1. A giant carry-on suitcase. If I need a forklift to get it into the overhead bin, I’ve packed too much.

2. Shoes that hurt. I’m not limping through an airport like I just finished a marathon.

3. A neck pillow the size of a Thanksgiving turkey. If it takes up half my seat, it’s not coming.

4. A full-size bottle of anything. Airport security has enough of my shampoo to start its own salon.

5. A laptop I won’t use. I’m on vacation, not opening a branch office at 35,000 feet.

6. Expensive jewelry. I don’t need to spend the entire flight wondering if my watch is still on my wrist.

7. A mountain of snacks. I’m flying to Florida, not crossing the Oregon Trail.

8. A heavy book. I’ll carry it around for two weeks, read three pages, and bring it home as a souvenir.

9. Clothes for every possible weather emergency. If the forecast says sunshine, I’m not packing for an expedition to Antarctica.

10. The expectation of a good night’s sleep. I’m done pretending that folding myself into a middle seat is a wellness retreat.

The new rule: If I can survive the flight without it, it stays home.

Till next time . . .

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