Packing Musts..

Hard to believe but packing is as much an art as it is a science.let me explain. a little bit of planning can go along way to making your trip and enjoyable one. After years of traveling with students here is just a few things you may want to consider before you travel.

Kindly note students will be limited to ONE suitcase and ONE travel carry-on!

1. Select your favorite basic color such as black or navy---then build everything around those colors...accessorize with scarves and jewelry for color----be careful your blacks and navy's are the same colors----gosh do you know how many shades of black and navy exist---ugh!---or else you could end up with a fashion citation! <smile>
   
2. A nice large shoulder bag or I suggest a back pack--- to carry camera and extra dress shoes---quick make-up bag---If you insist on a shoulder bag, I prefer the kind of shoulder bag that hugs close UNDER my arm for security and e-z access. Use either the backpack or the shoulder bag for these items ONLY..for carrying money, passport and credit cards I suggest.
   
3. Use one of those safe wallets (around the neck or as the belt kind-work great) for carrying currency, and passport---they are inexpensive and are sold at luggage as well as discount stores for under $15 and they sure beat getting pick-pocketed!
   
4. WEAR comfortable shoes to walk then you can change into the "dress one!" keep the dress shoes in a zip lock baggie with one of those dryer clothes ---to avoid fragrance emergencies tucked away inside your back pack to easily slip on and off.
   
5. Bring another zip lock baggies with small sample size hand cleaner, a commercial sold stain wipe, for stains, aspirin, alka-seltzer and any other fast-must have's---they take up very little room---opt to bring sample size toilet items or better yet---buy while your away instead of extra weight packing----these plastic baggies are also great for make-up bags ---in case of spills or messes.
   
6. For fabric, I like "good matte jersey" ---nylon cotton blends or silk-nylon blends for tops for bottoms and jackets---go for tropical weight wool crepe separates---you do want the fabric to breathe!!! AND hold their shape!!! ---these also pack really light and can be rolled (not folded) easily for more space!
   
7. Don't forget a headset, some knitting or a good book for layovers to keep from getting bored.
   
8. I ALWAYS pack a fold-up small extra suitcase that will fit within my suitcase---I love to shop and this let's me bring things home easily in my extra case!
   
9. ATM cards are great for exchange rates and quick cash while in Europe so consider bringing a combination of Euros, US dollars, traveler checks, and credit /ATM cards.
10. ALWAYS make a photocopy of your charge and passport and traveler check info and hide somewhere in your suitcase ---just in case you are robbed---makes life easier if you have to put your fingers on the numbers etc.
    
11. I do American express traveler checks --because they replace my passport in 24 hours if it is stolen with my money---very cool benefit!

http://travel.state.gov/passport_services.html is for obtaining a US Passport

Well--I think that's about it---more details will be provided to you directly at each meeting.

PLEASE be sure you have provided me with the following:

1. Copies of DL and Passport
2. Room mate preferences
3. Health Release Forms
4. Permission Forms
5. Emergency Contact Information

Bon jour! Ciao, and thanks!

Kathleen