Packing for a trip is such a Zen thing, almost a metaphor for life in general. How little do I really need? What is absolutely essential? Each item must pass the "necessity or luxury" test. It all gets more difficult as the trip gets longer and/or the climate gets harsher.
Around home, I am firmly in the "too much ain't enough" camp and carry all of my photo gear plus laptop plus backup hard drive plus spare tripod, etc... in the trunk of the car at all times. Even when everything possible heads south at the same time I can still get the shot and get back to the house. I do not want to be able to blame anything or anybody except myself if I