August 10, 2012

For Better or For Worse - Stick a Fork In Me

I can't even tell you how much research I've done on what to pack for this trip. I've scoured the internet, Thorn Tree, and the packing lists of dozens of other backpackers. I've read reviews on Amazon, and Tom and I each tried on 20+ pairs of travel/outdoor pants to compare. We each ordered 4 different pairs of shoes to try out before settling on our final choices. Never in a million years did I think I would hear myself comparing the virtues of various (gasp!) convertible and roll-up waterproof cargos. Only a fanny pack and a set of matching t-shirts separates Tom and I from this:
God Bless America
I am OVER making packing decisions. And that's putting it lightly. I've gone through days where I'm freaking out because I think we need more and days where I'm scolding myself for having too much. I've paired down the first aid bag and then added more stuff to it. And now, with only 22 days left in San Francisco, I'm completely finished. It may be all wrong. I'm sure we don't need some of it. I'm sure I'm forgetting something, but I don't care. My bag is packed, for better or for worse.

And it looks like this:
Steph's Bag
So just how big is it? Smaller than you might think. Here's an awful, self-timer, living room photo of me wearing Beatrice.


What do you think? Too much stuff? Too little? Never mind. Forget I asked. I don't care. Stick a fork in me. I'm done.

5 comments:

  1. Awesome girl! I packed way more and I was only in Asia for 5 weeks!
    -nakia

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    1. I think if I was going for 5 weeks, I would probably pack more! But knowing I have to lug all this around for a YEAR was a huge motivating factor! When did you go to Asia? And where?

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    2. True....well 3 years ago I was selected for a teacher trip to China. Went to several provinces and Inner Mongolia. Then I explored Thailand and Japan solo. Japan has been my favorite of any Latin, European or Asian country so far! I am looking forward to following your journey! We're climbing Joshua Tree soon, but not when you'll be camping. Best!!!

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  2. I think it's a smart choice going with a 45L bag, I found my is easy to carry-on to planes and buses!

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    1. Thanks Dustin! I definitely scouted your packing lists while we were planning. I think I'll be happy with the 45L. My husband has a 55L, but we can fit absolutely EVERYTHING in those 2 packs with room to spare, including our day pack and everything from that bag. I'm sure we'll dump things along the way and pick up other stuff, too.

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