What I packed… (Chiara edition)

As you all know, Tarick and I have different styles in many realms — packing included! While Tarick went minimal, I went all-out with the packing. Partially, this is because preparing my pack was my permitted “fun” activity when I was studying for the SE. Put another way, I’ve had many, many months to overthink it.

Tarick and I had similar approaches to clothing and backpacks, so I won’t get too much into that– just read his post. I’ll just say that I am using an Osprey Porter 46 pack, which has more structure than Tarick’s pack (i.e. the walls don’t fall down when it’s empty). I like this because it feels more like a “home” for some reason. I also have a purse that I’m going to use as a day bag. It contains the items I want to access more often.

Here’s what my bags look like, exploded all over a bed:

I’ll just focus the interesting stuff, rather than listing everything (I’m just too lazy — if you have a specific question let me know).

• Art supplies: I packed a large quantity of artist tiles (small square pieces of thick paper) along with a couple media for drawing on them (pens, colored pencils, watercolor). My goal is to draw on one tile each day — a form of artistic journaling. Wish me luck! If they look good and I stick with it, I’ll share on here.
• Bowl and mug: They take up valuable room, and will we even use them? Obviously, I think so, but it’s up for debate. I like the idea of having basic tools for preparing tea/coffee and food. That said, I’m willing to admit I’m wrong if we never use them.
• Shawl: I find a shawl useful for so many things. It can serve as a blanket, headscarf, or something to sit on.
• Earplugs/eyemask: Great for being more in control of your senses! I use both often in my “regular” life.

In terms of technology, I’ll just say that Kindles are amazing — it’s unbelievable how much knowledge and literature you can pack into a purse. Add in the availability of ebooks through local libraries, and it really feels like the world is at our fingertips! For free! I also invested in a small portable charger (for phones, cameras, etc), and I think I’ll very soon forget what it was like to live without one.

It exciting and strange to be living out of this bag for a year. I’ve already forgotten what on earth is in our 5′ x 10′ storage unit.