I don't go on retreats or to guild but my neighbor's daughter has 2 Bionic Gear Bags. She uses one at home and one for retreats or guild. She lives in a 2 bedroom house, very small. Her storage space is limited. She sets her sewing area up in her house like she's at a retreat. She is always ready for a retreat or guild. She has a 401 in a desk cabinet that doubles as a school desk for her 3 girls. She uses a small Janome for retreat. it fits in her sewing machine carrier with some room to spare. this girl is efficient and beyond.