I am a Winter Texan, except we aren't going for the entire winter anymore. But I have decided, like you, that it takes too much space and is too much work to haul everything. We just got home last Thursday from a one month trip and I only took fabric for 3 purses. Took the smallest mat I had, plus small ironing board and iron. I have learned to pack a rotary cutter with extra blades, best scissors in 3 sizes, neutral color threads, needles, pin cushion, tape measure, marking pens, extra sewing machine needles and all the accessories for that machines. I bought a rolling machine carrier from Joann's, got a cute little bag and filled it with all my stuff listed above, it all fits inside the carrier. I have everything I need and because I usually bring a project that is either cut out or ready to be cut out, I can sew that while gone. I usually find some other project that the group in the campground is working on and I just have to do that too. Last year I made table runners and a cute purse that was taught to me. As well as work on my own project too. I just can't deal with tons of stuff anymore. Plus I always buy fabric while gone. Good luck with your plans.