How to Pack for Your Weekend Abroad

Hey guys! My name’s Lauren Healy, I’m a senior at Clarion University of Pennsylvania and I’m the CEA MOJO in Rome for the Fall 2014 semester!

So, one of the best parts about studying abroad is the fact that traveling all over Europe is relatively cheap! And the fact that we don’t have classes on Fridays makes it that much easier to get out and see the world. We just gotten through the halfway point. Since I’ve been to about 6 places already, I’ve learned how to prepare for weekends.

I’m going to go through some must haves, things to make sure you NEVER forget, and then how to wear one article of clothing, multiple ways to save space in your bag! Ready?! Let’s go!

Number one: I suggest packing in a back pack or a duffel bag, Different airlines have different restrictions, so if you have a bag that can squish in tight spaces easily, I would highly recommend that.

Number two: The necessities: This may sound like a given but it’s important to pack toiletries. Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, conditioner, face wash, are the essentials. If you want to be extra safe, bring those little extras like lotion, contacts and glasses (if you wear them), and makeup for girls. Bring plastic bags to put your liquids into; for most airlines this is a strict given.

Number three: A towel! It’s always a good idea to bring a towel with you because some hostels and air b&b’s don’t provide them OR make you pay to rent them.

Number four: Print out all your papers! Make sure you have checked into to your airlines as soon as they tell you to! Also print our your boarding passes, your bus ticket to get to the airport and have the directions ready on how to get to your hostel from the airport.

Number five: BRING COMFORTABLE SHOES! When you’re not sleeping, you’re on your feet so it’s so important to bring practical footwear. Your feet will be thanking you by the end of your weekend.

Number six: DON’T FORGET YOUR CHARGERS! You’re going to need a phone charger, and if you bring a camera your camera charger. If you have your boarding pass downloaded on your phone, you’ll need to make sure it’s charged and ready to go! If not, standing in line at the airport can take up valuable time or even a delay in getting to your gate! Definitely something you’ll want to avoid!

Number seven: Check the weather and pack accordingly! If it’s going to be cold and rainy, bring a raincoat and warm clothes. If it’s going to be sunny, wear layers, so if you get hot you can take something off.

With that being said number eight: Check out the video to see how you can make one piece and turn it into three COMPLETELY different outfits!

Thanks so much for watching guys! Next time, I’ll be taking you on a walk through my neighborhood, the major spots, and a highlight of my favorite places and the best places to get treats!

Lauren Healy is the CEA MOJO blogger in Rome for the Fall 2014. She's currently a senior at Clarion University of Pennsylvania.

Ciao for now!!!