Cool hybrid luggage and my mantra: pack light

I got the perfect suitcase: a bright yellow hybrid backpack/trolley.

Not too big (so I don't overstuff it) and not too small (because I plan to stay away as long as possible and need to take a few things along) and it is waterproof too, in case of heavy rain, or if it falls off the side of a boat and doesn't instantly sink to the bottom of the ocean.

I can roll it around stations and airports, but load it on my shoulders when the terrain is rough. It was a bit pricey, but I think the investment will pay off in the long run.

The problem now is I can't seem to get my stuff in it in any organized way.

So I took an hour off, to mediate on the matter and repeat my mantra pack light/pack light/pack light, and now I am attempting to pack my bag with brains (not that I am putting brains in the bag, just I need to use my brains to get the job done).

Here is what I'll do:

• Keep the heavy stuff at the bottom of the pack so it doesn't tip over (I have that heavy Bill Bryson book and several others to anchor the trolley).

• Double wrap any lotions or liquids in plastic bags in case they break or explode in flight.

• Put a rubber band around the information leaflet with expiration dates, and discard all cardboard medicine boxes to save space.

• Put my beauty case and light clothing at the top of the bag, so I can change and freshen up, when I reach my destination.

As for my travelling outfit, I have a pair of pants that are like transformers, in that they have a zipper around the knees and go from long cold weather trousers to shorts in a jiffy.

I will avoid bracelets, necklaces, earrings, studs belt buckles and other metal, so I won' t waste any time at the security check.

And I have found a comfortable pair of slip on shoes (elastic) which are comfortable and easy to take off (both at security but also on the plane).

All in black, so soiled spots will be hard to notice :)

My travel documents, I'll carry them in a pouch on my body at all times (don't want to forget them in a restroom.

At that's about it! I'm good to go!

Just one more thing to remember: put a colored ribbon on the outside of the luggage, so you can easily distinguish it from other passengers' bags, which might look like mine.