IMPORTANT: Travelers are advised to pack light. Less items means lighter luggage and less time to pack as we pack and go to the next hotel.
TIP: Pack items you would not mind leaving behind to donate to a shelter. This would allow space in your luggage for purchases.
1. Main Luggage: Select luggage that is strong, but lightweight, versatile and large enough to hold all essentials. Four-wheels luggage is convenient, especially traveling to places with paved roads and sidewalks. Travel Backpacks means hands-free mobility and ultimate versatility. Carry-Ons saves baggage fees, wait time, and the possibility of loss luggage.
2. Organize Travel: Pack comfortable clothing that may be worn on daily adventures and accessories to perk/dress-up outfits. Evening wear is not required. Consider compression bags to reduce the volume of clothing. This is especially convenient for bulky items such as sweaters and jackets.
The Basics:
- Dress/skirt/pants
- Long-sleeved shirts
- Scarfs/sweaters/jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Raincoat/windbreaker
3. Carry-on Bag: Pack small items you may want to use on the plane. If possible, let the quantity of these items serve for the duration of the trip to reduce weight of luggage. See the link for TSA’s 3-1-1 rules and other convenient links at the bottom of this page.
The Basics:
- Moisturizers/Lotions
- Lip balm/lipstick
- Brush/comb/ties
- Toothbrush/toothpaste/floss
- Prescription glasses
- Head-phones
- Book/Journal/pen
- Mobile devices/chargers
- Camera/chargers
- Pillow/blanket
- Medical Prescriptions
4. Travel Documents/Cash/Credit Cards: Copy and email travel documents to your email address. Keep originals with you, pack copies in the event of loss. It is important to inform credit card companies of international travel. When fraud is suspected, for your protection, credit cards may be blocked.
The Basics:
- Cash
- Passport
- Credit Card (s)
- Emergency Contacts
- Health Insurance card
- Travel Insurance Card
- Loyalty Program Card
5. Travel Security: Pick-pocketing is a profession in some European cities. The easiest way to keep belongings safe is to keep them hidden on your person. When travelling on public transportation, put your hand on the zipper/snap/pocket where your valuables are stored. If you must step away from your luggage, always seek permission from a fellow traveler. When permission is granted, give the fellow traveler the handle of your luggage. We will address this again.
The Basics:
- Cross-body/Long-length shoulder bag
- Hidden pockets
- Zippers/snaps face body
6. Foreign Currency: If possible, place orders for currencies at your local bank. In Europe, avoid stand-alone and store front kiosks; the typical rate of exchange is higher than in banks. Prior to travel, become familiar with the exchange rates. Have merchants charge your credit card in the currency of the country. When charged in U.S. dollars, the exchange rate is often higher and the merchant may add additional fees. Check around, some credit card companies do not charge foreign exchange fees.
Euro accepted in each destination during the WE Tour 2:
- Amsterdam
- Belgium
- Dieppe
- Paris
7. The Tipping Culture: Tipping customs in Europe are different in each country. In general, the tip is already included in your bill. If you want to include a little extra, that’s fine.
8. Dining on Outdoor Terraces: To cozy up in a chair on a sidewalk café and people watch is a national sport in Europe and a wonderful way to spend some time.
9. Hotel Breakfast: Many hotels include a great buffet free breakfast —Some can be good to fabulous with eggs, omelets, ham, cheese, salami, tea, coffee, various juices, fruits, and pastry.
10. Best Deals and Businesses to Visit: Many hotels organize pub-crawls. Ask people working in hotels for their favorite bars, pubs, and cafés and where they go after work.
11. Grocery Stores and Delicatessens: Nearly every store sells a wide selection of fruits, vegetables, bread, prepared meals, wine, and beer.
12. Group Meals: If/when available, we will make reservations at restaurants that can accommodate a large group in order to have one or two meals together.
