Unpacking

Last night, a friend called to thank me for organizing the kayak camping trip a group of us had just done over the weekend. She said she had such a fantastic time, she couldn’t wait to thank me. Of course, she added, she dreaded tomorrow when she’d have to unpack everything and wash.

I was already doing that. It’s a part I enjoy.

For one thing, it doesn’t take long, especially in comparison to the packing. I put the list together weeks in advance. Then, I “pull the inventory” and lay it out on the couch to eyeball it to see if I can delete something or if I omitted anything. This process takes a few days, as I want to view it as I run the trip details through my mind several times. It’s complicated by the fact that my cat will also be going through the stuff when I’m not around. He generally deletes stuff.

When it’s culled down to the finalists, I do a test pack to ensure everything will fit into the allotted space or containers. It’s not as simple as tossing everything into the same suitcase for a hotel trip. Items must be packed into different kinds of bags, waterproof boxes, duffels, etc., grouped by activity or usage.

It’s not as simple as saying that all the food or clothing goes in one bag or box. Some you’ll use in camp, some on the river and some en route.

But, it doesn’t end there. I watch the weather forecast, which can vary several times a day. Predicted temperatures and chances of precipitation jump up and down. So, I’m digging for warmer or dryer stuff sometimes, just in case. It may be easier just to not look until a few days before the event, but I’m not comfortable doing that. What if I can’t find my favorite hoodie or rain pants? Too much other stuff to do close to zero hour, anyway.

Then, I have to load the truck in the proper order. That’s determined by whether we’re going to the campsite or the water first.

So, you can see how much easier the unpacking process is. Dump the truck, then dump the baggage into the washer. Well, not quite like that.

In the unpacking process, I note what I didn’t use and recall if I lacked anything. It’s a learning process and I enjoy it.

I’ve saved the best part for last. Every item holds a memory that extends the enjoyment of the trip. In this case, it’s the pieces and smears of M&Ms from some playful wrestling at the campground. A jacket redolent of creosote from a ridiculously robust campfire. Salsa stains attesting to partying at a Mexican restaurant. And, other things that make me grin.

I don’t dread the unpacking. I relish it.