The Packing Woes of an Excessive Organized Traveller

Every time I travel, I say to myself…this time will be different. I make hollow promises to myself that I will not give into the need to pack as if I am heading to a hidden bunker deep in the woods. The reality is that I simply want to be prepared. My packing puts most emergency kits to shame. For I am a walking drugstore, a drive-thru first aid kiosk and half of Wal-Mart all rolled into one. Starting with my feet, I have scrubs, blister spray, foot powder, blister pack band-aids and even peppermint cream for my tender tootsies.

I have two kinds of razor and three cans of shaving cream. Before anyone jumps to the conclusion that I am a hairy relative of Ron Pearlman (The Beast) or King Kong, let’s make it clear, they were all on sale and came as a three pack. I digressed only when I had come to the realization that one small can would do. I was stumped when I had to choose one body crème…it was a toss of Ginger Zinger, Blueberry Bellini or Country Thyme. I compromised by buying small bottles and putting each one into separate containers. Problem solved! Even though I stared packing a month ago, I still found myself buying one last sleepwear outfit, which struck me as funny as at home there appears no need for one. It is as if the vacation vortex opens up and places some magical spell over you, tempting you to impulse buy things you will probably never use! At this point, I have encroached on my boyfriend’s baggage and asked sweetly to share whatever space he has. He reluctantly agrees, then winces when I start loading him up with girlie products and things a man would never be able to identify. I push my luck when I ask him to load up my Cosmopolitan magazines, even though I know the truth is he takes them to read while on his king Throne. When he is not looking, I slip in an extra pair of earrings, another bikini top, and my travelling journals. Unfortunately, I am caught in my little game when he takes his weighing device and holds up the baggage. He gives me a look that begs to know what else I have added to bulk up his luggage. Meanwhile as I continue to try to cram everything I can amongst the Band-Aids, tums, packages of floss, make-up and shoes, I spot a wee space in the corner of one of my bags. I am delighted as I am sure I still fit another five items into that particular spot.