It's a week before you're going on a trip and you think to yourself, "I should start setting things out that I want to pack like a responsible person would," but before you know it, your flight is 12 hours away and you haven't even gotten your suitcase out. So you start packing and soon remember why you didn't do this sooner...because it's the worst. If you haven't gone through these stages of packing then either you're lying right now, or I have a lot to learn.
1. Overly Confident
Packing? Psh, nothing is easier than that so it'll only take a minute. You could start now, but there's a new series on Netflix just calling your name, and it would be rude to ignore it. Just throw some shorts and shirts in and you're set. But wait, what if it rains while you're there?
2. Time To Get Serious
Okay, so maybe the plan where you would watch Netflix *while* packing didn't really go as you expected (even though deep down you knew exactly what would happen). It's time to stop procrastinating. You tell yourself you can't do anything but pack until it gets done. But then you remember that article you have to write...
3. Dread
This is the stage where you realize you've really screwed yourself over and you better hope that there isn't anything on the plane that will keep you from sleeping because, let's face it, you won't be getting any tonight.
4. Anxiety
You start to feel anxious and overwhelmed to the point that you don't even know where to start. So you google "packing hacks" for about 30 more minutes until you catch yourself doing that procrastinating thing again. And then you get more anxiety because you're practically helpless, but you send out the tweet asking anybody and everybody for help anyways.
5. Powered By Red Bull
Red Bull serves two purposes here. The first being the obvious energy source you need to power through, and the second being the unrealistic hope that you can actually obtain wings because then the thought of missing your flight would be a lot less horrifying.
6. The One With The Socks
Trying to find the balance between too many and too few is a real tough spot to be in, especially in this mental state you've gotten yourself into. So you convince yourself just to wear sandals the whole trip. But....what if it rains....
7. The Fear Of Over packing
You're allowed one carry on and one personal item. Fine. It's summer, all of your clothes are light and don't take up much space. One suitcase is totally reasonable, until you realize that it actually isn't at all because how could you possibly think of leaving home without every pair of shoes you own. I mean you never really know what you're going to need, even when you know perfectly well. How much is the fee to check a bag?
8. Potential Terrorist Suspect
"Are my tweezers considered hazardous?"
9. Going To The Airport
Headphones? Check. Jacket? Check. ID? Check. Wow, who knew you could actually pull this off. I'm impressed.
10. Where's My Charger?
At home, next to your bed. Where you told yourself you would remember to get it.
