our columnist Daisann McLane argues against self-imposed baggage regulations.
I followed my fellow traveler Rolf Potts' "No Baggage" around the world stunt trip with a mixed feeling of awe and bewilderment. I was certainly impressed by Rolf's grit and determination to stay on the road for 30 days, carrying nothing but what he could stuff into a specially-designed, multi-pocket gear vest. But I wondered: what's the point?The trip's premise was that traveling with no baggage at all clears your path to more interesting, spontaneous and authentic travels. But I don't buy that. (I've actually had some interesting travel encounters because I was carrying baggage). Baggage isn't an obstacle, it's just a traveler's tool. And what takes up more travel energy--carrying a satchel or small suitcase, or doing laundry every single night and feeling yucky and damp all day?
I was also more than a little horrified at the idea of having to wear synthetic fabric T-shirts and underpants day in and day out. Especially because you would never catch me wearing T-shirts, synthetic underwear, cargo pants or multi-pocketed vests--unless, maybe, I was on a wilderness expedition or embedded with the Marines on assignment.
But the big reason I'd never want to do a "stripped to basics" trip is that it would make my travel far less interesting and enjoyable. Dressing for the day is one of my biggest travel pleasures. Just like I love trying out my skill with new languages, and sampling new foods, travel is an occasion for me to slip into different ways of adorning myself in the world.
