Life in a suitcase
T minus 20 days to go until my new chapter begins. At this point, things are processing slowly in my brain. Excitement and anxiety dance around with a strange calmness. With Pre Departure Orientation done, what is now left is the mammoth task of packing. Saying goodbye and ensuring I do not forget anything vital.
Packing is typically a task I tend to leave until the last minute. Usually, I take pride in considering myself a master of suitcase-packing. My Tetris skills are exceptional, and years of attending conventions in elaborate cosplay have prepared me for this task. Can anyone say suitcase full of Morigesh? That is one costume that will forever remain a stressful packing nightmare.
The handbook tips for packing can be summarized as packing lightly and shipping bulkier items later. Don't forget to leave room for any gifts you plan to bring, and be sure to have your carry-on bag packed and ready for Tokyo Orientation. Suits and spare clothing primarily. I also noted at the PDO that depending on your placement, you may need more clothes in this bag. Due to my placement being down south, there is a possibility my checked bag may take as long as 8 days to reach Saga. When you arrive your checked bag will be sent ahead… or behind in my case.
With all this in mind and after checking the airline allowances, I have decided to take my big 32-inch bag for checked bag and my big rucksack for the cabin. The laptop is my personal item for carry-on!
So where does one begin? With a big list! which has been through about 4 revisions and counting. Every time I sit back thinking this is the one… another item pops into my mind. What helps is breaking it into sections, what do I need for my job? what am I bringing for my days off and what do I want for comfort? With all things related to this program, I advise taking it slow and doing little bits at a time. I will most likely pack and repack a few times till I am certain I have everything.
There is also the bonus of buying things once settled. The internet is full of options if anything is missed! It’s a comfort to the ever-shortening time remaining.
