When You Travel Far

“Those who travel far, travel light.”

That’s what my mother often told me. Her words proved to be wise. They express a principle that applies to life, too.

On my first trip, I lugged three huge suitcases. Half my wardrobe was in them. However, after a few voyages, I got wise. I discovered other countries had laundry facilities. Also, a different outfit every day wasn’t necessary. I could change accessories to get variety. After years of travelling, I now can go overseas with only a carry-on suitcase.

Preparing for an adventure

Obviously, the weather at my destination determines what I bring. I wear a warmer, loose-fitting outfit in flight since airplanes are usually cool. In tropical areas, I wear short sleeved shirts and capris. When the weather turns colder, I add a sweater or windbreaker.

Most of this is common sense. People take an umbrella to London. They bring mittens, scarves, and winter coats to northern locations at Christmas. However, I’ve learned it’s usually not necessary to bring duplicates or triplicates of anything.

Packing for a longer trip.

I learned a few tips from an experienced traveler.

1. Choose clothes you can mix and match. Pick tops that go with several bottoms.
2. Select wrinkle-free materials, if possible. They’ll keep you looking fresh, and you won’t have to iron them.
3. Roll your clothes. First button shirts and fold them. Then roll them into a cylinder shape. They will take up less room in a suitcase. Also, they will stay in place and have less wrinkles.
4. Pack large items first. Arrange smaller items around them. Stuff shoes with socks to help shoes retain their shape.
5. Slip jewelry into drawstring bags to conserve space. Group smaller items in a larger bag to keep them from getting lost.

Readiness for the ultimate trip.

Of course, we don’t need to pack for our ultimate trip. We can’t take anything with us when we head to heaven. In fact, we want to go as light as possible. With our goal in mind, we are wise to get rid of whatever hinders us. Throw out bad habits, foolish desires, worry, and fear.

The apostle Paul compares our journey to a race. In Hebrews 12: 1b – 2 we read, “. . .let us lay aside every weight and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith. . . “

Have you pared down your life?

If we keep our ultimate destination in mind, we won’t be as likely to take wrong turns and detours. Without excess baggage, our trip through life will go smoother. We’ll be able to cross the finish line in victory. Remember, he who travels far, travels light.