One-hundred and 95 countries span seven continents on planet Earth. That’s 195 different adventures to be had, not including the ones within the states, provinces, and cities of those counties. Today I have the opportunity to begin my own world exploration by embarking on a two-week European vacation to England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales. Over the next few weeks, I’m happy to share my experiences and what I’ve learned, but for now I’m focused on the time from my departure from my quiet hometown to my arrival in an international activity hub.
As a young eighteen-year-old woman, I’ve done my fair share of traveling across the country from California to Connecticut. I’ve driven, I’ve flown… I’m pretty sure I’ve taken a ferry but I was little so who knows? The point is, I’ve learned what not to do when traveling. So take it from me and my traveling fails and learn what to do to better enjoy yourself on your future trips.
Packing for your trip
- Pack basic clothing items. Look to Pinterest for help on this. Stick to neutral colors and a single color to make multiple outfits out of fewer pieces. This saves space in your luggage which means you can buy more unnecessary souvenirs from your destination (that’s what I do anyway).
- Don’t be afraid to bring accessories. Items like earrings and necklaces take up very little room in your suitcase and can instantly spice up an outfit. Thread necklaces through a straw or press between two sheets of press-and-seal wrap to avoid dealing with tangles. Bringing a scarf or two is also a good idea and these can double as padding for breakables, such as perfume bottles.
- Don’t bring all your toiletries. And by this I do NOT mean forgo your toothbrush. I simply mean, if at all possible, save space in your suitcase by packing travel-sized shampoo, body wash, and shaving cream to travel with and plan to buy full-sized versions at your destination. Chances are, you may even finish the bottles and have no need to bring them home.
What to wear on travel days
- Leggings or other comfortable pants. I cannot stress how much I love to travel in leggings, whether it be by plane or the backseat of my dad’s Suburban. All girls know how insanely comfortable they are, which is why they’re perfect for travel. Enough said.
- Easy slip-on shoes. This is a toss up between my Sanuk yoga mat sandals (my faves for dealing with TSA) or my Nikes (better for long car rides). Whatever you choose, keep comfort in mind.
- A light jacket. Target is one of my favorite places to shop for clothes (thank you, Cartwheel and Mom’s RedCard). Three years ago, I found the perfect lightweight zip-up from Target before I went to Notre Dame Summer Scholars. It’s now my go-to jacket for traveling as it’s light enough to be tied around my waist or worn to keep me warm on a freezing cold airplane.
And last, but certainly not least (because it’s really the best part).
What to pack in your carry-on bag
- A small makeup bag with your essential products and a few makeup remover wipes
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Headache relief pills
- Pepto Bismol
- iPod and headphones
- Laptop/tablet
- Itinerary and tickets
- Government-issued ID
- Cash and debit/credit card
Traveling is a personal experience, so one piece of advice is to remember YOGOWYPI. This odd acronym I learned in middle school that stands for: “you only get out what you put in,” but it serves as good advice. Focus on yourself and don’t let anyone ruin your travels for you. Seize the day and make your own adventure.
