I’m exhausted after an excellent PyCon US, but I had packing and unpacking on my mind. I usually pack too many clothes in a suitcase that is too small and regretting it on my way back.

I like to use packing cubes, and I still pack way too much into slightly too small of a suitcase, and then I regret it after bringing home too much swap home with me.

This year, I challenged myself to pack less and to bring my more giant suitcase. I could even see the bottom of my luggage around my packing cubes.

Overall, my take-home booth/vendor swag was very modest this year. I only brought home one T-shirt, a hat, and a bunch of stickers. I meant to buy a t-shirt to support Black Python Devs, but y’all bought them all before I could make it back with cash.

I also want to thank my friends who brought gifts for my kids and myself, which I didn’t see coming. I am humbled and amazed that my community work and friendship sparked that response. I am humbled, and everything fits perfectly in my suitcase.

My only misses during this trip were bringing too many USB-C cables, one book I never opened, and a smaller satchel to carry my laptop. I even left my computer in my hotel for a few days. Next year, I will bring fewer cables with me.

The only device I wish I had brought was a small power strip. I have a GHome Smart Power Strip, which has a few USB charger ports, and it would have been nicer than fighting some of the hotel’s loose, built-in chargers. With a power strip, I would have had more space to plug it into a wall jack.

Someday, I will write up a proper gear post since I picked up a few new items I enjoyed having this year, but tonight, I will start recovering from my sleep debt.