I love to travel, but I hate getting ready to travel. (You all know what I’m talking about.) It’s the preparation that kills me. You seriously have to THINK about what you’re going to pack because, let’s face it, as much as you want to pack your whole closet and bathroom in your suitcase, it’s never going to happen.

I’m going to the Philippines so I need to pack appropriately. The problem is, I am a winter person. Majority of my closet consists of black clothes, pea coats, a plethora of sweaters, long sleeved shirts and jeans. (So you see my problem.) After much consultation with my brain, I decided my Threadless shirts would be my best bet. However, I have this nagging voice in the back of my head (which surprisingly enough sounds like my parents) saying, “You have to look nice! Bring dress shirts and no ripped jeans!”

……….

Another problem, all my jeans are too long so most of the time, the bottoms end up ripped because I step on them. (I’m in college, who really cares anyway?) My sister on the other hand takes care of her jeans so she graciously loaned me a pair. (Or I took, sometimes I get confused.)

When it comes to bathroom products, that’s another story. With security as strict as it is now, I must turn to the internet to tell me what I am allowed to pack and in what fashion. Yes, it is a pain to do this. I’ve been traveling to the Philippines for years and it used to be a lot easier to pack, but I understand that all these rules were put in place for our safety. (Trust me, I love safety. A LOT. But I’m allowed to complain because I vote. The political scientist in me folks.) So what I’m not allowed to take in a water bottle or I am only allowed a certain amount of ounces, that must be packed in a sandwich bag should I decide to put it in my carry on. (Seriously, I’m not kidding, that’s really how it is.)

I hate the preparation, (I know it’s important!) but I wouldn’t ever give up the experience of traveling. It’s amazing to go to another country and experience a different lifestyle and culture that you’re used to. (I’m of Filipino heritage, but I grew up in America. Don’t get on my case!) I hope I have not discouraged any of you to not travel. Travel the world because you haven’t lived until you’ve explored a new place!