My Public Affairs Detachment once brought three TVs on annual training at an armory across the state. “Just in case we need them.”
We used one of them to, for some reason, play Hunger Games on constant loop while working on some PA stuff. The other two were never touched.
On the way back home, turning the final corner into our headquarters, one big ass CRT TV somehow shifted, lifted the HUMVEE’s inside door latch, and shattered in the middle of Blue Ridge Rd.
Since then, my tolerance for packing has rapidly contracted. I find great value in rolling through the airport without a checked bag … or a rolling bag, at that.
Some tips:
- Tablets beat laptops. I’m TDY right now, typing this post on an iPad. It’s a little harder to type, but worth it because it drastically cut bulk from my carryon. If it’s part of your job, figure out how to write articles and edit photos on a tablet. We can all make it through a short trip with one or none electronics.
- The Patagonia burrito (or any comparable bag still in production) keeps your stuff tight, ready for launch into your first engagement. Light and functional.
- What can you buy when you get there? On long trips, I’ll spring for soap or cheap sheets at the PX once I arrive. For “what if” stuff like Advil, I pick some up if needed rather than pack it just in case.
- Skip the backups. I used to toss in extra notebooks and gear without considering I hadn’t had a single need for a backup notebook in the past year+. You know what you really use every day; take the risk and spare yourself the items you don’t even use at home.
What does this have to do with being a PAO? Something, I guess. Traveling light sends the message you’re a lean communicator, who can focus on the essentials. Traveling light means you’ve got a spare hand to help a guest or teammate. Traveling light means you’re prepared to use your brain and focus on mission. After all, it’s not about you, or your stuff.
Everyone likes the PAO who has the stuff they need, but shows up mobile and ready to work.
(Photo by Tech Sgt. Phillip Butterfield, DVIDS)
