Europe is one of the most preferred destinations among students.

Here some tips to take advantage of this outdoor adventure trip!

• Tell someone where you'll be, and when you expect to return.
• Bring a cell phone.
• Bring the usual safety items (matches, 1st aid, iodine tablets, etc)
• Learn to lighten your load.

What to pack in your back pack

The first things to pack are clothes. Depending on where you are going, you may need clothes for warm weather or cold. Assuming it is warm, you need a couple of shirts that are wrinkle resistant.

You will buy others there, so don’t pack ten. You also will need a pair of shorts and a bathing suit. If you plan on visiting museums and churches, you will need a pair of long pants to get into many of them. Pack something light that is wrinkle resistant.

For your feet, you can load up on socks because they do not take much space. You will need some sandals and then a pair of something comfortable. Some prefer hiking boots, but I usually went with cross trainers. Whatever you do, make sure you get used to the shoes before heading off. You are going to walk a lot, so blisters from new shoes can be a killer.

On the personal front, you need a brush, toothpaste and any medicinal needs. That is it. You can buy anything else you need as you need it. There is zero point to lugging around shampoo all over Europe. Murphy’s law says it will open in your backpack! Keep it super simple.

Safety and Security

One of the most important pieces of gear you can bring along for safety and security is a collection of small combination locks with keys. It is much more likely for a thief to open your backpack and take just a few items while you are talking or making a purchase than for someone to run off with the entire pack. Lock the zippers of each compartment, or at least those containing valuables, to prevent this.

Napping on trains is a great way to get in some much needed rest, but it is also a good time for someone to steal your backpack without you knowing. It is a good idea to use a larger lock to secure your pack to the train’s luggage rack. Most hostels offer rental lockers to protect your valuables at night or while you are out. Make use of these as well. You may need to bring along a small lock for the locker, while some require the rental of a special lock.

Foods to carry

• Nuts.
• Olive oil.
• Corn products.
• Ramen noodles.
• Instant coffee.
• Berries.
• Instant sports drinks.

...and please resist don't go into fast foods! ;-)