Packing Tip

So, when packing for a trip you should NEVER pack more than you can carry. Or, don't pack multiple suitcases that you can lift individually but then when you add them all up will weigh more than you. I think we briefly thought about this - and although we are normally known as light packers and we managed to backpack around the world for 8 months with one pack each - somehow this time we thought since we were coming to live in one place we were exempt from this rule.

Not true. Especially when you find out the place that was going to store your bags while you then take 2 trains and 2 buses and walk about a mile total to get to your 3 day destination is actually closed because of the Euro 2008. So yes, we ended up having to take our 2 backpacks, 2 suitcases, 2 carry-ons, and 2 purse/small backpack up to Lausanne and then back to Geneva with us. We may save $100 in groceries and toiletries costs, but I don't think the extra luggage and back pain was worth it.

Moral of story: pack 1/2 of what you think you need, be sure you can carry it, and bring multiple sweaters to Switzerland no matter what time of the year you come.