Guess what, guys! We're growing up! That means we are doing more and more things all on our own and "adulting," which can be scary. So while we're applying for credit cards, looking for grown-up jobs, real relationships, puppies and apartments, some of us are going on real vacations without our parents. Here are some tips from a girl on her real first vacation without her parents and learning some things along the way.
1. Call your bank, you may need your card.
I took cash and tried my damnedest to not need my card. I eventually had to use it anyway. Call your bank and tell them that you are not in your state anymore and will/may need to use your card. For my bank, all I had to do was read them my card number and give my last four Social Security numbers, and I was ready to go. Easy peasy!
2. Double check your luggage before leaving home.
You'll realize that you either over-packed or under-packed and possibly forgot something. Making a list helps as well as giving yourself enough time to pack.
3. Take sunscreen.
Since you're without your mom pestering you to reapply or to even put it on in the first place, you'll probably forget. You won't think about it until you're stuck wearing minimal clothing and doing all you can to avoid more sun or bumping into anything. It's all fun and games until the locals are even pointing out how bad your burn is and trying to spray you with stuff to help.
4. Take a first aid kit.
Out of every group, there is a klutz. A first aid kit would be a good thing to keep handy, ya know, in case one of you walks into a pole and your eyebrow/lid immediately swells and start bleeding. It's hard when you only have a bottle of water and tissues handy. Also, a small tube of Neosporin costs seven dollars in Florida.
5. Laugh.
Remember that you're on vacation. There isn't time to worry about final grades and the stresses of home, that's why you left. You shouldn't cry over grades or get mad over something minimal. You're there to have fun and relax, so if something is bothering you, get it off your chest or leave it at the airport.
6. Take all the pictures you want.
Don't be afraid to take too many pictures. This is your first vacation without your parents keeping an eye on you. Make memories and keep them to share. Don't worry about your body or messy hair or the guy walking his dog in the back. You'll later regret not getting that snapshot of how the waves threw your friend down or what the salt water did to your hair. Life is too short.
