Do you know this person very well? If not, there is something slightly "off" about him telling a colleague how many pairs of shoes his girlfriend is taking to Italy.

If he "wants the opinion of another woman", you probably should explain to him that people are individuals, and what other people pack is largely irrelevant.

Is he going on the trip as well? Does he seem like a "controlling" person?
You're right, Pam. He was seeking an opinion in particular, a woman. He sits near me at work. I did say it depends on the person. But clearly he hates having checked in baggage. And he knows for me as a cyclist, I've just become more streamlined in vacation baggage packing. I have to say, cycle touring truly has changed me alot how much less I pack in general to still enjoy a trip.

Yea, NBYNW. Even between Calgary and Vancouver in winter, I have to plot my way a tad, on clothing a bit. Meaning what type of jacket/coat I will wear on the plane/getting off and getting home..ie. The 2 cities can have markedly different temperatures, but right now it's unusually warm in the prairies.