Traveling light update

I've been in San Diego for 4 days, and I can honestly say that doing the one bag bit is possible.  It doesn't hurt that I don't have to deal with a winter jacket or heavy sweaters for this trip, but it's been great.

Changing flights in DFW was a snap.  I got lucky that my gate was just 4 away from where I came in, but I was ready for a long walk with my Aeronaut on my back.  I've not used a backpack in years, but I was delightfully surprised at how easy the Aeronaut converted into a backpack, and then it was fairly easy to carry.  The load was distributed fairly comfortably, and I could have hiked a fair ways.

I'm glad I invested in a few other accessories for my trip.  I decided to get a Kit to use for my cosmetic bag instead of the bag I had gotten with purchase from Aveda a few years back.  I thought the Kit sounded a little big when I read the description, but when I got it and compared it to what I had been using, I realized it was smaller, and would take up less space in my carry on.  And if your container is smaller, you'll carefully plan what to put in it.  I found myself being thoughtful about what needed to go on the trip, rather than pack for "just in case."  Ditto for the liquids and gels.  I have the 3D clear organizer cube, which was great.  Remember, the hotels in the US consistently provide soap and shampoo, so unless you have specific skin and/or scalp issues, it will work.  I do have a LUSH shampoo bar just in case.  

I carry electronics with me, and I purchased a padded organizer pouch for my USB modem, thumb drive, and any other small necessities.  It's worked out well so far.

I've gotten comments from my colleagues about the Ristretto, and when I show off the padded pocket for my Dell Mini, they want to know more.  

So what did I fit in the Aeronaut for this trip?

• 6 pairs of undies, bra
• 3 pairs of dress pants
• 1 tank top
• 1 dressy knit jacket
• 3 dressy lightweight tops
• 3 pairs of shoes (2 are sandals, ok?)
• 1 Kit with cosmetics, assorted toiletry items (not filled all the way)
• 1 nightgown (I want to find a lighter one for travel)
• 1 slim leather cosmetic bag with medicines
• 1 1/2" 3 ring binder (music for my piano gig here)
• gifts for friends (chocolates, other goodies)
• 3d clear organizer cube (filled)
• 5 Odwalla protein bars
• 4 quart-sized ziploc bags
• Snake charmer with assorted necessary cords and a Monster Outlets to go-4.
• swimsuit, pareo, goggles, swim cap
• various other small necessities (handkerchief, silk scarf, knee highs which aren't needed here)

I'm a big girl, and was worried about how few changes of clothing I would be able to pack for this trip (larger sized clothes take up more room -- it just makes sense).  It's worked out so far.  The other bit of information worth noting is that I almost always ship a box of stuff from this conference, so it's not like I'm changing those habits by going with one carry on bag.  I did buy a few books and other things that will get shipped Thursday morning.  

I may give another report later on in the week, and I hope to post a photo or two of me with my TB gear, ready to go!