Trying to Take It With Me

California bound: clothes, food, kitchen tools, memorabilia 

In the freight industry managing backhauls is crucial to the success of the business. The railcar, aircraft, ship, or truck is often filled going in one direction but empty coming back. The carrier heavily discounts rates on the backhaul, because some revenue is better than none.

On my trips to Hawaii--six this year so far--there is a similar freight imbalance, so I've been taking a half-empty suitcase. On the return to California my luggage is heavier, and I'm heavier.

The only thing lighter is my wallet.