After several days of research, I finally purchased my travel insurance. I found a plan that does not insure the trip itself, since I am not buying all my tickets up front, but provides major medical, evac, trip cancellation, emergency reunion, and lost luggage coverage. One million dollars of coverage, $250 deductible, and hazardous sports coverage for $58 a month. A bit pricey perhaps, but it will be good to have the peace of mind.

My backpack arrived today. I managed to get all of my stuff in it, but barely. Over the next few weeks I will have to really go through my stuff to be sure I am only taking what I need, since it would be nice to have some extra room. Then I put it on my back and took it on a shakedown hike through town for 2 hours. It felt pretty good. Things are starting to feel more real.