How Do You Pack For This?

I've gotten this question more than any other question as I begin preparing for Remote Year - and I don't blame you for wondering! We've gotten to a point where it's unfathomable to be away from our belongings for a year.

I'll admit, had you asked me a year ago, this idea of packing for a year would have definitely intimidated me (but it's amazing what can happen in a year, isn't it?). It's been a journey, but I began to downsize my closet, household items and memorabelia late last year when I came to the realization that all of these extra things in my life were only leading to additional stress and worry, not happiness.

As a New Year resolution, I decided to set a personal goal not to purchase any tangible items for as long as I could go. (Don't worry, I made exceptions for the necessary underwear, toothpaste, etc...) The months came and went, and I didn't even miss purchasing these items that I used to think were critical. I continued on and decided to make this goal extend through all of 2017. It's July and I still have not bought one item.

In April, I was hooked on the release that I was feeling from this new lifestyle. My roommate and I decided to challenge ourselves to use only 25 items (clothing, shoes, accessories) for 30 days. (Inspired by the highly recommended Netflix documentary - The Minimalists). Although not my favorite activity (I still would not consider myself a minimalist), it certainly got me to a point where I knew this was a lifestyle I wanted long term. I will never be one to only own 25 fashion items and I will always cherish certain items and trinkets that true minimalists can't own, but the minimalist mentality has definitely inspired me.

In the weeks of preparation before my trip I have been selling, donating and "gifting" most of my closet and belongings. A coworker tells me they like my shoes, "Here, you can have them!", family comes over for dinner, " Want any of this?!", a friend mentions needing a kitchen appliance, "Take it!". These exchanges became a regular part of my routine and a true source of happiness. When I had thought my purchasing power brought me joy before, I was coming to realize that ridding myself of those items led to more joy.

So, to answer your initial question - I am traveling abroad for a year with one 40lb suitcase and one 15lb carry on. I didn't rent a storage unit and I don't have a home full of items waiting for me after the year is over.

My mentality? If it doesn't fit - it doesn't come. See below for some photos of my clothes and items that made the cut!