THE PACK: [27] Kingston, Ontario

You may be wondering just what I am planning to bring with me.  I won't get into all the messy details, but here's an idea of some of the things I can't leave without:

In the purse: 

• iPod: audio books, the very best indie rock, will upload photos to as I go.
  
• small digital camera, for portability .
• my notebook: very detailed maps and instructions about my travel plans, place to write a journal.
• a small Maglite flashlight.
• a small amount of local currency (just swipe it, but don't steal it, I guess, should be my motto).  I find that most smaller town (esp. in Italy) don't accept travellers cheques, and in big cities like Paris and Rome, if you don't act too much like a wealthy tourist (flashing bling and designer shoes/clothes), you don't have to worry about the safety of your money too much.
• a metro/bus ticket for whatever city I am in (the 3-day or 1-week ones are best).
• sunglasses.

In the pack:

• carry-on size toiletries (including toothpaste and sunscreen, the two essentials of my trip)
• two days worth of clothes (just in case).
• video camera: given to me by Professor Colivicchi, so I really cannot lose it; it's for the documentary, to promote our department and Queen's achievements.
• digital SLR: for those perfect picture moments.
• guide to Italy, Rome, and Paris (though, those may go in my suitcase depending on heavy my pack gets.
• dig gear: sun hat, work gloves.
• ONE book to read (the rest will be audio books): I'm considering reading A Year in the Merde.
• a small towel: in case.
• all the necessary electronics chargers/converters/cables.
• a small case of writing/journaling utensils (glue stick, ruler, pens, eraser, pencil, marker, whiteout pen, etc.).

In the suitcase:

• white double size sheet and pillowcase: for hostels, enough said.
• larger towel: still microfiber and fast drying, but big enough to wrap around me if I must.
• work boots: my beloved blundstones.
• nice sandals: in case of shopping.
• laundry detergent: in small leak proof containers from MEC.
• 1 lb trailmix: I may reconsider this, but I really like trail mix and I imagine it is hard to find/expensive in Europe.
• those vacuum pack and seal bags that you only need to roll and they make stuff smaller (for the way back).
• my clothes for the dig.
• my clothes for travelling.
• a pocket knife: I like to be prepared.
• a metal water bottle: can't fly with it, but it will be refillable for the dig and will keep my water the right temperature.
• swimsuit: for our beach day, in case.