In Reply to: instead of suitcases? posted by gbt on Sunday, 9. August 2009 at 19:04 Bali Time:
...two duffle type bags. They both weigh approximately 2.5kgs each because one of them has wheels at one end and the pull out handle. The one with wheels cost me $60 from a luggage shop at DFO in Melbourne.
I realise this may be a bit pricey but I decided to buy it and use it for any future trips and it's really quite large. When we go away for a weekend, it will be large enough for all clothing, toiletries, shoes etc for the 5 of us and because it has wheels and a pull out handle, it's not hard to carry.
The other bag we are taking is my scuba diving bag that I've had for over 20 years. Hasn't been used as a dive bag for many years and has been scrubbed etc but it is made from such strong canvas and the zips are very heavy duty, it's done a lot of travelling and still in fantastic condition. Obviously it's original purpose was to carry heavy dive gear so very tough.
We use cable ties instead of padlocks (just remember to have something in a side pocket of luggage (not carry on!) to cut them off and also remember to take some for the return trip home (helps when husband is a sparky!).
I've also put a large duffle bag that has no sides with stiff seams rolled up in one of the bags.
One more tip we always do when travelling if we have 2 bags is to split all our clothing and toiletries in half and pack half in each bag so at least if one gets lost, we've got stuff to get us through until the other bag shows up. Just hope both bags don't go astray!
I do also carry on bathers, sarong, shorts etc for the whole family in carry on luggage.
Hope this helps.