I’d planned to post more pictures from The Mother of All Road Trips, and write something about our time in every city. But, I’m leaving Tuesday for RWA Nationals, and I have to start packing.
You’d think, maybe, since I just got back from a three-week trip, that I’d have a clue how to pack for six days in Orlando. I thought that, anyway. Until I started reading all the blogs on how and what to pack for Nationals.
Many conference veterans advise things like, “Pack one skirt, one pair of pants, and four tops that you can wear with either.” Huh? My sister packs like this, but this is SO not me. I need choices. Who knows what mood I’ll be in on any given day? Besides, we’re going to be in ORLANDO, which is one big sauna in late July. I can’t see myself wearing anything twice, but that’s just me, and I have some well-documented neuroses.
Then there’s the perennial travel advice, “Bring things you can wear during the day, the slip into evening by changing shoes and accessories.” While this SOUNDS like common sense, my wardrobe simply does not lend itself to this strategy. You really can’t just slip on pearls and heels with khaki pants, a lacy tank, and a sweater and call it evening wear.
My favorite advice was from the woman who advised taking only nude underwear because it works with everything. Okay–this advice I needed months ago, because I don’t have time (or money) to shop for all new underwear between now and Tuesday. I guess I’ll just have to try not to show mine.
But I really do need a new laptop case. And a “little black dress.” Oh, and some Downy wrinkle release. Gotta go shopping. Maybe I should pick up that underwear while I’m out…
Peace, out…
Susan
Now, see… this is what happens when you go a romance writers’ conference. Everything has to be just so elegant, even your..er…make that “especially” your underwear.
I have a simple advice: pack everything. That’s what I’m doing. I’m waiting for DH to come back this week so I can get the big valise. I need a big one, mostly for shoes. They take a lot of space.
Now see, Carole, you and I think alike. 🙂 Bob, I don’t plan on showing mine to anyone, as Sugar will not be making this trip. So, I think I’m okay. 🙂
We like your well-documented neuroses.
Thank you, Phil! It’s a good thing. I suspect my neuroses are here to stay. Actually, I’m pretty attached to some of them. 🙂
I’m an over-packer myself, and can understand the sauna/not rewearing items concern. While others can pack one carryon, I have two, plus a big suitcase. And then I just end up looking like me!
Have a great time!
If you’d go Commando, you’d save packing space and wouldn’t have to worry about panty-pants clashing. It’s the sensible thing to do.
Gladys, ICK. While I understand this is your preference, I had to thing a long time to come up with a scenario where I might run around sans bloomers. It would have to be some sort of dire emergency.
The big question is: are you flying or driving? If flying, then the evil airlines will cost you more than new clothes for all that extra baggage and weight. If you’re driving, tell anyone else riding with you that you NEED all of that stuff. They’ll just have to make room! Or rent a U-Haul.
Three women, one car. Maybe we should consider a U-haul. 🙂