There is one part of travel that I really enjoy: planning.

As part of the planning process, I use my journal to map, plan, and diagram. In this case I used a spread to explore packing for the polar summer in one carryon bag.

Was it even possible? Well I was going to find out.

The secret is using compressible packing cubes (it’s fitting that I’m using Thule from Sweden). This way I can pack more into my Osprey Farpoint 40 and the packing cubes help me stay organized on the road.

Before any important journey I also start a notebook. For my Svalbard adventure I chose a 3.5 by 5.5″ (90 X 150 mm) Leuchtturm1917 notebook. I do a lot of my preplanning in these notebooks and it is my constant companion while I’m on the trip.

I use it to write and note down details, lists, checklists, and thoughts and I often write blog posts in these small notebooks which easily fit into a pocket. And sometimes I do quick pens sketches too.