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Writer's pictureJane Jensen

Packing Light

Do not plan on checking a bag even if you can. You can last for two weeks on one carryon and a backpack/tote. And you will not want the extra weight. You know how hikers consider every ounce? You should think like a hiker. Your back will thank you (even with roller bags). There are lots of websites about this.


What kind of bag? Lightweight and nimble. Wheels add weight and we go up and down lots of stairs and across cobblestones, etc. Wheels make the load light, however, and you'll enjoy having a ready-made travel cart. If you choose not to use a rolling bag, make sure you have backpack straps. Do not try to use a duffel with one shoulder strap...trust me, it won't go well.


Give yourself a limit of 10 kilos for everything. Just try. And then try putting everything INTO one bag. Along our journey we will occasionally leave our luggage at the hotel or train station in a secure "luggage storage" location. So you need to be able to put EVERYTHING into one bag with only a small bag for sightseeing to take with you.


You daily bag(s). Plan on having a day bag that you can carry in front of you when in a crowd (sling or cross body work best, but backpack is ok). You'll want to have room for your notebook/art supplies, extra layers, snacks, and water bottle. You might also bring a smaller bag for when you're going out in the neighborhood of our hotel. An extra sport backpack/string bag that packs to nothing and can be stored in your day bag is helpful for grocery shopping/if you need to store a jacket.


Here’s a sample of Jane’s one-bag packing list:


Technology & Stuff

  • IPad or ipad mini with cell capacity (with European prong attachment for the charger)...you can use your phone for data if you don't have data ipad.

  • Smart Phone with camera (we will discuss options for phone accessibility)

  • Lightweight Journal

  • Sunglasses, reading glasses (I'm old)

  • Headphones (extra pair of plug in headphones for plane)

Shoes

  • walking flats/sneakers

  • Somewhat dressy Sandals (comfy heel)

  • Comfy Closed Toe Heels or Boots (Paris and Rome can be pretty dressy)

  • (Guys...you'll want shoes you can walk all day in, but that you don't feel too casual walking into a nice restaurant in)

  • flip flops...I don’t pack them (don’t like ‘em) but students often do. Just be careful where you wear them outside of the hotel.

Clothes

  • Heavyish Spring Jacket (denim or blazer style)

  • Lightweight sweater (x2 if I have room)

  • Raincoat. Depending on which one I bring, I might ditch the cotton Jacket.

  • Dresses (x3)

  • Skirts (x4)

  • Tops (x3 sleeveless, x2 mid length sleeve, x1 long sleeve-wool is best)

  • Leggings (short, 3/4, and a pair of tights if I can find them)

  • Unmentionables (all easy to wash and dry overnight)

  • Nightgown (my rain coat serves as bathrobe)

  • (Note on jeans...avoid if possible as they take forever to dry.)

  • (Guys...you'll want lightweight pants that can be washed out, non-brand t-shirts short and long sleeve, a button down, and maybe a blazer that doubles as a jacket for going out in the cities).


Toiletries

  • travel size containers of important stuff (e.g. conditioner). I've switched to solid shampoo.

  • Hairdryer & brush (I have a European hairdryer I bought on a previous trip). Most hotels will have hairdryer, but you will be sharing and will not have a lot of time.

  • Heat appliances like hairdryers, straighteners, and curling irons REALLY DON’T LIKE changing voltage, so make sure you have the right adapters and think about sharing.

  • travel mirror

  • travel soap (powder form) for doing light laundry and one packet for laundromat


First aid & Pharmacy

  • tummy medicine (to calm a tummy down and/or get things moving)

  • sudafed and Benedryl (inevitably someone gets a cold and/or stung by something)

  • allergy meds (if you have allergies BRING YOUR MEDS!!! We will be traveling through the worst of hayfever season in all locations).

  • neosporin

  • ibuprofin

  • bandaids

  • Blister stuff

  • Prescription meds in their original containers...enough for a month and a copy of the prescription printed. (look up each of your medications for the countries we are visiting to make sure there are no issues AND talk to your medical provider about travel).

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