I’ve done it, the near impossible. Two checked bags and a carry-on later (and some help from Sonny’s for my heavy, wonderful shoes), and my life is packed and ready to go to Japan. It only took me three, maybe four, okay five times tops to repack until my bags made the 50-lb weight limit. I may or may not have weighed them on three different scales for ultimate verification..
So what am I bringing? And what was left behind?
* Professional Clothes √
Teaching in Japan, I am expected to dress professionally and conservative. No jeans, no tees, no problems. I’ve loaded up on dress pants and button down shirts. Jackets are also mandatory, except on days that you are teaching young children.
* Everyday Clothes √
For my days off, I’ve included a few pairs of jeans, shorts, and a bunch of lightweight, flowy tops. Adding to that, the usual undergarments, two bathing suits, and plenty of workout apparel for future hikes and well, work-out related things. (Also for days when I just feel like comfort > fashion).
* Outerwear √
I’m carrying my heaviest coat on the plane to wear immediately when I arrive in Osaka. The forecast shows it being in the upper 30’s. I’ve packed a handful of sweaters and jackets, leggings, scarves, gloves, and headbands.
* Shoes √
Although I’m still guilty of bringing around 8-10 pairs, I left at least 15 pairs behind! I mainly focused on two pairs of boots for the cold weather, a few pairs of flats, two pairs of low heels for work, a pair of black wedges for going out, and a pair of running shoes. I said goodbye to several pairs of heels, boots, and flip flops!
* Electronics √
What would a girl do without her Macbook Pro, iPad, and Samsung NX300 camera? And can’t forget the iPhone 6, freshly unlocked for my Japanese adventure! Additionally, I’m bringing beats headphones (thanks Brandon & Mandy!), a travel adapter kit, Rosetta Stone for Japanese, several apple charger cords, two USB’s with tons of movies & TV shows on them, an Apple TV, an HDMI cord, and a mini external hard drive… I am carrying all of my electronics and gadgets with me in my backpack on the planes. Hoping they’ll be safer and less prone to any travel damage that way!
* Jewelry √
My sister got me this amazing jewelry holder with tons of pockets. It folds really nicely in a suitcase! I’ve loaded it up with all my costume jewelry and anything that is inexpensive, which is honestly almost everything. My nicer things (Pandora bracelet, Alex & Ani bracelets, diamond stud earrings, and promise ring) are all going with me on the plane. Not taking any chances with security getting greedy!
* Travel Documents √
Passport, work visa, and Certificate of Eligibility… you know, the important stuff that I actually need to begin teaching in Japan. 😉 Again, all packed in my backpack for safe keeping.
* Toiletries & Cosmetics √
Surprisingly, this was easier than I thought. I left behind most of my body washes, lotions, make-up, and nail polishes. Once I reminded myself that most of these things could be bought in Japan, it was easy to cut down. I still ended up packing a decent sized make-up bag, but hey, I left the blow dryer behind, so sacrifices, right?
* Miscellaneous (AKA – “me” things) √
A stack of photos. Two Game of Thrones books. A guidebook to Japan. My 2016 Planner. My Yeti Cup. A journal. My Sonny’s photobook. Wall decor for my room. My sunglasses. A neck pillow for the plane rides. None of these things were mandatory to bring, yet all have importance to me in some way or another. Many were gifts from people I love and can’t wait to carry them with me through this entire journey. Basically, all things that describe me. The weight is worth it. 🙂
When You Wander 