Reason # 97 to travel light
It has often been said if you can’t run a 1/2 mile with all your gear you are carrying too much.
There are many compelling reasons why one should travel light including more mobility, flexibility and economy. I recently discovered the most compelling reason for travelling light – It can literally save your back.
There comes a point in a persons life when your body says “Frick you – your are not 20 anymore” then promptly bodyslams you into the pavement. “Macho Man” Randy Savage style.
I faced that point after two long days of bus travel from the North of Costa Rica to David Panama.
As I pulled our large bag (loaded with dive gear and other necessities) my back made a gruesome pop combined with a rather interesting squelching sound.
A few days later the pain was wicked and constant, I got to know the local chiropractor quite well!
I pinched my Sciatic nerve and now understand how painful sciatica is, it is major pain in the ass, thigh and calf!
After two weeks of agony, I was able to get off the couch for short periods. Walking any distance took a further 3 weeks of building up my tolerance.
Take my advice,
Travel light or get somebody to haul your garbage for you.
Even if you are 20 – abusing your back will catch up with you – even if you think you are the World Westling champ of the world!
