How to Pack for a Writers' Retreat

• 1). Read carefully all the registration material and information about the writers' retreat. Are you staying in a hotel or a cabin? Are meals provided for you? Will there be free wi-fi available? These are the types of questions you will want to ask yourself before you make a list of items you will need to pack.
  
  
• 2). Make a list of everything you need to bring: personal items, clothing, and writing-related materials. Personal items and clothing should be easy to include on your list because you take them on any trip--business or recreational. When you pack your clothing, you might want to ask yourself: will you need mostly casual outfits? Will there be a banquet where you need to dress up? Will you be meeting with an editor or agent? Once you consider the type of events at your writing retreat, then you can easily make your packing list.
  
  
• 3). Pack your clothing and personal items first. Of course, don't forget any medicine you will need! Put these items in your luggage as if you were going on any trip.
  
  
• 4). Create a writers' retreat backpack or small suitcase. In this bag, put all your writing-related items. Make sure to pack plenty of paper (maybe even a journal), 3-5 sharpened pencils, 3-5 new pens, a highlighter, post-it notes (to jot down story ideas, highlight important points), business cards with your contact information, a book for reading, and a manuscript you are working on. You will use all these materials at a writing retreat, so make sure you pack them.