I’m on the fifth load of wash since returning from seven weeks on the road. Everything is getting a washing both dirty and clean clothes.

A friend asked me how I wash clothes on the road. Good question.

The most expensive way is to have the hotel do it. We’re talking $2.50 for casual pants, $1 for a pair of socks, $5 for a dress and other outrageous prices. So when packing for a long trip I take into consideration clothes that are easy to hand wash. It saves money in the long run.

Depending upon the country you are visiting, you may find a “lavanderia”, the Spanish word for a place that will do you wash for you. We paid about 40 cents a pound on our last trip, which was a bargain. One B&B we stayed in did one load of laundry, wash and dry, for $10 US. The problem is mixing darks and lights if you don’t have enough of each for two full loads. Ten dollars for a half a load or less is spendy.

I bring along sample, trial or travel sizes of detergent and hand wash many things. My husband packs a nylon rope to string across the room for drying. Or you can opt for a nifty travel clothesline.

An even better trick than hand washing in a tiny bathroom sink is shower washing. I’ve washed capris, lightweight tees and undies while showering. After drying off with the towel, I wrap and roll the clothing in it to get out the extra moisture. Sometimes I pack along a travel towel that is great for absorbing excess water plus it dries quickly.

Some countries have coin operated Laundromats, but I have found this convenience the exception. When traveling with three children I found them in Seoul and large Japanese cities.

For hand washing bring along a universal sink stopper (most sinks don't have stoppers), laundry detergent (hand soap will work in a pinch) and a travel clothesline or rope. Plus plan ahead. Don’t wash several things on an overnight stay. Wait until you have a couple of days to insure things dry.

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