Okay, so you're about to spend five months away from home on the European study abroad adventure of a lifetime. You're going to travel to amazing countries, meet a ton of new friends, and sometimes go to class. The only problem? What to pack. After scouring through websites from Pinterest to Yahoo! Answers, and multiple hours of Googling the phrases "military packing style" and "how to fit as many clothes as possible into a suitcase," I've created this definitive list of tips.
1. Remember that packing list your study abroad advisor gave you? Throw it out.
That's right, you heard me. Get rid of it. You don't need that kind of negativity in your life. How are you supposed to end up on countless European fashion blogs if you only take two pairs of jeans? All those tips are just suggestions. Where is the eye roll emoji when you need it?
2. You can never have enough shoes.
I repeat, you can never have enough shoes. This is a statement you should live by every day, not just when packing. If you think you need to bring 10 pairs of shoes, do it. You'll probably wear them all, and you'll definitely come home with more. So bring those sequin covered heels that you've only worn once! They definitely won't sit in your suitcase the entire time.
3. Bring an over-the-top formal dress, just in case you get mistaken for an Italian pop star. You know exactly what I'm talking about.
I will never give up hope that this could happen.
4. Find the biggest suitcase you have and use it.
You'll need somewhere to put all the souvenirs you've bought! Plus those 10 pairs of shoes you packed.
5. And if it gets a little too full?
You'll find a way.
6. Your plane outfit is the most important.
Comfortable, but like you just stepped off the runway. You have to make a good first impression! Maybe a leather jacket but also a baseball hat, like an undercover celebrity. Keep your sunglasses on for your entire journey.
7. In all of your traveling endeavors, confidence will get you everywhere.
Just act like you know what you're doing and no one will question it.
8. Paint everything you own to look like the American flag so that everyone you encounter abroad knows you're an American.
No one will stereotype you as loud and obnoxious if you're already being loud and obnoxious!
9. "One carry-on bag and one personal item" is just a suggestion
And that little measurement box that tells you the acceptable size of a carry on bag? That's a suggestion too. I once watched a woman convince the gate agent that her two small Chihuahuas counted as one carry-on item. It was incredible.
10. Final tip: Don't forget to tell your friends and family "See you later."
They're super jealous of you.Now you're ready to go! Get packing and get out of here!
