Ana Miranda
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30 Day Blog Challenge #24 - Pack light, live light

29/8/2013

4 Comments

 
30 day challenge
Today’s question: What are your travel essentials for your chosen destination(s) ?

If you have lived abroad more than once you have certainly learned to pack light and to be detached from material possessions.

If you’ve never had the experience of packing your life in a suitcase or two, I’ll tell you what it looks like: the first time, you think it’s impossible and you think you need much more than you actually do and things will never fit (doesn’t that suitcase look smaller inside?).

You have to let go of things!

When I left home for the first time, I did a complete clean up as I packed. I donated, threw away and even burned stuff. It was a great ritual that helped me let go and set out to create a new life.

While abroad, I learned to think twice before buying anything. Do I really need this? Will it fit in my suitcase?

I learned to live with less objects and more feelings.

It gives more lightness to life.

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My very first flight: São Paulo - New York.
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Me and my backpack in Boston, MA.
In order to help you realize where you want to go and what to expect, Natalie Sisson prompted a few questions:

  • Where in the world do you want to travel?
  • What cultural experience are you looking for?
  • How far does your budget stretch?
  • How key is your communication?
  • Do you depend on certain services and amenities?
  • How important is your food?

After travelling the USA and part of Europe, now I want to experience different and “exotic”. 

I’m open-minded and adaptable. I don’t mind being somewhere where I don’t speak or understand the language. We always manage a way to communicate. I’m not picky and I can stay at youth hostels, campsites or couch surf. I will try (almost) any food and drink. 

My new adventure plans include Japan, Africa, Thailand, India – to experience life as I’ve never seen it. 

And my list of travel essentials is always light and practical:

  • Passport, visa and other documents.
  • Money, credit card.
  • Laptop, camera, cell phone. 
  • Basic shoes and clothes.
  • Basic hygiene products. 
  • Basic first-aid (e.g. band-aids and aspirin).
  • A couple of books. 
  • An adventurous and free spirit.
  • An open mind and willingness to learn.
  • A judgment-free mindset.



What's in YOUR suitcase?
4 Comments
Cassandra link
29/8/2013 06:52:08 pm

You couldn't have said it better. Less objects, more feelings! I remember packing to move to the Philippines. Most of my life in 1 backpack and 2 suitcases. I do have to say that I miss having my books, but they'll make it here in time. Cheers to travel :)

Reply
Ana Elisa
1/9/2013 12:05:22 pm

I miss my books too! But I'm also happy with new ones :)

Reply
Kristy Moore link
29/9/2013 06:30:00 am

Learning to let go of things is sometimes challenging (and sometimes liberating) I love the way you said it lets you create a new life and add more space for feelings. I'm de-cluttering a few things at home and this is a great reminder - thank you.

Reply
Ana Elisa
30/9/2013 05:52:58 am

Hi Kristy!
Good luck with your decluttering. I hope it brings you clarity + many good feelings. I LOVE a clean home :)

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