As of right now, I've separated my belongings into two bags; one for the fifteen day backpacking adventure, and the other for my semester abroad. Tips for backpacking: Travel as lightly as possible!! I've only brought a pair of tennis shoes and some water proof shower sandals, a couple old t-shirts and comfy jeans, small, travel size shampoo/conditioner bottles, toothbrush/paste, along with one cute little black dress that I've had for years. I found a really neat quick-dry camping towel I'll use for hostel showers, as well as some plastic bags for my swimsuit and dirty clothes. Remember, don't take anything abroad that you wouldn't mind losing. I've also packed a couple Nalgene bottles, because I've heard that buying water bottles abroad can be pretty expensive. We ordered a Eurail pass for our train rides a few weeks in advance. It is tourist season, after all. I've also invested in some awesome passport/money pouches, so I can keep my valuables safe and on my body at all times. This isn't my first trip abroad, as I've lived in Peru for part of a summer. It's safe to say that I feel much more comfortable traveling to Europe than I did to a third world country. But still just as excited!!
As for my big semester abroad bag, I've included a few more pairs of reliable footwear, old coats, worn jeans, and nice blouses for class. I figure I can buy whatever toiletries I need in Canterbury, as well as thicker winter coats. I also decided to skip bringing hats, scarves, boots, etc, because they take up extra space and the clothes I buy there will be awesome souvenirs. Make sure to bring with you any medicines, both prescription and over the counter, with you on the plane. Heaven forbid your luggage get lost between flights, and you're stranded without the necessities. I've also aired on the side of caution and backed up all of my computer files in case my Mac is stolen, lost, or broken on the way.
My plane boards tomorrow morning bright and early, so I'm off to get some shut eye. I'll be back in a few days (if I can find a good internet cafe) to let everyone know how the trip is going so far. Until then!
xox
Kat
