Loose Change

I like to pack light (I hate to check in luggage) but I also tend to stay as short a time as possible, too.  So what to pack?

Light, indestructible clothing that doesn’t need ironing, and since I’m miserable without cotton, that means cotton knits for shirts or dresses for me -- that tends to limit the old wardrobe.  I try to make sure all my clothes can mix and match. (M -- Crinkle Cottons are another alternative -- cause if you wrinkle it -- who cares?)

Ipod or something like it  -- because really, sometimes you need to tune out

Vaio -- not as small as all the pricey e-readers but able to let me download, edit and read with a minimum of fuss.  And it is small enough that I can usually pack it in my carryon if I need to -- with the sleeve, I swear!!

Bandaids, nail file and safety pins.  Because you never know what you might tear.

Popcorn cakes.  I love popcorn cakes.  Low cal and transportable.  Buy some water once you’re past security, too.  Because, dang, who wants to pay for water on the plane and have to wait to get it, too?

Sweater -- no matter what the temperature outside.  Because at a convention you dress for convention hall weather.

Flat, slip on shoes.  No matter what you wear later, the airport security check should go as fast as possible and who wants to be hopping up and down in a crowded hall in bare feet?

Cell phone with all the updated numbers of everyone you need or might need to call on it. AND the cell charger.  And, even more importantly, remember to take the charger home with you.  I’ve been told that’s one of the number one items people forget in hotels.

While you’re at it, make sure you have all the important email addys in your travel laptop.

Only what you absolutely must have in your wallet.  If you’re renting a car, that includes your car insurance info.  (Something I usually do forget.)

I could also talk about unpacking when you get to the convention -- I've made a study of it with my assorted hotel mates over the years and I'm sure there are fascinating psychological reasons why one has to unpack and use bureau drawers or toss clothes everywhere or have the window bed.  But that's probably a different topic entirely.

(And we won't even talk about checking your email at 4AM with every light in the room on while sharing a room with M, or the danger that represents to one's lifespan...)
 

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