If you’re like me, you tend to pack your whole closet regardless of the length of the trip. Going to Florence, Italy for a month this summer is going to challenge my normal packing routine. It’s not long enough where I need to bring my entire wardrobe, but long enough where I need more than one pair of shorts. Ugh, first world problems. So for my personal sake, and for anyone who’s reading this, I’ve compiled a list of the absolute essentials for a month-long trip abroad this summer.
Firstly, makeup setting spray. No matter your destination, this spray will be a lifesaver for your makeup. If you’re sweating, in the rain, (crying?), dealing with extreme wind, this setting spray is going to keep your makeup in tact so you don’t look like a typical American tourist pulling out your compact mirror and fixing your face every ten minutes. Try Urban Decay’s “All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray”.
Secondly, an adapter for the outlets. This is probably the most crucial item you’re going to bring. All outlets are not the same, and it’s better to find out beforehand. The adapter plugs into the wall outlet, and then you plug whatever device you’re using into the adapter. If you want to blow dry your hair, straighten it, or charge your computer and phone, this adapter is your best friend. Best Buy offers a set of adapters for almost every country you would most likely visit.
Thirdly, it’s important to know the cultural norms of wherever you’re going. I went to Italy in 7th grade and I was forced to buy a body wrap to cover up my short jean skirt (I know…) before I went into a church. As if I wasn’t awkward enough at that point, I had to add this ugly brown body wrap.
Don’t be caught in my situation – make sure you bring long enough skirts, usually touching the knee, that you can wear for any kind of tour or sight-seeing. Also, make sure to have a good, solid-color cardigan on hand to cover up your shoulders if you’re going sleeveless. Churches and other religious monuments have strict dress codes that won’t let you in without proper attire.
And lastly, just some more friendly packing tips: If you’re going with a friend, split the hair tools: one of you brings a hair dryer, and the other brings a straightener. Bring a “special occasion” dress. You never know what “occasion” you’re going to find yourself in. And don’t forget an umbrella; that could save you a lot of trouble. So instead of packing everything you own, make sure you have these few essentials and you have some savvy-ness in your packing journey.
Photo Sources:
http://www.bhmpics.com/view-florence_italy_2-1920×1200.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Vatican-tourists-queuing-at-St-Peter-6598.jpg