Canadian Diplomatic Family Network

Another CDFN Life Hack by Chris Stewart

We all need certain comforts from home, and it’s possible that on post you’re just not going to be able to find them. We’re not judging, but maybe you have a certain toilet paper that you love, or a spice rub that you can’t live without. Making sure your sea shipment is well stocked is key, but the big question is how much do you buy? After all, when you’re standing at Costco looking at the 2 kilo bag of paprika, it might seem like you might go through that in a couple of years… right?

So how do you find out how much of your creature comforts you might need, planning. If you’re heading on post in the next month or two, you might be a little late, but if you’re not going for a few months or even a year, now is the time to plan. Make a list of all the items you just can’t live without (again we won’t judge), now post that list on your fridge or someplace where everyone in your house has access. Whenever someone changes a roll of toilet paper, take a note on your list. Whenever you go through a jar of paprika, take a note. With as little as a few months of collected information, you’ll have a much better idea of what your household actually goes through. In our house we’re almost always amazed at how little it actually is.

Written by Chris Stewart — Chris Stewart has been a creative professional for over 20 years: a photographer, video wizard, writer, illustrator, often juggling several hats at once. Chris is also a packing expert! He’s currently in a suitcase transitions after leaving Myanmar, having had adventures in Cambodia, Pakistan, Greece, and Japan. The “CDFN Life Hacks” are designed to provide quick advice for navigating assignment cycles more smoothly.

Have tips to share? Reach out to us — we’d love to hear from you.

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