INFO

Here are a collection of Rick Steves’ episodes and some informaton that got me prepared and excited for our trip. Click to watch!

MyWay

Alpine Europe

in 12 Days Tour

Best of the Alps Special

Munich and the Foothills of the Alps

Salzburg and Surroundings

Dolomites, Italy: Tirolean Culture and Alpine Adventures

Swiss Alps

French Alps and Lyon

Pre-Travel Tips

Before I went on this trip I scoured the internet looking for tips or just a generic “what to expect”.

  • I am a chronic over-packer and looking back I wish I would have packed a little lighter. In every town there were abundant grocery/drug store options and laundry facilities. It would have saved me some hassle with a smaller suitcase.

  • Do NOT forget your power adapter and converter! Every hotel we stayed at had hairdryers, but I made sure the hair tools I brought were dual voltage - make sure what ever you bring is dual voltage!

  • I read our guidebook cover to cover and tried to watch every youtube video known to man, but honestly, nothing prepares you like being there and experiencing it first hand. Don’t get too caught up in trying to have everything figured out and just try your best to be in the moment.

  • If you’re not a seasoned traveler, its tempting to want to pack as much into your trip as possible - forgetting one important thing, this is YOUR vacation. Plan extra time for rest.

Packing List

As stated, I am a chronic overpacker… but, there are a few things that I wish I brought with me and a few things I wish I left at home.

  • I know people say one of the cardinal sins in Europe is activewear outside of the gym - however, we spent much of our time in the Alps being extremely active! I wish I brought a few more activewear sets. They are so easy to wash and dry and pack up very small.

  • If you’re nervous about over the counter medications not being available, don’t worry! You’re never too far away from a Pharmacy which carries all the usual OTC medications and then some! You don’t need to bring bottles of Tylenol or Advil with you.

  • There is a delicate balance of packing light and still wanting to bring enough to be fashionable. I brought a few pieces of clothing that I never touched.

    If I went back, I would only pack 1 pair of denim and 1 nicer top and sweater. I brought 1 pair of Converse, 1 pair of Brooks running shoes, and a pair of Birkenstock sandals. The perfect lineup for me!

    Another fun thing I noticed was the popularity of New York Yankee hats - as a die hard LA Dodger fan, that was interesting to say the least. Don’t be afraid to bring your favorite ball cap.

  • I brought a small zippered crossbody handbag and it was perfect! It is important in any major city or crowded area to be aware of your belongings - I never felt in danger of being pick-pocketed.

    I would highly recommend bringing a small, day backpack for hiking days. Luckily, I packed a reusable tote bag and used that on the trails and grocery store snack runs!

  • As previously mentioned - do not forget the bring a power adapter! I would also leave the laptop at home and opt for an ipad instead. I would also recommend bring 2 power adapters for the various things you need to charge or plug in - like an apple watch, phone, airpods, and hair tools like a straightener!

  • Before you embark on your journey, Rick Steves’ sends you a tailored guidebook following your tour route - this thing has SO much information that you might read 20 times and it will have no bearing until you’re there needing a laundromat. Do not forget it!