This may be my last travel post about our recent trip to Europe (or maybe not). But I can’t be done until I talk about what I packed that worked…..or didn’t.
Just before we left, I was zooming with a friend who is a frequent overseas traveler. She advised me to ‘pack what you love’. Good advice that I wish I had followed.
I would probably give myself a ‘C’ on my packing this go around. I could have done much worse, but I sure could have done better.
The weather was a bit of a challenge. It was cool when we first arrived in Italy and then the heat came on. By the time we left, we had a few days in the high 80’s with humidity to boot. We ended our trip in Amsterdam which was a good 20 degrees cooler than Italy and a little rainy.
First, my coat. I am giving it a ‘F’. It was lightweight and packed well, but the sleeves weren’t lined. As a result, my arms were wet every time I wore it. I ended up leaving it at the hotel 😊. I did bring a quilted vest which worked for the cool days on the front and back end of our trip.
I packed one too many pants and not the right ones. I should have brought one linen pair, which would have been great for warmer days.
My tee shirts were OK overall, except I brought 2 that I thought would work. Mistake! I ended up hating both because they don’t fit or look quite right. I brought them home, but they are heading to Goodwill.
I always recommend packing clothes that wick. I have had good luck with Zenergy crops from Chicos and packed a pair of cropped ones that I have had for years. I wore every warm day and could even wash them out in the sink. I also brought one long sleeve and 2 short sleeve wicking tops. I could have used more of them and less of my basic cotton ones.
Another ‘F’ was one of the pairs of shoes I brought (slip on Skechers). I sprained my ankle wearing them and retired them immediately. I replaced them with a pair of New Balance 574’s that I purchased in Italy and wore constantly. New Balance are a common sight on the Italian streets. I also packed a pair of Isle Jacobsen flats and sandals and they were great for warm days.
One thing I’m glad I brought was a large, lightweight scarf made of modal. I used it as a light blanket for naps and hot nights. I wish I packed the satin pillowcase our daughter gave me. It would have been perfect to keep my hair from going crazy since I wasn’t washing it daily. I also wish I had packed the dry shampoo from her for the same reason.
We went to the lavanderia (laundromat) twice when we were in Italy. Each trip cost about 20 euros (about $21.50), so it isn’t a cheap date. But we both now think it is better to wash a little more frequently than to pack too much in the first place!
‘Packing for a trip can be exciting. But unpacking is always depressing’. – Unknown
Allene
Travels with Allene 