Thursday, August 4, 2011

Packalackin!!

Copy of passport... check.
Laminated copy of passport...
check.
Scanned pdf of passport...
check.
Actual passport...
check.
 
... Thanks to my Papa Solow's incredible attention to detail, I think my identity will still be intact when I cross the border to Guatemala this-coming Saturday. 

I have slowly been corralling items to take with me, piling them high on my sister's old bed. At this point, I am almost ready to cram everything into a carry-on rolly bag, but things seem to keep being added to the list..."small roll of toilet paper", "knitted cap", "Airborne".... 


Does anyone have any packing wisdom to share? I welcome your advice! 
 
The organized mess of preparation.

Just in case...

Got my Airborne and cough drops. I am now unstoppable.


Super stylish money belt.

6 comments:

  1. Sistaaa! I am so glad you have started this blog, to share with us your wonderful adventures! I'm trying to think of what advice I might have for you in terms of packing, based on my international travel experiences.

    You may already be doing this, but bring lots of zip-lock freezer-size bags (good for packing and squishing down clothes, sorting stuff, etc). Bring a scarf (always comes in handy). I like bringing small, travel-size items, like packs of tissues, bottles of shampoo, etc - I know it's kinda wasteful, but that way I discard items as I go, and it makes for a little extra room in my bag on the way home (for all those gifties I bring home for everyone!). This is very important - bring something that will be FUN TO READ. When I got sick in Egypt, I was so thankful that I'd crammed a really light read-type book into my bag, because it entertained and distracted me when I wasn't feeling well. I had also brought more serious reading material, which I barely touched.

    Don't hold back on buying mementos and souvenirs from your travels - there are some things I regret not buying in Egypt, because I was worried I wouldn't be able to fit them in my luggage. Lesson - there is always a way, even if it means checking an extra bag on the way home. It's worth it.

    I guess that's all I can think of! Be smart and stay safe and have fun!!! And let's talk before you leave. Love you!

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  2. Julita! Thrilled to see this blog and look forward to your postings as you share experiences with friends and family -- what a great idea!

    As for packing...well...I think I've done quite enough damage on that front. (-:

    Love always,
    Faja

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  3. Hey Jewel! I wrote a long note last night and it disappeared...trying again, but I sent a message on your facebook page (I think!)

    We are so proud of you and excited for you!
    Bec's suggestion was great about things to not bring back - we even did that with clothes. We brought stuff we expected to give away and replace with things we got there...in various third world travels. It will be fun to talk story when we next see you! Hey! I traded my rainbow sunglasses for a beautiful Mayan huipil! I would have given them away, but the recipient insisted...sometimes we'd find out before we went what folks most needed...
    Much love and admiration, bright spirit!
    - Susan and Peter

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  4. Hey! Another suggestion! Bring a totally foldable big extra duffle that fits easily into your luggage and use that for the extra bag you'll bring back! We brought back rugs even from Chiapas, they were so beautiful. And lots of hammocks for everyone. And cloth. The woven rug we still have in the apartment was a big wool one from San Cristobal.
    - S

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  5. Thank you so much for these great tips!! I will most definitely take them into account as I get stuff together for my journey :)

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  6. Love the security roll :p

    Have sooooo much fun!! And Be safe..lol even though it has coffee on it don't forget the the page that says "you're getting too close" and threatens to punch someone in the nose.

    Miss you so much and hope you have the time of your life!!!!

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