The Inside Scoop
These are some of the things we learned on our first international adventure and first Rick Steves tour. Before the trip we found the Rick Steves website to be extremely helpful in making our plans. Now that we've been on the tour we can confirm that the information was accurate, well thought out, and something we would use again on our next trip.
01
Travel Books
The large Italy book we used before leaving the states to learn about where we were headed. We found the pocket books about each location easy to travel with and very useful when planning where to eat/visit on our own. Each one has a tear-out map that can be carried in your pocket or bag. Of course we made stops that were not planned based on time, location and impulse. When there's gelato on each corner you have to try them all!
02
Chargers
The outlets in Europe are not the same as the states. Before leaving we ordered wall charges so we would not have to worry about how to charge our cameras (phones) or watches. These were also useful in the airports during layovers.
03
Clothes & Hair
Ashley would run each morning before the group breakfast but only brought 2 running outfits. The travel wash worked great to wash/rinse clothes in the sink and hang to dry. The hotels also had clothes washing services but cost extra depending on the city. Bar shampoo and conditioner was also a win. It does not have to be 3 oz to travel and allows you to not have to rely on small hotel bottles. When you have a lot of hair to wash these are key and easy to try before traveling!
04
Luggage
The Rick Steves convertible carry-on bag worked great for all the necessities. It did not have to be checked in as luggage and was easy to roll around on the streets between cities/hotels. If you do not want to carry anything on your back or have back issues this is perfect. We also used small backpacking packs that made maneuvering the streets/steps easier but puts the load on your back. We never had to walk very far with our luggage but did have to go up/down steps.
