As someone who’s not really crazy about traveling, I spend a lot of thoughtful time preparing for when I do. For me, the anxiety and hassle of the airport, of immigration/customs and packing the perfect luggage is far more exciting than the actual destination (because when you get there, it’s just alright).

There are a lot of things in your life you can’t control, but the closest thing to perfect control is when you’re able to handle challenging events and situations that come your way because you just happen to have the right stuff in your bags- a condom (joke!!!), swimming trunks, a Covid test kit, toiletries specific to different climates, extra undies, diarrhoa tablets, oral care strips, a Peter Thomas Roth gold mask, three styles of sunglasses, a fully paid-off credit card.

I’m not a naturally organised person by nature, but I suddenly become one when I pack.

December is several months away, but I’m halfway there through my lists- Christmas gifts (must be small and weigh next to nothing!) and outfit list (what to wear on the flight, what to change into when we land, etc.). I’ve learned a lesson from last year’s trip; it’s way too hot for hoodies, pants and even underwear, so the shortlist for what to bring is very short.

Inexplicably, we only get one (massive) single checked luggage, but there’s a silver lining to that; that’s your lot. You have exactly 30 kilos to work with.

Well, if only life in general were that specific, we’d all be better off!

(Getting a new backpack and trying to pick which one will work best).