I usually go to a friend's home in AZ to have a private quilting retreat. The week before I leave I have a box/basket I throw items in that I want to have when I am in AZ. Luckily Amazon is a quilter's best friend - items can be ordered and delivered in a few days. I can't imagine planning out a 6 month trip, so knowing there are stores around, I wouldn't worry about missing a couple items. And I agree with the idea of buying a machine when I got there is I could not take mine in a car with me. I don't trust luggage handlers and or delivery people at UPS/USPS/FedEx, etc. Also, If you have it professionally packed that will cost an arm and a leg.