Tips for Traveling Abroad

I realize I've not posted much over the past few months. Its been so crazy! Every time I have something awesome to share I get distracted, puked on, or fall asleep. That is life with kids! Anyway, Ive been wanting to share a little bit about some of the things I've learned traveling abroad. Hopefully you will find these helpful. Whether you are traveling for missions or pleasure, this tips are for you!

•  Minors traveling without a parent will need a written and signed document stating who is their guardian during the trip and contact information. Don't ask me how I know this, I just do. :-)
• Don't bring anything you will be heartbroken if it goes MIA. This one was hardest for me. I hated leaving my engagement ring when I did my 3 month long internship in South Africa.
• Bring a basic medicine kit. Tums, Tylenol, ibuprofen, allergy, etc.
• While your at it, bring band-aids.
• Only bring broken in, comfortable shoes. I've broken this rule many times, it was bad.
• Take a chew-able or pill form pepto-bismol every morning while on the trip. It reduces stomach irritation from water and unusual and new foods.
• Try as much as you can! Food, culture, play, take advantage of the great blessing of seeing the world.
• Pack a small bottle of shampoo, deodorant, and extra underwear in your carry on. If they lose you luggage you'll be happy you did. It is also great for freshing up when you have long flights and layovers.
• Ask to keep the soda can in flight. They will give you a third of the can in a cup if your lucky, just ask.
• When buying souvenirs, see if the country has something equivalent to our dollar stores. Can't get much more affordable and still get cool little things. When I went to Japan they had 100 yen stores. I got chop sticks, fans, and hair accessories! 
• In less built up countries, local markets are the way to go. However it is important to bring someone who speaks the language if you dont. You will surely be taken advantage of.
• Bring home something unique. You'll always have a way to share your story.
• Bring a journal and or a camera. You will surely want to share about your adventures.
• Send postcards. Even if you stay only a week or too. Its so much fun to write and send them. Plus, if you send an extra one to yourself, it will go well in a scrapbook!
• Learn about the countries and what they consider good manners. Ask someone before you go. It will save you embarrassment.
• Have fun!