My Year in a Suitcase

Did you ever see the movie 'Up in the Air'? Well I didn't. But I've been told I lead a similar life to George Clooney's character, whose job has him constantly flying around the country firing people. Only I don't fire people, and I'm not the Sexiest Man Alive.

One year ago I moved to DC to be a peon  management consultant. Of the 52 or so weeks I've "lived" in DC, there've been 6 total weeks where I didn't leave town on a plane, train, or automobile. Six. (but before you turn sour-punch green, let me assure you that Indianapolis and Groton, CT are not the most glamorous places on the map) At the very least, I've gained a few notches in my travel-smarts belt, right?  

Things I've learned from a year of 3-ounce bottles and window seats:

• A month in a carry-on is completely doable.
• Ziplock freezer bag = makeup bag.  
• You will NEVER feel good about yourself after eating an Auntie Ann's pretzel.
• Make friends with airport personnel, and magically you're never "randomly" selected.
• A window seat is a must for red eyes and overseas flights, unless you packed this: 

• You can easily sneak a 5-oz. tube of toothpaste through security, but the same isn't true for a 16 oz. jar of clover honey.
• Skip the jewelry
• For goodness' sake, check in online. 
• Order to put your items through the security scanner:
1. suitcase
2. laptop case
3. laptop 
4. toiletries
5. shoes

Promise. It's the fastest way to get everything off the belt on the other end.

• The December SkyMall edition is by far the best one.

"Potty train your cat faster than most people can potty train their kids"

Must have that Sianket: a snuggie for 2??

I haven't really decided how I feel about the lifestyle. Some people are super resilient and born to fly, but I personally can't imagine juggling it for too long, especially once a family is in the mix. Gah, I can't imagine. 

Until then, you can call me George - I'm Up in the Air.