Do you know what I've never been accused of? Packing Light.

I'd love to say that after almost ten years at sea I'm a light packer but that couldn't be further from the truth. For years I had to fly to meet my ships - most times flying Internationally - my luggage was severely restricted. That being said, I was returning to the same ship over and over so I had a serious stash of goodies that I stored in a storage locker.

I'd love to say that I had a list that I followed scrupulously but instead I usually fly by the seat of my pants.

See that blue backpack in front? Wanna know what's lashed to the bottom? Coffee and a milk frother.

See the target bag hanging off the red duffel? Wanna know whats inside? My work boots. Because my bag was so stuffed I couldn't fit them inside!

See the orange duffel? Full of food. Oatmeal, nuts, dried mango, tea...

See the blue shopping bag in the back? Christmas. Lights, narcissus bulbs to force, candy to make goodie bags for the crew, a Gingerbread House Kit. I mean come on, you can't go to sea for Christmas without a Gingerbread House Kit!

So what? I didn't pack light. I'm currently snuggled up in a flannel duvet cover (that took up a lot of room I'll have you know). It's the little things.