so here was the initial cut for the stuff to pack for the trip. turns out i had to take out a couple books, a pair of jeans a sweater and a pair of shoes. it tidies up nicely in ziplocks though. a must if you're packing in a top loading backpack. that way its easy to get to the things in the bottom of the bag without refolding everything every single time :) and wonder of wonders. its all in the bag. and it only weighs 29 pounds. not too bad i don't think :) we leave tomorrow. the ipod is still not loaded with music. crap!