My Top Packing Tips

Packing is always my least favorite part of any trip. Unfortunately, it's absolutely necessary! I've been on my fair share of trips, and these are my best packing tips:

Pack Staples
I personally am a big fan of relying on basics. That means instead of bringing 6 pairs of shoes, bring just a few pairs that will work with multiple outfits. The same goes with accessories! Bring neutral shoes and accessories and keep the color focused on shirts or dresses. I personally like to bring a good old pair of jeans that I can wear multiple times with different tops. You'll get a lot diverse looks with minimal items! This will help keep your bags light and manageable, while keeping your instagram photos fresh and fun!


Don't Overpack
You may think you are doing yourself a favor by packing extra t-shirts and extra outfits, but generally I find too many choices lead to feeling overwhelmed. You will wind up with a bag that is insanely heavy and your bag will quickly descend into chaos as you rifle through trying to find the perfect top. If you pack specific outfits, you'll save time getting ready for the day and leave more space for souvenirs. Try writing out a packing list and checking each item off as it packs. You'll feel confident knowing you have amazing outfits and everything you'll need!


Don't Panic
Finally, don't worry if you forget something! Honestly, if you have your medications, passport, ID and some money, everything else can be bought once you arrive - unless your destination is somewhere remote. I once lost my entire toiletry kit in Italy and had to replace EVERYTHING. It was actually a bit fun wandering through the store and picking out new shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush and more. You just have to make the best of your situation and remember that you can always buy what you need when you get there!

Different techniques work for different people, and I personally find that having each outfit laid out and packed together makes for an easy, efficient trip! If you'd like help planning for your trip (and even a comprehensive packing list!), I'd love to help. Visit my website at MilesIntoMemoriesTravel.com.

Why I Chose NOT to Do a Destination Wedding

 First off, I have absolutely nothing against destination weddings! I think they can be beautiful and magical and definitely work for some people. That said, here are the reasons we opted to not pursue a destination wedding, despite our love of travel.

Take Guests Into Account

When planning a destination wedding, you should consider your friends and family. Some family members are elderly and not inclined to travel, others may not have the finances to make the trip. If you want your wedding to just be a few very close family members, I would talk the idea over before finalizing any plans. Who knows! Some people may be dying for a pre-organized vacation and it could be a hit.

 Convenience

 Planning a wedding is a HUGE undertaking. Trying to coordinate florists, ministers, reception halls, DJ's, caterers and more. It is a LOT of work. Having your venue be within driving distance is much easier than trying to juggle time zones and international call rates. Unless you can find a reliable on-site coordinator to help you out, it may be prove to be almost impossible! And on top of arranging the usual wedding vendors, you'll also likely be asked to make international travel arrangements for loved ones.

Less Expensive

Finally, consider the costs. On top of all the usual wedding costs, you have to include international airfare which can easily climb above $1000. It all depends on how big your ceremony and reception are, but typically, weddings are expensive even when they are local. And don't forget about currency conversion! Of course, you can also off set the costs of travel by ultimately hosting a very small, intimate ceremony and reception abroad. Smaller = usually less expensive.

Ultimately, my husband and I were really happy with our choice to stay local. We found an absolutely gorgeous venue that was like an actual castle! We decided to do the event without an organizer - or should I say paid organizer. My husband and I spent hours and hours coordinating everything ourselves, and it ultimately went really well! We had an amazing time!

If you and your fiance are considering an international wedding, I would be happy to help coordinate the travel. Check out my website at MilesIntoMemoriesTravel.com.

Airport Tips and Tricks

Airports are inevitable if you're an adventure seeker like myself. Airports are synonymous with lines and long waits, but I've found what works for me, and I thought I'd share my tips.


Step One: Leave Yourself Time!
This is honestly the biggest tip I can offer. If you leave yourself just twenty minutes to check your bag, go through security and catch your flight, you are going to be so stressed and have an unpleasant experience. I always find that the more time I leave, the easier the check in process is. Inevitably, when you are running late, the baggage check and security lines are insane.


Step Two: Bring Entertainment
I am a huge fan of stocking up on activities! I like things that fit easily in my backpack that don't require power. Some examples include: an adult coloring book, paperback books, notebook, sketchbook, knitting (with airport-friendly needles). Bring a variety of activities!


Step Three: Roll With It
Finally, just be ready for delays, cancellation and a little bit of chaos. Anyone who has travelled a great deal has had a terrible airport day. You just need to accept that as part of traveling. For example, on our honeymoon, we missed our connecting flight to Portugal and wound up stranded in Madrid for 12 hours. We made the most of it and explored Spain! Just because we could! No matter where you get stuck, try to make the most of it. If you're stuck in airport, take a nap, Skype a friend, make up a silly game. You will eventually get to where you need to be, and a bad attitude never helped anyone!