Packing and Buying Abroad

Packing

Listen, there’s no right way to pack. The internet may tell you otherwise. But here are some things that have always worked for me:

  • Checking Luggage: If I’m not checking a bag, I use a soft duffel or backpack for overhead luggage. If you use a small suitcase, I promise it’ll be the first choice for checked baggage when overhead space is limited. However, don’t be a jerk. If you’re bringing a lot of stuff, consider checking. Don’t be that person that jam packs the overhead storage.
  • Packing: In cases where I know I’m going to shop a lot (case in point: I hit up Europe in December), I pack light and bring an empty tote or duffel bag for the way back. I’ve also purchased cheap suitcases during an actual trip. When I went to Japan, I got a suitcase and then paid the $60 to check it on the route home. 
  • Must-Haves: Almost year-round, I travel wearing a huge puffy winter jacket, especially when I’m flying a long way. People look at me like I’m crazy, but it’s like having a sleeping bag with you. You’ll thank me on the plane.

To keep in mind:

  • There’s no right way to pack – do what works for you
  • You always need less than you thought, but don’t skip the things that make you feel special
  • Consider bringing or buying an extra bag

Balancing Your Budget

I’m an advocate for spending abroad. So much in fact, whenever I go, I try to plan for some nice purchases, things I can’t get at home, such as:

  • Shopping (Clothes): Clothing is often of a higher quality than in the US, so I often wait to buy new items while traveling. Sometimes from thrift shops if I’m on a lean budget. When I do that, I only take essentials with me: black leggings or jeans, a white t-shirt, a sweatshirt, and sneakers. 
  • Shopping (Souvenirs): Whether I’m looking for myself or someone else, a massively overlooked place to buy souvenirs is the local grocery store. Cheap, memorable, and fun. Grab a different kind of bread, crackers, or cookies – the non-perishables. 
  • Shopping (Household): I often buy new household items when I’m away as well. I personally find things like mixing spoons, sponges, pots, hairbrushes – honestly, you name it – to be better than a lot of the stuff you can get in the US, and at a much better price. 

Try to shop local when you’re away and observe local customs. Something new to me, for example, was scanning my receipt to exit a store. A lot of countries also adhere to the plastic bag ban.