Living out of a suitcase.....

So--in the last 5 years, I think I've perfected this art. Especially since, a couple weeks ago, I successfully slept in my CAR because of a delayed plane.

So--here's some of my ideas on how to do this on a regular basis:

1. Get rid of as much of the big stuff as you can--buy a lot of travel sized items!

2. Buy outfits and shoes that can go with lots of stuff--and each other--so you can attempt to do things with only 1 pair of shoes and a couple outfits.

3. Pack a wind-breaker. Just trust me on that one!

4. Pack an alarm clock. A small one that doesn't use batteries. Trust me on that one too.

5. When possible--don't check baggage.

6. When traveling some where familiar--like family (which I travel back and forth on a constant basis)--pack a suit case with all your clothes, and a shoulder type bag with your toiletries and pajamas/underwear. That way--when you get there--you can just grab that bag, and not worry about the suitcase (cause likely you'll be getting there late--and will be too tired to care--at least I always am). Sometimes I just pack an extra change of clothing too--simplifies things. Oh--this helps when packing to move (which I'm becoming way too good at as well!!!)

7. Inevitably, you will forget something. So--become really good at making things out of what you can find at Walgreens or CVS or another convenience store. I've made a scarf out of a headband, bought substitutes for things I've forgotten, etc.

8. The new trick I've been taught, to save money, is buy snacks/lunch stuff you can buy (helps if you have a fridge in your hotel/motel room)--especially when at a conference and you know lunch food will cost a fortune.

9. Always, always, always pack fingernail clippers, toenail clippers, a little pair of scissors, and an emery board. Just trust me on that too (oh--and ear plugs and a sleeping pill can be helpful too).

10. This really doesn't have to do with living out of a suitcase--but as I'm just not the best mass transport user, I've recently found that when all else fails (or I just really don't want to hail a cab)--go into a nice hotel and tip the door man to do it (whether you're staying there or not!). So. much. easier.

So--there you go--your total random information for the night!