Wednesday, November 18, 2009

What I've Learned...

Since I've returned home the question everyone asking me is "What was your favourite place you visited?" Ugh, that is the WORST question ever because it is SO hard to answer! I loved all the places I went to for all different reasons...whether it be the people, the food, the scenery...every place was so unique and wonderful in its own way! So if you do ask me that question, be prepared for a really long answer!

This was my first backpacking trip and I definitely learned a lot when it came to what to pack and what to leave at home. I was pretty happy with my decisions besides a few small changes I would make for next time! I wish I had brought a laptop with me- probably not the one I own right now because it is pretty bulky and heavy, but one of those small Netbooks would have been great! It would have been so convenient for my blog, for uploading pictures...I'm definitely going to look into buying one if I continue to travel!

Some things I am glad I brought and would recommend to other people:
1) eyeshades - If you're staying in a dorm room people are constantly coming and going at all hours. If you don't want to be woken up by someone turning on the lights, this is a lifesaver! I would also suggest ear plugs if you need things to be dead quiet to sleep!
2) flip-flops - They are not only useful for the beach, but also for those communal showers at the hostel! I fortunately didn't encounter anything too nasty, but better safe than sorry!
3) Hand sanitizer/Kleenex - When ya gotta go, ya gotta go! But sometimes the facilities aren't always the cleanest or they're not stocked with toilet paper or soap...be prepared!
4) ziploc bags - I kept all my clothes in baggies to keep them organized and clean, as well as to make it easier for me to find stuff in my backpack! Lots of people made fun of me but I don't care! I also brought extra bags for lunches and what not.

Some things I didn't really need:
1) sleeping bag - it was suuuper tiny and didn't take up that much space, but I only used it a couple of times. Next time I would just bring a sheet instead!
2) Eurail Train Pass - it wasn't as convenient as I thought it would be! I still had to wait in line to make a reservation for most of my trains so it didn't save me any time. Also, sometimes the bus was cheaper or more convenient but I felt forced to take the train since it was already paid for. And I really don't think I saved that much money by buying the pass vs. paying separately for all my trips.

Hopefully this info helps if you are planning on taking a backpacking trip in the future! I'm still no expert, but maybe one day!

Love, Dianna

No comments:

Post a Comment