Packing Tips

I suppose it is common knowledge that one's packing list will vary depending on your duration, destination, and season of travel.. However, I have some general tips I was given and tested for myself.  

I have habitually been an over-packer my entire life. When you love clothes as much as I do, you want to bring everything because what if I have the perfect opportunity where I will need this shirt or that scarf.

On this mindset I would have been paying big bucks to check extra baggage on my flight. While preparing for Italy I was soon to realize packing for four months was going to take a lot of thought. I stayed strong and really narrowed down my clothing options. (I will definitely buy more clothes throughout my time here..because duh it is Italy!)

Anyways here are my packing tips:

- Roll your clothes! You can fit so much more!

- Use separate zip bags, this way you can compress a lot of items into one bag. I have a

photo to go along with this. This was super helpful, you can fit more and organize by

different things you are packing. For example: I packed warmer-weather clothes separate

from my bulkier items, also had separate bag for toiletries.

Pro tip: use old comforter/blanket bags instead of buying special bags. Creativity is key!

- Pack some clothes and travel size toiletries in your carry-on in case your check bag gets

lost/misplaced.

- Pack all liquids

inside of plastic in case they decide to break open when your bag gets

jostled around or changes altitude. I can’t speak for you but I know I don’t want toothpaste

in my socks...again.  

- Reusable water bottle, many locations don’t give out water for free so it is good to stay

hydrated without breaking the bank. Little amounts add up! Disclaimer: If traveling by plane,

don’t forget to empty it before packing it.  

- Pack light to preserve room for the fun things you get along the way!

Italy specific tips:

- Rain gear for winter/spring semester

- American snacks you can’t live without (peanut butter!!)

- Outlet converter

- Euros. Get em before you arrive

Four months, easy.