Hello lovely readers! I'm currently writing this as I sit on my connecting flight to LA, where I will have a 12 hour layover (keep an eye out for a future post about that). Right now, I am utterly exhausted and stressed, but still excited nonetheless to finally be embarking on my journey to Sydney!
However, despite my excitement, to say my trip has started out rough would be an understatement. So today, I want to talk about some major don'ts for departing on your trip to hopefully help you avoid some of the mishaps I've experienced so far.
1. Don't: wait to pack until the last minute like I did.
It is a way more work than you think, and if you're like me, it will take a while to finish. I never knew true regret until I was up at midnight last night sifting through mountains of unfolded clothes, shoes and open suitcases. Seriously, don't do that to yourself. You don't need that in your life.
Photo: why am I like this -
2. Do: start packing early.
Seriously, it will save you a lot of time, stress, and energy. Start with making a list of what you need or use the one CEA CAPA provides to narrow down what to put in your luggage. Once you have it all written out, blast some pumped up music to help you get motivated and get the task done quickly. Try to avoid taking too many breaks as this will lead you to procrastinate and drag out the whole packing process. Just push through and get it done! Also, be sure to check your airline's policy on baggage before hand so you're not panicking last minute wondering how many suitcases you can bring. If space does end up being an issue, here's a cool tip I learned from dorming at school for the past 3 years: try packing your clothes stacked sideways to fit more in your suitcase! This can also be handy for when you start putting your things away at your student apartment or homestay.
Photo: #justdormthings
3. Don't: keep important things in unreliable places.
For example, don't leave your phone in a loose cardigan pocket. You may end up dropping it outside of your house and not realizing it until you get to the airport. (Yes, this is a real life example experienced by yours truly at 7am this morning) Try to be mindful of your belongings at all times, even if you're tired. Double and triple check everything.
4. Do: secure valuables!
Make sure anything valuable is secure in your carry on bag so you avoid losing things, especially important documents like your passport and ID!
5. Don't : panic and beat yourself up for any mishaps.
As someone once said "This too shall pass." Accidents happen, things don't always go as planned. But life would be pretty boring if it did, wouldn't it?
6. Do: be patient with yourself.
You're only human. It's natural to mess up occasionally. Breathe and go with the flow. There are many solutions for any problems that arise, you just have to stop for a second and think calmly about how to proceed. Don't hesitate to ask for help from the CEA CAPA staff! They are here to help.
7. Don't: let stress ruin your mood!
This is a once in a lifetime experience. Enjoy it! Stress is inevitable, but don't let it bring your mood down. This is supposed to be a fun and exciting time for you.
8. Do: stay positive!
It'll all be worth it once you arrive! When things get tough, remind yourself of all the amazing adventures you will soon be having!