While lugging my trusty backpack across The Continent was certainly more convenient than my poor sister's gigantic rolling suitcase, there were quite a few items no guidebook or seasoned fellow traveler mentioned. Preparing oneself to see the amazing sights this world has to offer on the cheap, there are a few things everybody tells you to pack: sensible "walking" shoes, extra cash, a calling card, a map of where you're going.
Then there are the things nobody tells you to pack and you find yourself 3,000 miles from home wishing there was some sort of guide directing you towards comfort and security in a foreign land. A list of must haves for the stylish but frugal traveler. Well, that list has arrived.
Unobvious Things All Backpackers Should Pack
-Stylish tennis shoes with gel pads already inserted in bottom. Under no circumstances should you ever, ever bring those dorky Nike's you love so much for the gym. However,
Keds, Converse, and ballet flats kill your feet on the cobblestone streets. The solution? Insert a pair of gel pads in the bottom of your favorite cute tennis shoes prior to departure. Bring an extra set in case they wear out or you feel like being a generous traveling companion for the less prepared.
-Tiny Pillow. Long plane, train, and bus rides are greatly improved with some neck support.
-Mini pedicure kit. I'm not sure if mini pedicure kits even exist, but it's easy to create one for yourself with some clippers, a file, clear polish, foot scrub and lotion tossed into a Ziploc bag. Even with aforementioned gel pads, you're putting your feet through some serious daily grind while backpacking and they need some TLC before they'll be fit for your open-toed espadrilles.
-Practical messenger bag which does not cut into your shoulder with its rough fabric. Make sure it has enough room to comfortably fit: laptop with case and charger, i-pod and charger, travel docs, 2 books, water bottle, and wallet.
-Folder for your travel docs. Including copies of your passport, credit cards, flight/hotel info and itinerary (or suspected itinerary for spontaneous types). A separate folder of all of the same copies should be left with a trusted friend or family member at home.
-Pre-researched list of all the free things to do in every city you plan on visiting. Reina Sofia is free after 6! You have to reserve a time to walk through the
Gaudi buildings! Wish I would've known these things before planning my day. The clever frugal traveler may be able to save hundreds of euros this way.
-Warm jacket, umbrella, and knit hat. Without fail, every vacation I go on at least 2 days will be freezing and raining. From Vegas to South America, the Caribbean and now Europe you'd think a girl would learn to pack a decent emergency cold weather kit. It might be heavy in your backpack, but you will be thanking your lucky stars you didn't waste precious booze money on yet another jacket that you will store for 11 months out of the year.
-Small flashlight. Lights out in a dorm hostel at 11? Bring a back up.
-Swiss army knife. For protection, and switch blades are illegal.
-Travel laundry detergent. A small bottle so you can sneak into the staff area of your hostel and do laundry.
-Bohemian purse with top zipper and hidden pocket. No open tops! It's easy to lose things and get
pickpocketed. And the hidden pocket is important for hiding vital documents.
-Comfy hobonighttrain clothes. Trains at night are very cold and embarrassing to wear pajamas on. Layers are key.
-Large sweaters which can double as an itch-free blanket on aforementioned hobonighttrain.
-Tiny blowdryer. Not supplied at any hostel or boutique hotel.
-Jeans and alternate pair of pants. Nobody wants to be stuck wearing the same pair of pants for an entire month. Seriously.
Eurotime pictures to follow, still have to load them on my computer!
Your Golden Girl,
Olive
