jread

the goal was to pack light. minimalistic.
but it’s the third time I’ve gone traveling with the intention of staying in one place for some indefinite duration – and I always over-pack for the backpacking portion – and under-pack for the staying in one spot.

so as a backpacker the first two weeks of the journey, here’s how I could have done better:

MORE SOCKS (I brought one silly pair – small running pair – assuming LONDON, like Florida, would be warm in May);
more yoga-type-harem pants (I ended up wearing the same 2 pairs, due to the hassle of rummaging through my shit, one being jeans — but more quick-to-dry pairs were desirable);
just one pair of jeans will suffice if the above is achieved (I had packed 2 – these take up space and stay damp longer);
three shirts which can serve multiple purposes (again, the hassle of rummaging through my shit and waking up other backpakers in the dorm when I want to sneak out on my own at 6am without someone inviting themself – caused me to alternate through the same 3 or so simple tees/tanks) & plus when you shower in one, therefore it’s wet, you want another (two?) to choose from;
less shower shit – ONE bar of soap is enough for everything and can be replaced at any farmers market (unless you’re into toxic chemicals then a cheap bar at the cheap grocery chain);
underwear x 2 (same thing – wash each day in the sink/shower – alternate each day – hang on bed with S-hook – they dry quick);
speaking of S-hooks: these come in SUPER handy for hanging bags or drying clothes or general organizing. that’s something I did right;
BOOTS! I was torn at the last minute and ended up leaving these behind due to space constraints 🙁
a GOOD coffee mug (if you’re into coffee). good idea for a few reasons: I hate wasting disposable cups and if you get one that closes properly you can use it for all your liquids and throw it in and out of your bag all day!

This is based on my experience, the backpacking portion. Stay tuned for the living-in-Paris segment. I’m already thinking I’ll ship a box of shit home a day before I leave my appartement.