Packing Like A Pro
As the trip is getting closer, now is a good time for us to start thinking about what we’re going to take with us...and most importantly, how we’re going to fit it all in! Our top tip is to keep checking the kit list and tick it off when you have something that you need.
Ultimately, you know yourself better than anyone else so you will know what is comfortable for you, but the following tips and guidance may be helpful...
1. Packing cubes
You may have heard of these before or you may have just heard people raving about them. Used correctly, they can not only save you space, but also keep your kit organised and tidy whilst on the move. There are loads of different size and colour options available on sites such as Amazon, or you can use small bags of your own (i.e. wash bags, draw strings backs, boot bags).
2. Fold like a pro
Space saving is key when backpacking and the way you fold your items (especially clothing) can make a difference. There are making different folding tips and techniques. However, follow the YouTube for one method that keeps you clothes compact, (mostly) wrinkle free and would be great to use with packing cubes!
3. Only pack what you need
Once you have squeezed everything into your bag, you need to carry it and nobody wants to carry an immensely heavy rucksack. Be brutal and only bring exactly what you’ll need. It’s unlikely that you’ll need a clean top and pair of trousers or shorts for every day so try and double, or even triple, up where possible. Obviously, this does not mean going without essentials to keep you warm and dry, so think carefully about the layers that you will and how easily they can be packed.
4. Keeping yourself entertained
This may seem a bit odd after a post about only packing the essentials, but keeping yourself occupied is also very important. The nature of our trip means we get to see 3 beautiful countries, but to also means A LOT of travel time so you’ll need to keep yourselves entertained. Putting your heads together may be useful here. Perhaps one person could bring a pack of cards whilst another brings a compact travel game (games with small pieces might not be wise!)
Also, don’t forget about your travel journals. A few pens and stickers aren’t going to take up a huge amount of room in your bag but you may want to keep the really artistic stuff until you get home. It’s up to you. However, it’s be very wise keep a short diary of every day so that you don’t forget anything, and collect memories (e.g. tickets, pictures etc.) as you go along. It’ll be very hard to remember 12 days of action at the end of the trip. Plus, it’ll be incredibly useful a your presentation after the trip, which is one of our key challenges set by the Region International Team!
Here are just a few tips and tricks to help make packing easier but this is by no means a full list. If you find any handy tricks that you think we all need to know about, feel free to send them to our email address balkansnwe2019@gmail.com so we can share it with you all. We also have a Pinterest board with a few handy tips for packing and travel in general (you’ll find some excellent travel journal ideas on there!) Please check it out as new stuff will be added regularly.
Happy packing!
Comments
Post a Comment