Test Pack

Today I did an almost-complete "Test Pack" for Scotland. Without putting anything into my backpack I determined that I can easily bring everything I need and still meet the luggage guidelines of our tour--one large suitcase, one small carry-on, stricter even than the airline protocols. At least our tour doesn't care if we have liquids or scissors. Previously I struggled to limit my belongings to my small car, and while that included some furniture and lamps, it's a big difference.

My plan is to buy small things once I settle at the uni (what Brits call college)--like shampoo, which I can also steal from hotels. I have all the essentials I need. Interesting, 'essentials' seems to comprise: my laptop including accessories, clothes, and... my knitting needles. (I am quite the old lady. I have this dream of buying real Scottish yarn spun from real Scottish sheep's wool and knitting a real Scottish cardigan/scarf/mittens.)

I can't decide if my 'packing light' will be something I regret or something liberating. Is it crazy or adventurous?

That depends on how well I handle wearing the same clothes every week.

Right now I lean towards "liberating and adventurous". While I'm sure I could easily fill a second suitcase... packing just one forces me to prioritize the objects in my life. It is the real-life version of the desert island icebreaker game, only I think you learn more by examining what is left behind.

Pre-departure

First things first: Hi, and welcome to my travel blog! I won't be leaving for Scotland until September, but I want to get the blog set up before I go and make sure everything is in working order before I'm an ocean away.

A friend of mine recently spent his summer in Jordan and used a blog to write down his stories and keep in touch with family and friends at home. It worked out so well I was inspired to do the same for my study abroad experience this next year.

I don't foresee my writings being extremely personal; I do hope to use this space to write down stories, make note of slang I learn, post or link to pictures, without burdening your inboxes with emails and updates. You can check back here whenever you like--or you can check back never, I won't be offended.

Also, I realize that green may not be the ideal color for a Scotland travel blog, but that is too bad. There are cool map images at the top! You can't beat that.