<DIV>The rip-stop bag should protect it. I am taking mine taped in half a plastic table cloth, the kind which is rather heavy and has flannel on the back, simply because it will not be a thing of value to me so I can throw it away at the airport and replace it with something else on return. It is a very good idea to cover your pack so the straps and fabric will be protected. <BR>For some reason they <U>always</U> open and inspect my luggage but they are very good to retape and make it secure again. </DIV>
<DIV>I have never had any trouble with vitamins and even with my prescription drugs. But I hear that it can be a hassle. I will have vitamins, fosamax, and celebrex along. </DIV>
<DIV>How exciting for it to be your first trip outside the USA! It is a little frightening the first time through strange airports in a different language but it will be okay. Have a wonderful trip! People are very kind. </DIV>
<DIV>I have never come across an information booth where they did not speak English and they are usually very helpful.</DIV>
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV>Deanna<BR><B><I>Carla Dolce <cjdolceaYAHOO.COM></I></B> wrote:</DIV>
<BLOCKQUOTE class=replbq style="PADDING-LEFT: 5px; MARGIN-LEFT: 5px; BORDER-LEFT: #1010ff 2px solid">I am traveling from USA (Denver) to London then to<BR>Biarritz and on to St. Jean Pied de Port to start the<BR>Camino. I have never traveled outside US.<BR><BR>My only luggage is, of course, my back pack. Because<BR>of the many straps and strings on the back pack, I am<BR>placing it in a rip-stop nylon laundry bag to check it<BR>at the airport. Is this a reasonable way to take the<BR>back pack to minimize damage? The only alternative I<BR>can think of is a cardboard box. Any suggestions for<BR>the best way to check the packpack at the airport will<BR>be appreciated.<BR><BR>(I don't think I can carry it on board because of the<BR>Swiss army knife nail clips, etc.)<BR><BR>Also, I am taking many vitamins and supplements, which<BR>I repackaged in small plastic baggies to avoid the<BR>weight of the original containers. Does anyone know<BR>of any restrictions on getting vitamins
and<BR>supplements (including the hormone DHEA) past customes<BR>in London or Biarritz?<BR><BR>Thank you!<BR>CJD<BR></BLOCKQUOTE>