Packing Already

10 days and counting until that big, beautiful airplane leaves SFO for Heathrow (where I'll connect to Roma).

I'm a pack-the-night-before-you-go kind of girl. But everything about this trip is a bit unusual for me, from the amount of planning time I've had to the amount of details I've tied up prior to leaving. I usually fly a bit more by the seat of my pants. But this trip is different, partly out of caution, partly out of necessity and partly just because I had the time.

After all, a year is a looooooonnnnng time to plan a trip.

But I digress. Back to my packing habits.
Against my long-held, self-imposed tradition of late night, last minute packing, I started packing last night. I generally wait, not because I like to scramble to pack and arrive at the airport exhausted, disheveled and sleep deprived, but because I hate UNPACKING. I hate and LOATHE unpacking of any sort. It reminds me that my trip is over and I have to go back to reality. But I especially hate the type of unpacking done because a bag has been packed too early and the packer needs to use something that's already carefully packed. It's THE WORST.

So last night, when I was just so excited that my trip is fast approaching, I pulled out my trusty (and massive) frame pack, along with my toiletries bag and started pulling old stuff out, updating ziplock baggies full of essentials like a tiny first aid kit and feminine products. I filled up travel-sized shampoo and face wash bottles and replaced razors and batteries. And I made a list of everything else that needs an update that I have to run to the store for. I need sunscreen and ibuprofen and travel-sized toothpaste. I must get travel-sized contact solution. And I must remember to pack a poncho. (After all, it's been unseasonably wet around the world this year.)

And all of that is just the beginning. But I won't bore you with any more trivialities.

I suppose it's a good thing that I pulled out the pack and began to prep so early. But at the same time, I'll be double-checking everything the night before I go all the same. Just for peace of mind, you know?

I've said it before and I'll say it again: Over prepare. Then go with the flow.

PS, I'm just about finished with my guide to picking the perfect cruise.
And stay tuned for my guide to packing a backpack for travel.