Travel Smart

Peru: I paid them about 50 cents for this picture!

I awoke to a stewardess telling me to put my seat in an upright position because we were ready to land. Finally, we have arrived. I rubbed my eyes as a voice replayed in my head. The voice was of my travel partner, B, mocking me for overpacking. As a backpacker, you are supposed to travel with the bare necessities. Well, I had stuffed my hand-me-down red bag with sweaters, long sleeve shirts, tank tops, shorts, and a fall jacket. I was hoping I didn’t overpack because I had to carry that bag all over Peru from the mountains to the jungle. I let out a sigh of relief when I saw my red bag come around on the baggage carousel. I collected my stuff and continued on to my journey of the unknown. As the airport doors opened a gust of cold air came rushing in. Yes, for once I won the game of “ the best traveler!” I pulled out my jacket with a smile and realized I did not overpack.

How do you avoid overpacking?

• ·      Read up on the location
• ·      Map out a plan of attack (or if you are spontaneous like me, don’t worry you can just show up)
• ·      Check the weather
• ·      Ask yourself simple questions (i.e. Do I really need to bring a pair of heels?)
• ·      Pack travel sized bottles (i.e. shampoo, contact solution, etc.)
• ·      Pack lightly because there are laundry services
• ·      Take away half of the clothes that are in front of you (5-6 days worth is perfect)
• ·      Always wear your bulkiest items on your body on travel day (i.e. sneakers, hoodie, & jeans)

How do you prepare for a trip?