Prepping for PNW

I’m heading out tomorrow morning to the Pacific Northwest for signings in Portland and Seattle, and that means it’s time to pack.

Perhaps I’m just a bit obsessive, or perhaps I like to be prepared. Either way, my bag is organized and filled and ready to go for an early flight in the morning. Here are some of my travel tips:

1. Zip it up. For on-plane necessities, I carry a large tote bag that zips, so it can be stuffed beneath the seat in front of me without losing its contents.

2. Compartmentalize. The stuff inside Le Grante Tote is compartmentalized–clear zip bags of snacks and necessities that need TSA approval, a bag for pens, pencils, notecards, and earbuds, and a pouch that holds wallet, phone, and keys. I love the little zip bags from West Elm and Kate Spade’s Gia pouches (especially when they’re on sale!)

3. Pack your snacks. Raiding a mini-bar feels extravagant, until you realize you’ve just paid $8 for seven cashews or half a dozen gummy bears. Seriously. I bring along snacks (granola bars, trail mix, etc.) in case my schedule doesn’t allow for a full meal, or I need a snack.

4. Water, water, water. I inevitably get dehydrated when I travel, so I try to make sure I’ve got a bottle on hand and remind myself to drink it.

5. Schedule breaks. There are so many places I’d like to see that I usually want to fill up my travel schedule. You know what that leads to? Grouchiness and exhaustion, especially for an introvert like me. I’ve found it’s important for me to schedule in breaks–or just be okay spending an afternoon or evening resting in the hotel.

6. Know your options. Know you’ll have a dinner break, but not sure where to go? Check out Urbanspoon and OpenTable for restaurant ideas in the area, and identify two or three choices that look good. You can make a just-in-case reservation, or make your final selection at game time, but at least you won’t be starving with no idea where to go.

Hope to see you in PNW this weekend!