The Packing Problem

For months I've been pondering the How on Earth am I going to Pack?! dilemma. I like to travel light. After a few European backpacking adventures, I don't see the need to bring a lot of stuff, and have learned (the hard way) that if you ever want to see it again, don't bring it along. Just a few changes of clothes and some disposable underwear (you know, that underwear you need to throw out anyway to lighten your load as you go) is enough. My mom doesn't like the fact that my sister Holli and I get to smelling like dirty laundry after a bit, but that's part of what makes it fun. Besides, it's more fun to reminisce when you're a "fashion don't."

Back to my packing dilemma...
I surveyed everyone I know who had been in a similar situation and a few of the teachers currently working at the school I'll be teaching. They basically all said I can buy everything I need when I get there, with one exception. Since I'll actually be working in Peru, I'll need to dress like a professional. Buying professional type clothes wouldn't be such a problem if I weren't going to be in an Andean country where the people are a bit shorter than here in the States. At 5'6"(and a half), I may be a borderline giantess. So in my backpack that meets the TSA requirements for carry-on luggage (even though I'll be checking it), I have a pair of slacks, two skirts, and 3 work appropriate tops to mix and match. Sidenote: Vacuum bags are a beautiful invention. Never would have fit everything without them. I'll worry about appropriate footwear when I got there. Unless they don't mind if I teach in hiking boots.

Now for my final dilemma: Can I bring my peanut butter in my carry-on, or will they seize it at security?