what's in your suitcase?

My good friend Carrie posted a question on her blog, from an online class she's taking. The question is "What's in your suitcase? What are your traveling must-haves?" I'm hi-jacking that question, cuz I think it's pretty fun...

Out of necessity (motorcycle trips) I have become quite a minimalist while traveling. For example, for this last 8 night trip we just took to Canada, Greg and I COMBINED had one carry-on duffle bag, a laptop bag, and my shoulder bag. That was it!

I always have a camera when traveling, and am getting used to taking my cool Clix2 mp3 player. I take at least one book plus a mag or two for "downtimes." I need my Mary Kay face products and a brown eyeliner. And my hand lotion - Suave Natural Oatmeal. Plus typical toiletry items, including both Advil and Aleve. Other than that, it depends on what type of traveling I'm doing.

For biking, I need appropriate clothing, such as rain gear, leathers, gloves, protective eyewear, riding boots, etc. Sunscreen is also a requirement.

For cruising, I need nice clothing, including formal wear, for evenings onboard. I need comfy but nice-looking clothes for shore excursions. Plus a swimsuit with coverup for lounging on the deck during at sea days. Sandals and tennies are required. And I need girly stuff - more makeup, hair product, jewelry, etc.

For scrappy vacations, all I really need are comfy clothes plus my scrap tools and supplies!