We're packed and ready to go, but it's been tougher than usual preparing for this trip.
We always travel with just carry-on luggage. Not because we have to, but because experience shows that if it stays with you - it gets to where you're going. Remember, Dan spent many years tracing lost bags.... So, if it doesn't fit in the carry-on travel bags, it doesn't come with us.
In the south end of Chile the current temperature is 6º with 30 mph winds!! (It damn well better be as spectacular as the pictures in the guide books. ) In Santiago, it is 30º and sunny. How the heck are you supposed to pack for those extremes? Fortunately, Dan & I are the reigning champions in the packing-small-but-not-necessarily-light category. We've got everything from long johns, turtle necks, heavy fleecies and wind pants to swim-suits, t-shirts and sandals. We even managed to cram in the hiking boots, which surprised even me!
The hiking boots were a last minute decision in case we get on the "Cruise at the End of the World" that Lesley & Dave are booked on. (We weren't willing to pay the full price, so we'll only go if we can get a last-minute deal.) I had to rescue my hiking boots from out of the Sally Ann bag. Really! They've been in the trunk of my car just waiting for me to remember to drop them in the bin for about 2 weeks now. I guess that's the up-side of a bad memory - it gives you a chance to change your mind. My bag should be lighter on the way home because I don't think they'll be making the return journey.
