So I am new to this international travel thing. Therefore when I packed my three-piece Ralph Lauren luggage like I was taking a month-long trip to New York City, I was completely misguided. As soon as I arrived, I realized that half the things I packed would be useless in the La Paz environment. I must admit I am a high-maintenance lady – the type who can’t leave the country without my MAC makeup and ALDO patent pumps (both are still in the suitcase). BUT La Paz has taught me to live a little less glamorous and a little more relaxed. Below you will find a list of the things a lady DOESN’T need when traveling abroad.
- Every REAL traveler uses a hiking pack to get around because they are constantly picking up to go. Now they aren’t very stylish but they are VERY efficient. The lady equivalent would be one medium –size suitcase, and leave the Louis V at home.
- Heels of any sort are a stupid choice. It is the rainy season in La Paz so I could have used some rain boots but of course I have two pairs of heels. You are likely to walk everywhere and not every country has the paved roads of America. Therefore you want to get some shoes you don’t mind getting dusty or worn (I chose a comfy pair of sneaks).
- Makeup? Really what was I thinking? I lugged all my beauty products down here only to have them lay in wait for a month in the baggage. The bolivianos don’t care if my hair is done or my eyebrows are plucked, and frankly neither do I.
Ladies I wouldn’t worry so much over the little luxuries that you think you can’t live without when packing for a trip abroad. You will be surprised at the products you can find in a pharmacy overseas, so leave the clutter in your closet! While I was packing multiple poolside cover up options, I should have been packing a towel because summer in Bolivia means nothing but rain.
Heed my advice ladies, pack light and enjoy the freedom of getting a little dirt under your fingernails (at least while no one is looking).
