Wednesday, May 28, 2014

Travel Tip: What to pack for your Incantato performance tour?

Dear Belcanto Monte Vista HS travelers, family and friends,

Time for another travel tip. As your departure for your Enchanting Europe Tour 2014 gets closer and closer, Incantato Tours would like to provide you with some travel tips to make it easier for you to get ready for your upcoming tour.

Do you know anyone who absolutely loves to pack? Neither do we. We understand that for most people, packing for a vacation is the most difficult part. The solution for many is to just pack as much as you possibly can into your suitcase and backpack, but as a colleague explains it:


"You'll be thanking me later when you don't break your back 
from having to carry everything on your own. Don't do it!" 

Her advice:

"Pack as lightly as you can. The best way to get it all to fit nicely into your suitcase is
 to fold it nicely and then roll it tightly. It can all fit into your bag like a puzzle."

Two favorite ways to pack are the roll-up-squeeze (coiling your clothes for maximum space) and the layer-cake-technique of stacking your clothing items between sheets of tissue to prevent wrinkling.
The video below shows you how to pack like a pro:


Keep in mind, however, that many cathedrals have a dress code and will not allow you to walk in if you are wearing tank tops or shorts. A scarf is a good solution to this code. And shorts should always go to your knees (both for ladies and gents).

Below are a few things that we think are essential to have to be comfortable with what the weather brings and with the weight of your bag. Please remember, airlines allow only one checked bag per person and a small carry-on.

A sample packing list (just a suggestion!):

  • Rain jacket, maybe with fleece insert (it is summer in Europe but it can sometimes get a little bit cold in the evenings)
  • Umbrella just in case it rains
  • An adapter plug and/ or converter (if you are bringing electronic devices, please check if they are compatible, most new devices are)
  • Camera and batteries or charger with adapter
  • At least two pair of jeans or pants, ladies may want to bring a couple skirts or dresses, too
  • A sweater or two (or three, if you tend to feel chilly)
  • Plenty of shirts, including a polo or two and at least two dress shirts (Europeans dress much more formal than Americans)
  • Plenty of undergarments and socks for daily changes
  • A watch, make-up and jewelry if applicable (carry on any valuables at all times)
  • Choir music and attire
  • Don't forget shoes, we recommend a maximum of three pairs (tennis shoes, good everyday shoes, dress shoes). Bring nice concert shoes, but make sure that you will be able to walk long distances in them. Europeans do not wear flip flops other than to the pool or at the beach.
  • Put all liquids that are in your carry-on into a zip-lock bag. And remember the 311 rules by TSA | Transportation Security Administration
  • All scissors, fingernail clippers etc. are better packed in your check-in luggage along with liquids over 3 ounces. Bring enough contact lens solution and prescription medication that you may need for the whole duration of the trip.

If you forget anything, do not worry, there are plenty of shops where you can by shampoo, toothpaste, etc.

Enjoy your packing and we are looking forward to start the tour with you.

Your Incantato Tours Team

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