything built by Boeing and Airbus. Avoid flying on a regional jet (RJ) and NEVER ever check your frames when flying.

And don't forget your cell phone charger.

good tips here. I fly quite a bit as well, and have never needed more than a 12 pack and a medium duffle bag. both go in the overhead. if youre going to a colder climate, just wear the bulky stuff on you.

 

[g4driver]

Avoid flying on non-mainline carriers who fly CRJs 200s and the smaller Embraer 135/140/145 series.

http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Embraer

http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Embraer_145

http://en.m.wikipedia.org//Bombardier_CRJ20

Avoid the CRJS 200/700s and the Embraer 135/140/145 fleet and you will be golden.


The CRJ 700 is ????


But the Embraer 170/175/190/195 jets will hold your 12 pack (pad frames with clothes and don't have it busting at the seams and it will fit). You likely have to turn it sideways to get in the bin, so don't cram it completely full.

http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Embraer_E-Jet_family

http://seatexpert.com/blogs/ask_the...maximum-sized-carry-on-bags-for-regional-jets

Any jet flown by Jetblue or Southwest will hold your 12 pack bag in the overhead bin. Any jet made by Boeing or Airbus, and the MD-88/90 will have plenty of room in the overbid for your bags. Just make sure you aren't the last guy on the jet.

I have flown with various college teams when the entire team bringing 12 packs on board. On more than one occasion.

Before you buy a ticket, know what jets the company uses. I stick with Delta mainline and Southwest and I never seen an issue with a 12 pack.

 

[Sumo]

good tips here. I fly quite a bit as well, and have never needed more than a 12 pack and a medium duffle bag. both go in the overhead. if youre going to a colder climate, just wear the bulky stuff on you.

Not cool.

10notcools

 

[thejackal]

Not cool.

10notcools

So is the time you get stuck between a guy whos 6'5 and another whos 300lb. But that's (commercial) flying. Maximize what you can.

 

[Arsnlrob]

Going to nationals last month in Indian Wells my wife was made to check her 9pack bag at the gate but I got to carry mine on board. Both were the same size. Be prepared for totally random decisions by airline staff

 

[Gut4Tennis]

awesome info guys/gals. im sure this info can help many many people. well done. thanks.

keep em coming

 

[Maui19]

I wouldn't avoid the regional jets. You just gate check your bag--no big deal.

 

[Cindysphinx]

Pick a seat in the back of the plane. You might be called to board first when the bins are empty.

 

[g4driver]

I wouldn't avoid the regional jets. You just gate check your bag--no big deal.

It can be a big deal. Why risk it if you don't have too? I wouldn't ever gate check my frames on any airline . If you check golf clubs, use a sturdy case.

Don't ever check a bag with : electronic equipment, cameras, medicine you can't easily replace, or car keys. It has al been done.

I fly on jets 12-16 days per month ( unless I am on vacation), and avoid CRJs unless I don't have any other option. Thankfully, I normally find plenty of other options.

The last thing I want is a ramper dropping my frames and then having then run over with belt-loader or luggage train. If you do check your bag, pull your frames out and hand care on the jet.

Sure your bag might go unscathed if you check, but why take the chance?

 

[g4driver]

Google United Breaks Guitars-

Dave Carroll didn't have a choice , he had to check his Taylor- it turned into a public relations nightmare for Untied.

Taylor Guitars scored big PR for helping Dave Carroll with his fight vs United.

http://youtu.be/5YGc4zOqozo

http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Breaks_Guitars

http://sentium.com/a-public-relatio...-airlines-10772839-negative-views-on-youtube/

Again, don't check frames , if you get told to check your 12 pack, pull your frames out and hand carry.

 

[sureshs]

What about water bottle? Or do you plan to just drink bottled water or Gatorade?

 

[struggle]

What about water bottle? Or do you plan to just drink bottled water or Gatorade?

i was waiting for someone to mention the water bottle. (not really)
a camelback type bladder is perfect for such. (however)

 

[spinorama]

It took me a few minutes to understand that "12-pack" wasn't a reference to beer. Because that would have been awesome

 

[Gut4Tennis]

What about water bottle? Or do you plan to just drink bottled water or Gatorade?

I unlike most drink only from glass. When I arrive I will head to whole foods, buy 5-8 glass mineral waters, then get them refilled for 49 cents a gallon or something.

Or in a pinch, I just buy a gallon of water in a jug at some supermarket.

I will use plastic if I have too, but prefer glass for the taste, health, and earth friendly

I make my own electrolyte mixture with, water, organic white grape juice, lemon, and pink Himalayan salt. Works like a boss

 

[Maui19]

It can be a big deal. Why risk it if you don't have too? I wouldn't ever gate check my frames on any airline . If you check golf clubs, use a sturdy case.

Don't ever check a bag with : electronic equipment, cameras, medicine you can't easily replace, or car keys. It has al been done.

I fly on jets 12-16 days per month ( unless I am on vacation), and avoid CRJs unless I don't have any other option. Thankfully, I normally find plenty of other options.

The last thing I want is a ramper dropping my frames and then having then run over with belt-loader or luggage train. If you do check your bag, pull your frames out and hand care on the jet.

Sure your bag might go unscathed if you check, but why take the chance?

Why take the chance? Because sometimes the only option is to fly regional jets or drive.

And we're not talking musical instruments here. Tennis racquets are pretty darn sturdy. I'd worry about golf clubs before I'd worry about a racquet. YMMV.

 

[Gut4Tennis]

Why take the chance? Because sometimes the only option is to fly regional jets or drive.

And we're not talking musical instruments here. Tennis racquets are pretty darn sturdy. I'd worry about golf clubs before I'd worry about a racquet. YMMV.

you can't be serious


I think its much easier to break/crack a tennis racquet vs a golf club. wow

carry the racquets on is very good advice and should be followed always if you have to check the bag. always

 

[g4driver]

Why take the chance? Because sometimes the only option is to fly regional jets or drive.

And we're not talking musical instruments here. Tennis racquets are pretty darn sturdy. I'd worry about golf clubs before I'd worry about a racquet. YMMV.

Hand carrying your frames is a better choice.

If you fly on a RJ, gate check the bag with your clothes, but pull your frames out first.

My user name gives a clue as to my occupation, and why I advise not EVER checking your frames on ANY airline. If my suggestions don't register,,well, stick to your plan.

Gut4tennis, I think you understand my point. Best wishes on your next trip.

 

[sureshs]

I think carrying just one pair of shoes is too dangerous. You can't easily find the brand, model and size in a panic situation. A simple water spill can make them unwearable for some time.

 

[Gut4Tennis]

I think carrying just one pair of shoes is too dangerous. You can't easily find the brand, model and size in a panic situation. A simple water spill can make them unwearable for some time.

I always wear my tennis outfit and warm up on the plane along with shoes. this way if they were to ever lose my bags I would still be ok with outfits, shoes and racquets. I agree I should have a second pair and will do so thanks.

 

[205bacdoc]

I unlike most drink only from glass. When I arrive I will head to whole foods, buy 5-8 glass mineral waters, then get them refilled for 49 cents a gallon or something.

Or in a pinch, I just buy a gallon of water in a jug at some supermarket.

I will use plastic if I have too, but prefer glass for the taste, health, and earth friendly

I make my own electrolyte mixture with, water, organic white grape juice, lemon, and pink Himalayan salt. Works like a boss

What's your ratio/mixture for your electro mix. . . I have also made a few of my own and curious to try this mixture, thanks.

 

[Gut4Tennis]

What's your ratio/mixture for your electro mix. . . I have also made a few of my own and curious to try this mixture, thanks.

25 oz container

1. 20 oz water ( reverse osmosis preferred)
2. 2-4 oz organic white grape juice ( depends on how you like it). If you drink water separate you can make it with 4oz. ( 32 oz costs me 5-7 bucks)
You can adjust to make it sweeter if you like.
3. splash of organic lemon juice ( some like more or less) ( 16oz is 4-5 bucks)
4. splash of braggs raw apple cider vinegar with mother
5. pinch of pink Himalayan salt ( some like or need more or less) ( 1/2 teaspoon per gallon of water is perfect to get plenty without it tasting salty)

The Himalayan pink salt has 84 trace minerals the body needs. You must use this Himalayan pink salt. Trader Joes sells a 4.5 oz grinder of it for 3 bucks. You can put the small pebbles of the salt in the mix as it should dissolve with some shaking.

I eat a bite or 2 of a banana on each change over, and take 1 hammer endurolytes pill

enjoy

 

[Maui19]

you can't be serious


I think its much easier to break/crack a tennis racquet vs a golf club. wow

Really? Try breaking a 7 iron over your knee, then try that with a tennis racquet. I think you'll find the 7 iron is easy to break where the tennis racquet is very hard to break.

Anyway, good luck with your trip.

 

[Sumo]

Really? Try breaking a 7 iron over your knee, then try that with a tennis racquet. I think you'll find the 7 iron is easy to break where the tennis racquet is very hard to break.

Anyway, good luck with your trip.

While true, you could also point out how easy it is to break a racquet by smashing it on the ground. I've never lost a club to that.

I think it's safer to check golf clubs. The baggage handlers see them all the time and are used to handling them.

 

[sureshs]

The Himalayan pink salt has 84 trace minerals the body needs.

Does every serving have it? Are all sources equally reliable?

I would rather pop a comprehensive multivitamin to be sure.

 

[RobFL]

Gut, good topic here, I've been trying to shrink my tournament travel footprint for a couple years. Here are my methods, i'd like to pick up a few more tips to go even lighter but I think I've hit the point of diminishing returns.
--I have a rollaboard that's about 28x14x8. I can put my tennis bag and the rest of my clothes, etc inside the rollaboard. I don't try to carry it on, but can get it thru security, then gate check it, which helps a little. If a flight is really empty, they have let it on, maybe 15% of the time, but I really don't even try to do that. I can get down to 1 checked bag doing this.
--bought a 2nd tennis bag which is a thin, 2-pack Prince. It can actually hold about 4 rackets stuffed. Usually switch to this bag for travel.
--My other combination is a standard, carry on size rollaboard plus the small Prince tennis bag. This combo gets on the flight no problem. Laptop for work goes in the Prince bag. Rather than my briefcase, I only take a laptop in a thin case and a notebook for work, both inside the Prince bag.
--I like the nuun product a lot for electrolytes and they take up almost no space.
--only 2 pairs of shoes, one pr to play in. Second pr for everything else, either good running shoes, loafers, etc. Only 2-3 rackets.
--Find the closest Whole Foods and that is my main meals place.
--if its in a humid area and you're still alive on the 3rd or 4th day, I have not found a way around doing a load of wash.
--buy 3-4 key items at the destination

That's about it. Would like to learn a couple more tricks on traveling even lighter....

 

[Gut4Tennis]

Does every serving have it? Are all sources equally reliable?

I would rather pop a comprehensive multivitamin to be sure.

yes every serving has it. Taking a multi as well is recommended. The multi wont help you from loss of electrolytes, but the pink Himalayan salt will.