Ziploc Bags + Vanessa= BFF?

"Own only what you can carry with you; know language, know countries, know people. Let your memory be your travel bag." -Alexander Solzhenitsyn

Let's hope that this is an effective packing tip!!! I must admit that it does seem a bit daunting to think about only taking what I ABSOLUTELY need with me on my journey. Everything else will be taking a year long sabbatical in storage.

Thankfully, friends with previous study abroad experience are proving invaluable. They have offered up incredibly helpful tips, suggestions and opinions. They have even answered bizarre questions from me with a straight face (I have the best friends).

Some of my favorite suggestions from the past week:

• "Take a ton of Ziploc bags with you! You can't find them in Europe readily and you never know when you might get bed bugs in a hostel." Point taken.
• "Waterproof your shoes; nothing says enjoyment like perpetually wet feet."
• "Be prepared to wear the same thing over and over again. Whatever you take; you'd better love it."
• "Remember, if you do need something, you CAN buy it there!"
• "You'll get good at reading maps. I promise." If only I had a dime for every time I have heard that....I would surely be a millionaire by now.

I'll keep you posted on other fun suggestions. Feel free to post your suggestions as well.

-Vanessa