So I decided that I would try to do away with the procrastinator in me and pack the majority of my things this weekend. I find that I am entirely overwhelmed when it comes to attempting to pack my life into 2 suitcases that may not go over 50 lbs. I am trying so hard not to over-pack, but it’s just not in my nature! I am also the type of person that goes through every single possible scenario, which is what leads to my over-packing.
I wrote the principal of my school asking her about the dress code that I am to abide by while I’m there. Once I get a response from her, that should help with my packing a bit. I also tried reading some other blogger’s posts regarding packing, but everyone has different advice! Some say to pack a winter coat from home and others say not to bother because you can just buy one in Spain. Some say to bring you winter clothes with you, while others say to try and have your family send you your winter clothes to save suitcase space. Others say to bring your good shoes while others say you can find great shoes in Spain. It would be a lot easier to follow people’s advice if there was somewhat of a consensus!
So, basically, I’m just going to pack as best as I see fit. I’m sure that once I’m in Spain for a few months, I will likely chastise myself for packing so much excess crap…but I guess I’ll just have to learn the hard way. At least packing for my 2nd year shouldn’t be too hard right? Anyone have some packing tips for me??
I feel like Jenna Marbles in her “How Girls Pack a Suitcase” video. She exaggerates a lot in the video, but it’s still pretty much how I feel trying to pack right now. I’ll leave the video here (**warning: Jenna Marbles curses quite a bit, so don’t watch if cursing bothers you**):
Lady in Spain 
Aug 25, 2012 @ 07:38:13
Packing is so hard! I’d suggest taking out half the stuff you think you need, because it’s a huge pain to lug giant suitcases around. I’d take out any clothes you can’t pair with much stuff, anything you have ‘doubles’ of, and high heels (love them, but I never wear them in Spain).
I think it’s better to slightly underpack. Your family can always send you stuff later. Plus, it’s not like you’re going to a country where they don’t have the same stuff – Spain does, promise! Good luck packing!
Aug 27, 2012 @ 18:42:07
So I ended up going through my suitcases again and taking out some things that I felt I didn’t truly need. I only packed 2 pairs of heels, which is basically a miracle since I own about 8 or 9 pairs and I love them all lol And one of the pairs I packed are only about an inch so I could wear them to my school. And my family is definitely going to have to send me a few things because I don’t want to weigh my suitcase down too much.
I find that the hardest part is making sure the luggage isn’t overweight rather than getting everything to fit.
Aug 27, 2012 @ 19:10:29
Haha I feel your pain about the heels – I’m little (only 5’2) and love wearing them, but daily life in Spanish cities involves a LOT of walking, so they’re just not very practical to wear out.
As far as weighing goes…urgh, I dunno. If you have anything like hair straighteners/blow dryers/etc. that weighs a lot, maybe take those out? Mine all exploded because of converters, and they’re not so expensive to buy. Stick books in your carry-on because those are heavy too.
When do you leave for Spain? So exciting!
Aug 27, 2012 @ 19:23:05
I’m little too haha! I’m only 4’11, which is why I love heels. I’m not bringing my absolute favorite pair because I have a feeling I won’t wear them/have a reason to wear them in Spain.
And I’m not brining my blow dryer since it’s huge and heavy, but I am bringing my flatiron since it’s dual voltage and fits in my carry-on.
I actually invested in a kindle at the beginning of the summer because I knew if I didn’t, I would be too tempted to pack way too many books.
I leave for Spain this Friday! It’s a redeye flight, so I’ll be arriving there Saturday morning.
Aug 25, 2012 @ 12:21:15
Ah yes, the joys of packing. I’m having the exact opposite problem. After 2 years in Spain, I have to pack up to go BACK to the USA and there are many things I need to leave behind/get rid of. I’m even shipping some stuff in boxes I have so much stuff!
I remember packing and wondering what I would need and wouldn’t need… small things like scarves, gloves, hats, socks, and the like… all that you can buy in Spain. They do have clothing stores here, it’s not a third world country! If there are any lotions/hair products/make up you are fond of, Spain may not carry certain brands so I advise you to bring those along.
I would bring the winter coat–yes it takes up a lot of room and yes, you can buy one in Spain but clothing is much more expensive in Europe, remember that! You are also going to be in Madrid. Contrary to popular belief, it DOES get cold in Madrid. The city is surrounded by a mountain chain and you are going to be teaching in Majadahonda correct? It does snow there, just a warning! (But rarely does in Madrid itself)
Good luck packing!
Aug 25, 2012 @ 12:53:55
I know that I can get certain things in Spain, it’s just more a matter of trying to decide what things I want to purchase there and what things I want to leave behind here.
How do you feel about coming back to the States? I cant imagine how I’ll feel coming back to Maryland at the end of the program. Have a safe flight!