Helpful things I learned travelling

Greetings and Buon Natale (or Merry Christmas)!! I finally made it home in time for the holidays. During some of my long layovers and delays I thought of some useful things I've learned while being abroad and travelling. So whether your going abroad in a few weeks, travelling to relatives, or snowed in these little things really can make a difference.

1. Pack lightly because you never know if your going to have to lug around all your bags or if you will have to carry a majority of them. Channel minimalist ideals.

2. Bring a watch! I have never been a big fan of wearing a watch, but once I arrived in Italy I found myself not always knowing the time and having to constantly keep my phone on me for that sole reason. I personally like the little kid inspired watches!

3. Bring comfortable shoes! They may not be as cute or seem like a pain to pack them but after a long day on your feet you'll be glad you did!

4. Pack a water bottle or Nalgene. All too often rest stops and convenient stores over charge for bottled water. So before you go pack one for when you get thirsty. If your flying pack it in your carry-on (empty of course) and fill up once through security!

5. Don't forget your phone charger. You never know how much you may use your phone and need it down the road.

6. Keep your camera handy! You never know when a great photo might present itself to you. And later down the road you will be glad you documented it!

7. If your going abroad buy International phone calling cards before you go. Even if you have a international phone you never know when your phone might not work or need to call home easily. (Before you go make sure to get any country access codes).

8. Try and get to know some locals. If your spending some time in an area try and get to know the place from a local and veer off the touristy path. It's fun meeting new people in cities and learning about the cool places in a new city.

9. Plan ahead! Whether you bring maps of the area your going to, check out what to see in the city, or research the public transportation. You'll be glad you did so.

10. Have a back-up plan. Even if your back-up plan isn't much of a plan have an idea of what to do if your plans don't go accordingly.

11. Patience. Travelling can be very stressful and draining just try to have patience and go with the flow. If things don't go according to your plans or if problems arise remain calm because everything happens for a reason.