What I Learned About Packing After Living Out of a Suitcase for 6 Months

(Image credit: Marlen Komar) I've always had this romantic idea about traveling light, where I would walk into a hotel in Paris or a rented shotgun bungalow in New Orleans with nothing but a small backpack on my shoulders, ready to explore the city, unencumbered. While other people would be busy fussing over the wrinkles in their packed away shirts, I'd already be tucked away into some charming little cafe or jazz bar, enjoying the fact that it only took me three seconds to head out the door.