Expats develop a unique skill set over many years of international travel. For example, at airport security, I can strip off shoes, jacket, and watch: move my computer from backpack to plastic bin: get three bins worth of personal items, a backpack and myself through the metal detectors (without setting anything off) all in under 20 seconds.
A well choreographed routine for security lines is something expats share with all frequent travelers. A week ago, I realized a skill exclusive to the frequent international traveler.
At any moment, I can drop what I’m doing and be at the airport completely packed to leave the country in an hour. From zero to transcontinental in under an hour. How is that for an awesome, albeit totally unmarketable, skill?
I remember the very first time I traveled outside of the US. I was going to spend three weeks in the British Isles with a high school exchange program and I spent at least three days packing. Lists were made, checked, rechecked and amended.
Every single family member participated in the preparation and packing for this trip. My grandmother told me to roll my dresses instead of folding them in order to avoid wrinkles. My Mom bought me detergent tablets for washing clothes and a string for hanging them to dry in the bathroom. My Dad made sure I had extra batteries for my camera.
I have streamlined things considerably since that first trip abroad.
Today, I have a set of strict rules when it comes to my luggage. First, I must be able to lift my own suitcase and carry it up and down stairs. I will not be dependent on others to move my own luggage. Second, if you haven’t had to sit on your suitcase to close it, then it’s not full. Third, thongs are the go to underwear because you can pack a month’s worth inside of a shoe. And finally, hoodie sweatshirts can cushion anything from computer printers to brass lamps.
When I pack it happens in a logical and well established order. Underwear, bras, socks, pajamas, bottoms (casual, dressy), tops (casual, semi-dressy, dressy), workout attire, one dress, shoes (1 comfy, 1 cute, 1 dressy pairs), and finally accessories (jewelry, belts). Then I pack my carry-on with my laptop, iPod, book, snacks, plastic baggy with hand sanitizer and chapstick, and of course passport and wallet. I pack my toiletries last because I take a quick shower and brush my teeth right before I head to the airport. (I assume the other passengers appreciate this habit.)
I can go through this entire routine, including the shower, and be in a taxi on my way to the airport in an hour or less. I believe most expats have an equally impressive travel prep routine. We never have to search for our passports and we always have some cash in a variety of currencies in the house. If I ever need to flee a country, I’m confident I’ll make it out and still be well packed for any occasion, be it casual, formal or sporty.
