good things to bring that you never thought of

[snorkelman]

Some wire is useful when you are at a hostel that requires you to push and hold a button for water to come out of the shower.  It sucks taking a shower with one hand and I have often used my wire to wrap around the knob and keep the water flowing.

Generally a sweatshirt can double as a pillow if needed, and unless you are in Europe after October, you should be warm enough with just a sweater and a weather breaker/light jacket

Some people buy electricity converters – this is a waste of space, weight and money.  What the heck will you possibly bring with you that needs to be plugged in?  A walkman?  A camera?  These two things work on batteries, which can be discarded when dead.  Electric razors are much bigger and heavier than the other kind.  If you HAVE to bring an iron or hairdryer, then realize that you are packing unnecessary weight.  


Bring some multi-vitamins if possible because you will not be eating as well as you should.  Keep any vitamins and/or prescription pills in their original containers and you will be ok with customs.  If you plan on being adventurous and eating vendor food, bring some anti-diarrhea stuff from home.  If you wear contacts, make sure to bring an extra pair of contacts and pair of glasses.


bring some zip-lock bags (sandwich-size and large ones for wet swimsuits).  I suggest bringing a small fork, spoon, and knife set

[Kim]

Never thought of the wire-that's a great idea, I do hate those button showers. Next trip, the wire is in.

One of the things I bring is my own pillowcase. The blankets are fine but I like to know I can lay my head somewhere clean. (This after I got pink eye from a dirty pillowcase while hostelling in California) That way you can wash it as much as you want.

Also, make sure if you are travelling with medication to bring a note from your doctor. Each country has different rules on medication-for example codeine in Greece is illegal. (I did bring it in with a doctors note because I suffer from hellish migranes) Do so at your own risk however.

A deck of cards will help pass the time on those long train rides and can be an easy opener when you want to meet people.

Kim

[Cat]

I am an addicted reader, and I always bring pocketsized books with me. When I'm finished, I just leave them at the hostel. They usually have a shelf for that purpose. Then I can take another book from that shelf to read and everyone is happy.