First let’s fly through lunch…
Thursday's Grub
Today’s meal included two servings of Carba Nada egg fettuccine pasta, marinara meat sauce, spinach and marinated artichokes.
Marinated Artichokes = Best Part
The marinated artichokes totally made this meal. They’re 5,000 times tastier than regular canned artichokes. These particular ‘chokes were actually super oily, but I’m not complaining because they were fantastic.
Before moving on, I should let you know that the Fashion page was updated this afternoon!
And now for a guest post from Kristen! 😀
Kristen is the author behind the blog Anywhere There’s an Airport and after she left the most amazing comment on my blog when I posted about my upcoming trip to Europe, I visited her blog and was blown away. She is well-traveled, savvy, beautiful, smart and has the best tips for traveling abroad when all you can bring is one teeny, tiny suitcase.
I hope you enjoy her guest post about traveling to Europe with only one carry on as much as I did!
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Guest Post: Anywhere There’s an Airport
One carry on suitcase changed my life!
I planned a trip – packed a bag – boarded a plane – fell in love – and moved across the big blue ocean!
Hello PBF readers!
My name is Kristen and I write Anywhere There’s An Airport!
I write about the ins and outs and ups and downs of moving abroad, moving in with my boyfriend, and merging our 2 cultures.
Spaniard + American = Love [most days!]
You can read the full story of how I met the Spaniard here, or check out the picture book version here.
I have been blessed beyond measure and pinch myself daily!
But it’s not all sunshine, roses and tapas. I write very candidly about the depths of homesick despair that I sometimes stumble into, but I wouldn’t have my life any other way.
Don’t let this photo fool you, I am NOT the country girl! But when in Spain, right!?
Besides the fact that I hate the Spanish dinner time – 10 PM! I LOVE European travel!
And European food finds!
This Florida girl has fallen madly in love with freshly roasted chestnuts!
But traveling in Europe means one thing – ONE bag!
There is no such thing as one “carry on” and one “personal item.” One is one. They watch you consolidate your purse into your suitcase… and then watch as you shove it into the metal bin to make sure it’s regulation size. They don’t mess around.
A sigh of relief escapes every time my bag fits.
I like to think I have become a pro at packing. I was honored when Julie asked me to write a little bit about what I like to think of as carry on fashion!
Just because you can only have one bag doesn’t mean you want to let personal style go by the wayside.
Rome and Paris are spectacular! I was determined to look the part!
How to: Carry On Fashion
1) Proper suitcase
I bought this LL Bean bag a few years ago when I had a gift card and had no idea what else to buy. I was living in Florida and really had no need for fleece lined anything.
Best suitcase of my life!
There are multiple pockets for organization and has a soft top. Perfect for smashing all purchases that you didn’t save room for. This bag works for me. Find a bag that works for you.
2) Roll it – Don’t fold it!
Rolling your clothes can save on wrinkles and definitely saves on space. A LOT of space! I didn’t believe it until I tried it, and I now even roll the clothes in my dresser drawers.
3) Streamline
Streamline anything you can. Every little bit of space counts.
You don’t need every hair product in the bathroom and you don’t need all 10, or even 5 eyeshadows in your make-up bag.
I generally wear the same make-up day in and day out. ONLY pack that. Maybe an extra shadow, or lipstick for fancy dinner purposes but I’ll bet you a 2 Euro glass of Spanish wine (because all wine is that cheap here!) that you don’t need more than that.
Streamline Jewelry. I often want to pack my entire jewelry box. “What if I need these earring?” Think of the pieces that you usually reach for, your favorites. Bring what you love but not everything you “maybe, just in case” might want to wear.
4) Layers
On my first trip to Spain I had no idea what to pack! It was April. It went from hot to cold, and rain to shine through my 10 days here. Packing options doesn’t mean packing everything.
Example: Spring Time Layers
Jeans and a tank:
Plus sweater:
Plus scarf:
Details:
A la Julie:
- Tank: JCrew Outlet
- Jeans: AG via Anthropologie – on sale! [the only way]
- Rose Appliqué Sweater: Banana Republic
- Scarf: Anthropologie – Moving gift from mom. She has a matching one. Awww! 🙂
- Belt: JCrew Outlet
- Necklace: JCrew Outlet
- Shoes: Rainbows – random surf store – circa 2005 – perfectly molded to my feet 🙂
- Bag: Longchamp via Longchamp in Paris – so much cheaper – worth the flight right?
- Purple Aviators: Urban Outfitters
This outfit can transition from day to evening and from a 78° F to 63° F. [For my Celsius friends that’s 26° to 17° C]
Changing the shoes obviously.
Winter Time Layering is very similar… you just shove the cute outfit under a down puffy coat.
A Roman Outing:
Tank, turtle neck, sweater, leggings, scarf, 2 pairs of socks, rain boots… all covered up.
Throwing coins in the Fontana di Trevi!
Here’s the toughie!
5) Shoes!
As ladies we love shoes! I was a constant over-shoe packer. And I am still working on this!
Don’t pack these!
I have never once worn the heels that I so desperately thought I needed.
In the winter I find it easier. Boots. One pair – black or brown and work your outfits around that pair. Wearing them on the plane saves SO much space.
But what about the summer? All the flats and sandals add up and create A LOT of weight. Choose wisely. Pack for fashion, but also comfort. We all want to look cute at the Louvre, but if we are hobbling around on blister covered feet it really doesn’t matter. Limping negates fashion.
Now, when I say comfort I do not mean running shoes.
Speaking of… let’s talk workouts. That biz takes up a lot of space! I used to be the girl that packed enough workout gear for a week, making it to the hotel gym before everyone else’s wake up call.
Spain has definitely relaxed me. I no longer feel the need to get in that sweat session. Exploring a city on foot is a much better workout. You will be walking far more miles that you ran on that treadmill anyway.
However, I do love Bikram Yoga. I’ve been practicing for 4 years and think it’s fascinating to practice in different languages.
I’ve walked the Vatican for Italian, rose early for French, and my new hometown is Spanish. If you know Bikram you know you can wear next to nothing! These clothes take up virtually no space.
Other suggestions:
Re-wear: Call me dirty, but I don’t wash my jeans after every wear. They take up a good chunk of space and can create many an outfit.
Umbrella: Yes, it rains in Spain and most European countries. I have never regretted packing my umbrella, but getting caught without it, no bueno!
Ear Plugs: When your hotel room is right next to the weekend band festival in Barcelona you will thank me!
Longchamp bag: LOVE! Worth every penny! The bag is as light as a feather. The only weight is what you put in it. Plus it folds up for storage in that ONE carry on.
Converters: Depending on whether you are traveling outside your home country you don’t want to be unable to charge your computer, cell, or ipad. i.e. connection with the outside world.
Living abroad has made me exponentially more grateful for technology!
There you have it! Just a little bit of what I’ve learned through overpacked, backbreaking luggage.
If you have any questions regarding travel, moving abroad, or need a perfect Roman pizza recommendation, I would love to help!
Please stop by Anywhere There’s An Airport anytime!
After all, life is just too short, and flies by too fast not to take a stroll down the Champs Elysees.
Thank you Julie for this wonderful opportunity! May you soon be soaking in the European world that I now call home!
Questions from Kristen:
- Have you ever arrived at your destination, only to realize you forgot something crucial?
- Are you rigid or relaxed when it comes to vacation workouts?
- How many times do you wear your jeans before washing?
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What a GREAT post!!! I am a terrible overpacker!!! But I am working on it. I am going to London for 10 days this fall and these tips are going to be GREAT!
I LOVED this post! I can’t wait to check out Kristen’s blog… what an amazing experience to be living abroad! All of your tips were great also! I love my Longchamp bag & take it absolutely everywhere!
My most-forgotten item is 1. contact slution 2. pills. Both pretty crucial…. luckily you can buy the contact solution anywhere. The pills, not good to forget. And I wear my jeans quite a lot before washing. 😉
Loved this guest post!!!!!! So incredible how much she’s traveled! 😀
Awesome guest post. One of the cutest stories I have read! Falling in love in a foreign country..and then moving your life to continue that love. It will sure be a great story to share forever!
I dont like to wash my jeans too often. I only wear them a couple hours at time. I guess i was them when they start to feel too big! Always turn them inside out so they fade as little as possible.. and love the woolite!
Great tips! I love this! I’m not going to Europe, but I am traveling to Seattle this weekend and was worried about what to pack. No more! Thank you so much!
I don’t usually forget things (I am a chronic list-maker!), so that’s a plus. I try to MOVE on my vacations rather than workout. As long as I’ve walked or stretched at some point during the day, I feel good. As for jeans, unless there is visible dirt, I’ll let them go quite a while! 😉
I love this post! Travel is one of my favorite topics 🙂
On my first trip to Europe, I realized in the airport (the European airport of course) that I had lost my wallet (in the American airport of course). Luckily I had my passport, so I was at least admitted to the country, and luckily my wallet had been found and RETURNED with everything in it to a desk at the American airport, but it made for an uncomfortable few days!
I was brought up to remember 3 things – PMT. Passport, money, tickets. So long as you have those three things, the clothes on your back and (ideally) a toothbrush, you *will* be okay. And hey, a toothbrush will only cost a dollar or two anyway!
I LOVED this post! I am so bad at packing–I always bring too much stuff and usually don’t end up wearing/using half of it! This was super helpful!
I LOVED this post. It has me aching to go back to Rome and anywhere in Europe. Can’t wait to read more from your blog and see where you’ve traveled.
I’m a serious over packer when I travel. For example, when my friend Annie and I went on a 3 week backpacking excursion to Europe in 2009, my huge backpack weighed about 25 lbs and I had way too many options available in clothing/shoes whereas Annie packed about 17 lbs worth and used so much of her stuff again and again. My bag felt so heavy by the end of the trip. Such a fun trip though.
Love this!!! I just went all over Europe with one back pack and that’s the only way to go! Such great advice! 🙂
Brilliant tips, and totally doable as well! I always travel in boots, especially in the UK (even mid summer) you will never regret having them to hand…
Mind, I can ONLY pack light if I don’t put it off until it is too late. So that is the only tip I can add, plan ahead and pack early. (Of course I am sure most people are much better at not procrastinating packing than I am, case in point I packed the night before when I moved from Norway to England for the forseable future, don’t do that…)
Hi Mari!
Such a good point on the boots! On my first trip to Spain I didn’t pack any! (A Florida girl doesn’t have many) and boots were purchased within my first 12 hours of being in Madrid. Problem solved. 🙂
Awesome post! Going to check out her blog now. Thanks for sharing. 🙂
You rock Kristen, what a fabulous post and I can’t wait to check out your blog!!
I would say I often forget a hairbrush. I always keep a travel one in my purse, but the big one I always skim over!! That and my glasses (for when the contacts come out!). I would say I only wash my jeans whenever they a) become too loose or b) have been worn 2-3 times!
Absolutely amazing guest post!!! I’ve been struggling with the idea on what to pack on my 17 day honeymoon to Italy and Sicily. I can’t take multiple bags! Plus, I love finding new blogs! Especially since my fiancé and I are looking to move to Europe in the next year or 2!
Thanks Julie and Kristen!
Those are some really great tips! Love them.
I do not wash my jeans after every wear—maybe like after 3 or 4 times…lol!
I love your pictures. I was in Spain for about 5 days a while back and I did not enjoy it, not one bit. My friend is making me give it another go this November when we stop there–I’m really hoping it works out for me this time. 🙂
Hi Jihane!
I hope Spain work out better for you with this trip! Trust me, some days I am right there with you! 🙂 If you need any advice or help, let me know!
This was an AWESOME post! I wash my jeans after 5-7 wears….yepp-they ain’t dirty, so don’t wash em’! (this is varied, however, if I spill something on them). I LOVE traveling so I adored this post. Great tips.
I’d also say to wear your jacket/overcoat ON the plane-saves so much space. And you only need 1 purse or bag for a bring a long for day trips.
I am more relaxed with exercise on vacay, but I try and squeeze in some more non-convential ways–runs by the rivers, hikes through the alps, and swimming in the lakes. Perfection 🙂
Wearing the coat is a MUST! Great point! 🙂
absolutely love this guest post!
What a great guest post!!!! I’m a jean wearer for sure!!! I’ll usually wear them about 7 times I think – or until they get way too stretchy (as very-worn jeans do). At that point, it’s time for the washing machine!
This was such a GREAT post Kristen! I can’t wait to visit your blog too! It really makes me want to go to Europe again!
And I also wash my jeans after about 6-7 wears! They last so much longer 🙂
Kristen–awesome, awesome post. I studied abroad for a semester in Sevilla and always regret that I don’t have the guts to pack up and move there 🙂 Too many things holding me back here–mainly my boyfriend and my family–but I hope to return someday, and soon. In the meantime, I will live vicariously through you and your blog 🙂
Un fuerte abrazo!
Un fuerte abrazo a ti! 🙂
Kristin – great post!!!
I always forget things when I travel — usually something important like my glasses or my contacts case or my contact lens solution! Eek!
I tend to blow off my workouts when I travel, but we tend to walk everywhere, so that helps.
I wear my jeans 2-3 times between washing them.
Question: On many health/fitness blogs, I see people (and you!) posting about almond milk. Why do you choose this drink vs. cow’s milk? I know that almond milk can have fewer calories, but I think it has few grams of protein, as well. What gives?
What a great post 🙂 Makes me sad that my boy will be in France and Spain while I’ll be at a wedding in New Jersey…..
Julie, I wondered if you wear Longchamps… in law school they were my go-to and I have them in all different sizes and colors! They were big and sturdy enough to carry my laptop and textbook, but still professional and “nice” enough to wear to work after class. Win/win!! (I still carry them to work.. they can hold my [Longchamp] wallet, makeup bag, Kindle, change of shoes and lunch).
Loved this post! Such helpful tips.. can’t wait to check out your blog, Kristin! BTW, I’m a ‘dirty’ girl too.. jeans go a few wears between washing!
Loved this guest post!! Cannot tell you how much I relate with the re-wearing of jeans… the more expensive they are (sticker price because I buy ALL my jeans on sale) the less they need washed.. washing less saves the fabric.. makes the jeans last longer.. and saves the environment!
I wash my jeans only when necessary.. as in I dropped a plate of spaghetti down the front of them.. I hang them up after wearing them and the wrinkles fall right out.. I highly recommend rewearing jeans!
On a related note- buy designer jeans- you will not regret it! I have 10 pairs of Express jeans which NEVER get worn.. but my sole pair of Hudson’s never see the back of my closet! Try on lots of pairs…. look for a sale.. and splurge on hemming so you do not ruin the cuff!
Fantastic post!
I never wash my jeans after only one wear!
Oh MAN, I had forgotten how cheap wine is in Europe. Please reserve another Spaniard for me, I’ll be right over.
Reserved. 🙂 Wine is cheaper than water!
I feel like I forget something every time I travel. Usually it’s just little things, like a toothbrush or hairspray, that are easily replaceable. I forgot my (prescription) allergy medicine on one vacation though, and that was not fun. These are great tips; hopefully I will get to travel abroad one day and use them!
What great information! I really never my heels that I always have to pack when traveling! I sometimes wear my jeans 7 times without washing them, but it depends on where, how long and if they have spills on them. They are always more comfy after several wears. I have forgotten things sadly, when we use to mtn bike race all over the country we would drive from race to race and be gone weeks at a time. Once, after driving 3000 miles I realized I forgot my helmet…luckily they are an easy buy! My hubby and I like to get our exercise while traveling, but it usually involves a run or bike ride around a town.
Question #1: Once upon a time my family took an epic three-week road trip. On the first night, I took my contacts out and promptly realized I forgot…my glasses >.< No good. I also once left my entire purse at college when I came home for the weekend–no money, no wallet, no driver's license, nothing. Thankfully I had my old license so I could get to my job at home that weekend, but man. Never forgot that again!
Question #3: I wear my jeans until they're visibly dirty. Why? Well, why not? I'm still wearing pairs I bought four or five years ago. Honestly, I think washing clothes that aren't visibly dirty and/or noticeably smelly is just a really quick and easy way to ruin your clothes. Lots of basics + limited washing = a whole lotta money saved on new clothes buying.
Totally agree that washing is what wears clothes out!
this is an AWESOME post. i’m the worst packer, EVER! i over pack, i don’t roll, it’s just a big ol’ mess up in my suitcase.
it wasn’t me, but my parents went on a trip and forgot my dad’s medication, i had to fedex overnight mail it to them.
and i definitely rewear jeans before washing!!!
This is such a great post! It really makes me excited to travel in the future 🙂 I wear my jeans wayyyy more than once before I wash them. I’d say 4-5 times.. maybe more? I don’t really count. I wash until dirty or too stretched out! =P
man, great post. but i would also say only take the jewelry you’re going to wear. less to lose, less to carry. you can always buy a fun piece or two when you’re there!
LOVE. This post!!! So happy to discover Kristen (Julie always finds good stuff 🙂 ). Even though you’re blocked at work, I’m excited to check out your site at home. I’m a desperate world traveller–I’ve been many places and look forward to saving pennies to add to the list.
When I went to Australia, I got to the airport and realized I had forgotten my passport (a 45 minute drive home) which means I missed my first flight. Then arrived in Australia, to discover they lost my bag. The first five days I was borrowing everything (and I mean everything) from my grandma. I’ve only done carry-on ever since, lol!
Oh my goodness!!! Exactly why I never check a bag unless absolutely necessary! But I suppose there are worse places to be panty-less than Australia 🙂
Awesome guest post!
I forgot my wallet when I went to DC for a job interview… not good.
I only ever pack one pair of jeans for trips, and I’m def with you all the layers!!
Great post! My parents are going to France and Italy this month and my mom is already thinking about how to make the most of the shoes and clothes she packs. I’m going to pass this along to her 🙂
1. I ALWAYS forget at least one thing when I travel, even if it’s only going to my parents’ house for the weekend. LOL. I don’t know why I can’t seem to pack in an organized fashion
2. I am super relaxed about workouts on vacation. It’s called vacation for a reason. LOL
3. I wear my jeans at least three times, probably more, before I wash them. Nut then again, I can’t wear jeans to work and I work a lot. So my jeans rarely get worn twice in a row anyway
What a fantastic guest post, and what great information!
I am going to try and apply this information to my domestic trips 🙂 I am a horrible over-packer, and seem to forget essential items in the process of overloading my suitcase with extra tops, shoes, etc.!
I loved this post!!! I’ll definitely be heading over to your blog, Kristen!
I once visited family in Europe and forgot socks! Luckily, my grandma lent me some. I’m relaxed when it comes to working out on vacation. Generally, I get an awesome workout from just exploring, walking, hiking, and whatever else I do on vacation. I love seeing/exploring new places on foot. I generally wear my jeans about 3-5 times before washing. 🙂
Great guest post!!!!
Julie, where do you buy the carba nada pasta??? I have searched everywhere and can not find it!! Please let me know.
Thanks!!!
netrition.com
My most forgotten items are my toothbrush and my razor! Ugh! It is one or the other every time I swear! lol. I usually wear my jeans three times before washing, unless they are visibly dirty of course!
Awesome post! I so want to visit Europe. At this point, I would head over with just a toothbrush 😉
Might I also suggest conditioner! The hotels in Europe never have hair conditioner! 🙂
Haha! I have to say that I’ve never ever arrived at a destination forgetting something crucial… I always carry tooo many things… And I rarely use half of what I am bringing! 😉 However, dress do not take much space… About shoes, I always bring 3 pairs : some type of Puma shoes that are super convenient cause they can also work as running shoes but looks more stylish (just in case… if ever you REALLY decide to exercice) along with flip flop and a pair of mid-heels sandals that will work out for a fancy dinner but without the blisters. Personally, I do exercice only when I go in all inclusive vacations, you know the type you only eat, drink and lie by the beach…. Everywhere else, there is so much to discover and really, I agree, walking is a way better exercice! 🙂
Thanks for the wonderful wonderful tips! We are headed to Europe this fall for our honeymoon and this will definitely be useful!
Congratulations on your up-coming wedding! I am sure Europe will treat you well! 🙂
BEST guest post ever!!! This was totally helpful and you are gorgeous! I’ll definitely be adding your blog to my favorites 🙂
Thank you Jenn! You totally made me blush! 🙂
Such a great post, Kristen! I am so glad you mentioned Longchamps! I have been contemplating ordering a large one all week (it would be my everyday bag….I tend to carry a nicer leather tote in the fall/winter and a more casual bag in the warmer months).
I am not much of a traveler, but I am planning a trip to NY in the fall with a friend, so these tips will definitely come in handy. Especially since I am only planning on taking one carryon bag. Thanks!
Order the Longchamp! You will not regret it. I debated on buying another, larger bag when I was in Paris. SO happy I did! I have used it every.single.day.since!!!
Loved this!!! I always pack for comfort and look like a tragedy when I’m traveling.
Awesome guest post! Rolling clothes always saves me room, and I love Kristen’s idea about bringing minimal workout clothes. I would love to travel around Europe for a few months after graduation – I have a bunch of friends living there, so I would have tour guides + places to stay. It’s kinda my dream!
Do it!
I wouldn’t be here if I hadn’t fallen in love. But it’s such an amazing experience. If you can do it – do it! 🙂
I wear my jeans several times before washing them. I actually read that it’s better to wear them at least 4 or 5 times before washing them. It helps them last longer.
Love this post! I totally relate to all the tips she gave because even though I’m originally from TX, I grew up in Norway, Russia, and Indonesia!! Kristen is so right about not bringing too many workout clothes and not being strict when you’re traveling. I also heart bikram yoga, and I hadn’t thought about how neat it would be to take it in a different language! Great post! 🙂
Love this! Thank you so much. I am going to Europe for 5 weeks this and going from city to city… This really helps!
this summer*