TravelGuide
TRAVEL TIPS: PACKING
OrangeDivider
Packed and ready for the Alps
PACK LIGHT! We recommend bringing one suitcase and one carry-on bag. If your tour includes an overnight train, try to bring as small a suitcase as possible; your luggage will be stored in the same sleeping car as you and your fellow travelers, so for your comfort and theirs, pack light!
OpenQuotes When I pack, I pack once. Then I dump everything out of my suitcase and cut it in half. You really underestimate how much you will be buying and needing room for. CloseQuotes Amanda Workman Eastern Kentucky University Grand Tour of Europe, June 2008
slant
OpenQuotes One thing I always make sure to pack is a travel pillow, because it doesn't take up a whole suitcase and it will make your travels a little more comfortable. CloseQuotes Willie Downs Tyler Junior College Exotic Thailand, May 2008
slant
OpenQuotes The things I can't do without on tour: my digital camera, disposable face washcloths, and lots of vitamin-C! CloseQuotes Sarah Canfield Louisiana Tech University Spain, France and Italy, May 2008
slant
Below is a sample packing list to help you prepare for your trip. Remember, these are our suggestions. You're not limited to these items and should pack what is necessary for you. Most importantly, pack as light as you can.
  1. Clothes (socks, underwear, t-shirts, pants, sweaters if you're going somewhere cold)
  2. Passport
  3. Copy of your passport
  4. Copies of your flight and hotel itineraries (leave one copy with someone at home)
  5. Comfortable walking shoes (sneakers/tennis shoes are good)
  6. One or two dressier outfits. Some clubs have strict dress codes (no jeans/no sneakers). It's a good idea to bring a nice pair of pants and shoes.
  7. If you're traveling in summer, bring a sweater or a light jacket, as it can be cool at night.
  8. When going inside the Vatican and many other cathedrals you must cover your shoulders. A shawl for women will suffice. Also, skirts and shorts must fall at or below knee level.
  9. iPod
  10. Cameras, batteries, film
  11. Battery-operated alarm clock (your hotel room may not have an alarm clock, and you can't enjoy the sights if you're asleep.)
  12. Converter and adapter – Electrical outlets and wattage abroad differs from the U.S. You’ll need these to use any electrical items (for example a hair dryer or iPod charger). You can find these at any travel store.
  13. Cell phone – If you plan on bringing your cell, ask your provider about international service and the fees associated with international calls.
  14. Passport/money holder – These are a simple way to keep track of these important items. You can also find them at most travel stores.
  15. Credit/debit cards – We recommend using credit and/or debit cards as your primary money source while abroad. For more related info, check out our MONEY page.
  16. Cash – Before you depart, go to your bank and exchange some USD ($40-50) to the local currency of the country you’ll visit first.
  17. Medication – Bring enough for the length of the tour plus two or three days. Pack some in your carry-on bag in case you get separated from your luggage. You should also bring a copy of your written prescriptions.
  18. Sunscreen
  19. Sunglasses
  20. Umbrella
  21. Journal
  22. Addresses of friends and family for postcards