I’m better on some trips than others. Ironically, the longer excursions require more discipline, more ruthlessness. Packing light is not for the faint of heart.

But after lugging large suitcases up and down the stairs of broken escalators, after being unable to hoist my bag into the overhead storage unit, I’m determined that the next trip, which begins today, be a leaner, lighter one.

And so the winnowing has begun, began days ago, to be honest. I started out with a universe far larger than the final subset, made some calculations (no hiking boots, fewer shirts) and jettisoned. When I reached what I thought was a suitable compromise, I threw everything in my bag and picked it up. Not bad, so I pulled everything out to pack it properly.

I have time for one more round of belt-tightening, though. I’m hoping the bag I take to the airport in a few hours is lighter still.

(My old, much-battered, too-large suitcase — may it rest in peace.)