What's in my bag? Fall Retreat Edition

If you’re anything like me when it comes to packing for an overnight trip, you always end up packing WAY too much and bring things that are only needed in worst case scenarios (which 9 out of 10 times doesn’t happen anyway). And if you’re going on a company retreat, you’re probably wondering what other coworkers are bringing too. To avoid overpacking and to ensure you’re actually bring necessary items for the fall retreat, take a look at what returners from the 18-19 cohort usually bring!
 
1. An extension cord! Preferably one that is very long, of course. These are great because cellphone cords usually don’t reach the beds (or even in general). With an extension cord, you can use your phone while it’s charging from many feet away or even your laptop in a large room setting! –Jenna P. 

2. If you’re someone that doesn’t sleep well in foreign places, bring an extra pillow/blanket to mimic your own bed to make it more comfortable. The extra blanket will also come in handy when we’re in the meeting rooms because it can get chilly! 

3. For peace of mind, shower shoes are a must! Your college dorm days may be long over, but retreat centers use shared communal showers and they may not be up to your par of cleanliness. 

4. Although we are provided with towels, an extra 1-2 towels might be a good thing to bring, especially if you’re someone that likes to use a separate towel for hair and body. – Katie S. 

5. The weather can be very unpredictable at this time of year, so pack warm clothing such as a heavy sweatshirt, a scarf, and thicker socks! 

6. A reusable water bottle or if you prefer convenience, pack at least 2 drinks per day. I think we all know that ~not all water tastes the same~ so bring at least 1 water per day and a “fun” drink like a seltzer, soda, etc. – Katie S. 

7. When you need to have “me time” during the free time at the end of the day, headphones/earbuds are great so you can decompress without any distractions around you. If you’re a light sleeper, pick up a pack of earplugs at the dollar store, especially since we share lodging with another member. 

8. If you’re someone that snacks throughout the day, I highly recommend bringing personal snacks because the last provided meal of the day is dinner and you still might be hungry after that. Just don't bring a snack that requires refrigeration because we don't have access to that!

9. Now would be a good time to use those hotel soaps and shampoo/conditioners that you have stockpiled under your bathroom sink and just toss out whatever remains after the retreat is over! Using these allows you to travel lighter instead of bringing the full-sized products that you have in your shower. – Katie S. 

10. Lastly, bring fun things, like a deck of cards, to do during free time! If you know Kevin, he always packs a soccer ball because he loves being able to connect with others over something as simple as kicking a ball around. Regardless of skill level or knowledge of the sport, he finds that it's a consistent way for him to share something he’s passionate about while also serving as an entertaining conduit for conversation!