Packing for Europe: Tips and Reminders

It is incredible to think that in just ten days, we will be on our way to Europe! Many of you may have started to think about what you should pack for Europe - and if you're like me, for the last 18 months, you have gauged all clothing purchases on a scale of "How awesome will this look as I stroll the streets of Amsterdam/Bruges/Paris?!" 

To help you prepare for packing, here are a few tips and reminders:

• Western Europe is in the midst of a record-breaking heatwave. Last week in Paris, it reached 103.5 degrees F. - the highest temperature on record there since 1873!! This put me in a bit of a panic (I am not a fan of the extreme heat - especially in Europe where there is little air conditioning and ice) and prompted me to check the extended forecasts for our travels. If the weather does what is predicted, I am happy to report that in: 
• Amsterdam: we should enjoy moderate days in the low 70s and cooler evenings in the upper 50s.
• Bruges: more moderate days in the upper 60s and evenings in the upper 50s.
• Paris: I couldn't get more than a 14 day extended forecast, so I will update this in a few days. It does appear, though, that if the weather stays consistent (that is a big IF) it will be in the upper 70s/lower 80s in the days...fingers crossed!
• Speaking of weather, don't forget to pack:
• Sunscreen (especially for our biking trip and our day at Versailles!)
• A small, lightweight umbrella
• A sweater/sweatshirt for cooler evenings or rainy days
• Now, let's talk about bathing. Here's a quirky little thing we have discovered about Europe - the unfortunate absence of washcloths. Towels? Yes. Bathmats? Sometimes. Washcloths? Nope. So, unless you feel comfortable washing off city grunge for 10 days with just a bar of soap and your bare hands, you might wish to pack a loofa or a couple of washcloths from home. And don't forget to bring a Ziploc baggie to store your damp ones. 
• To make more space in your suitcase, try rolling your clothes (this works especially well for shirts and dresses). If you're worried about wrinkles, buy a sample size of Downy Wrinkle Release (I believe Target has some left). It works well and makes your clothes smell fresh!
• The most important thing to remember: YOUR PASSPORT!!! We will not let you on the bus without it. Be sure you have a safe place to store it so it will be easily accessible when we arrive at the airport. 

One final thought...wear something comfortable and in layers for the plane ride. It can get pretty chilly on planes, and you don't want to be cold for 8 hours. Also, keep in mind that the clothes you wear on Monday, you will remain in until Tuesday night. We typically do not have the opportunity to change until, at the earliest, supper time on Tuesday. You will spend about 36 hours in the same clothes, so make sure you like what you have on!