Travel Prep & Packing Tips!

5/16/2019

Traveling soon? This post was originally written for traveling to Europe but most of this can be applied to worldwide travel! Packing and planning can get a little overwhelming but don't worry because here are some great tips, lists and packing advice! Here is a handy checklist too, CLICK HERE!

Packing Tips!

Check weather and pack accordingly! Some resources: www.weather.com has great info and you can look at the next 10 days of weather and month averages. Or, simply google “average weather Athens” or wherever you're going! If you're traveling to more than one destination be sure to check each place as weather can vary from place to place.
Think of the various activities you might participate in and pack accordingly: city sightseeing (comfy shoes), exercise, beach or pool, hiking, nice dinners or theater, etc.
I always suggest layers, layers and more layers! Even if the weather will be hot, the air conditioning on coaches and in restaurants can be chilly so a light sweater or shawl can be a lifesaver! Almost anywhere you go, rain can be a possibility. I always recommend bringing a light rain jacket or umbrella. Rain does NOT have to ruin the enjoyment of a destination and your experience!
Outfits: I recommend one weeks worth of tops maximum even if you're traveling for more than a week. Plan to wear every top twice if traveling for two weeks. Jeans, shorts, skirts, trousers, capris: bring 3-5 pairs and plan to wear them multiple times. Bring a small container of laundry soap to do a few items in places you're staying more than one night (hang dry in your hotel room). Keep in mind that if you're in humid areas it takes longer to dry so plan accordingly!
Have some clothes you are not crazy about or are kind of old and maybe could be worn just once more? Bring them, wear them once, and toss them! This makes room for all the stuff you're going to buy! Great idea also for old undies and socks!

Some things you might not have though of to pack:

Reusable shopping bag: great for picnic lunches or use as a laundry bag or wrap souvenirs
Plastic bags for dirty shoes, leaky toiletries, and zip lock bags for snacks
Portable corkscrew
Dryer sheets keep your clothes smelling fresh!
Over-the-counter medications: probiotics (GREAT preventative for belly upsets), antacids, diarrhea medication, pain killers, motion sickness pills and cold medication in case you catch something. Being sick on a trip is NO FUN and not all countries have the same over-the-counter medications as the US!
Reusable water bottle – fill up where there is filtered or bottled water!
Flip-flops – great for pool side and walking around your hotel
Always pack essential items and one change of clothes in your carry-on in case bags get lost (God forbid!). Passport, credit cards, all medications, cell phone, laptop, chargers, change of clothes (at least undergarments and a top), camera, and basic toiletries.

Money tips for traveling to Europe:
For cash you can bring US dollars and exchange at a money exchange office OR bring local currency from your bank. However, the most convenient option (and best exchange rates) is to bring a debit card and take out cash from ATM machines at your destination. Usually you will find an ATM machine at the airport when you arrive or right near your first hotel. Some people prefer to have a little bit of local currency prior to arrival but please note that most European airport money exchange counters are notorious for having horrendous exchange rates. When you use your debit card to withdraw cash from the ATM there will be fees (usually 1-2% for international transactions plus outside bank ATM fees, check with your bank). Even with the fees, the exchange rates are so good that it ends up being a better deal than exchanging money at a bank or a money exchange office. Try to estimate how much money you'll need for a few days, perhaps withdraw $100-$200 each time. You do not want to be carrying too much cash at one time but you do want to minimize the number of ATM withdrawals so you don't end up with a lot of fees. Always bring at least two cards and keep them in separate places in case you lose one. Credit cards are great too for larger purchases like shopping, excursions and nice dinners. Make sure your cards have chip technology. Be sure to know what is expected as far as tipping and gratuities on your trip. IMPORTANT!!! PLEASE BE AWARE OF THE ATM MACHINES YOU USE AND PAY ATTENTION TO THE EXCHANGE RATE - THIS IS LEGITIMATE:

1 Comment

J. S. Kline

8/16/2021 08:54:07 am

Excellent tips. Here's a few more ideas:
1. Hats and sunglasses are always good to have, as is sunblock.
2. Pack a back-up set of glasses in case yours get lost.
3. It may not be for everyone, but consider packing light for the way over so you do not have to check a bag. You can check one for the return if you need to.
4. Many times we have said that we wished we had packed a selfie stick and compact binoculars--so now we try to remember to take them along.

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Travel Prep & Packing Tips!

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