While I am still putting a dent in my photo editing from both of my amazing trips, here's a quick list of random as all get out traveling tips that resonated with me/I learned the last month:
![]() |
Mexico on Left, Italy on Right. |
- Fill your shoes in your suitcase with delicate items to save space/ensure safety- I put each piece of my jewelry into individual bags and tucked them inside my sneakers. They were safe from harm and it utilized extra space.
- Always carry a pen. Mostly for the abundance of forms that will be placed in front of you but also because you're likely without cell service and will need to be able to physically write your number down on that hot foreign man's arm.
- Don't be friendly at the European train stations. When my Brother told me this, the polite smiler in me scoffed. But once we got there and the wolves ascended with offers of helping me move my bag, or giving me directions, etc.... I was happy to have my Brother next to me telling them to **** off. They're not nice gentlemen (a rare breed as is), they're working you for money. Be confident and own your space. #LikeABoss
- Bring an empty duffel bag to take back as carry-on if you plan on shopping and to displace the weight in your checked bag. I have never successfully followed this rule ahead of time... but in my next life, I will.
- Google travel Blogs before you pack with tips about packing for your final destination! Even if the information is old, it will still serve as a reminder of what you really need and what you can leave behind. As my packing could be documented in an episode of 'Hoarders', I appreciate the pressure of someone else telling me what not to do. And it's kind of nice to have it come in the form of a friendly blog, rather than a judgmental older sister (Hi Jocie!, love you!).
- Bring tall socks for the plane. I can't stress how much I love pulling those bad boys out and trying to seal up to sleep. Cozy!
- Ensure that you have some non-electronic entertainment- airports nickel and dimeing' with their Wi-Fi charges and ensuring that there's not enough electrical outlets to accommodate more than 3 people means that you are often off the grid. Grab a book and enjoy its steadfast loyalty to you during your travels.
- Be beyond comfortable saying "No, gracias" constantly in Mexico. Even to little children. Unfortunately, after a few brews, my love of children got the best of me when I was down there. If anyone wants to buy 20 crappy trinkets... please inquire within. Or some Chiclet.
- Relax in a way you don't at home and without an ounce of shame: order a drink or two on the flight, read a tabloid mag, play a dumb computer game, watch 4 movies in a row... it's so rare that we are forced to relax in such a way without responsible temptation all around us- I say you take advantage of it.
Any random tip that helps get you from Point A to Point B sanely?