Christmas Wish List for Travelers

Christmas is upon us. Since Thanksgiving is not celebrated in the UK, Christmas markets, Christmas spirit, and Christmas shopping are all in full swings ever since Halloween came to a close. If you are approaching a term abroad, or even a trip abroad, I've compiled a list of useful items that would make perfect Christmas gifts if you are coming up with a blank wish list.

1. Polaroid Camera (and film)

"Collect memories not things."

Polaroids are the perfect personal souvenir for every adventure. Let's be honest, none of us have the time or patience to print out photos anymore. Well these are the perfect little reminder of all of the rad sights and people who were there with you. They also make for a very fun display in your room to make it seem more homey.

2. Canon Camera

This is a bigger purchase, and one that I bought myself. I got a job for the sole purpose of buying a Canon camera (and gave Blood Plasma. I have the scar to prove it.) I researched for a very long time, asked advice from fellow photographers, and finally made the decision on which camera to purchase. I waited until the perfect opportunity and bought it when it became on sale. A really good time to buy any of these gifts/electronics is, you guessed it, Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Also be aware of sales after Christmas.

3. GoPro

This was a birthday present from my fiance. It has documented his proposal, family vacations, my sister's wedding ceremony, and all of my Europe trips I've made. A video just tells an even more in depth story than a picture can do. It has been one of my favorite gifts I've ever received, and is a great way to share your experience with loved ones back home. I have actually found a hobby in this. For my International Experiences Scholarship through Iowa State, I chose making a video to be my scholarship project. (Check out my video tab to access my videos).

4. Sandisk iXpand flashdrive

"Cannot take photo, there is no more room on your iPhone" is the dreaded popup we wall recieve on our phones. Well, it is even worse when you are in front of a beautiful building in Europe. Lucas bought me this before I left for Europe, and it is a life saver! You insert it into your phone, can take photos and videos that are saved onto the flashdrive instead of on your phone's memory, and then you can plug in the usb end into your laptop to download them. You can also download them onto your phone through the easy to use app.

5. Wellies

If you travel in the UK, some rain booties are a must. Good thing they are in fashion right now. I wear these shoes the most by far, because of their waterproof qualities and the fact that they match with everything.

6. Water and windproof coat

While here in England, I bought a coat from Mountain Warehouse (their equivalent of a Scheels or Sports Authority). Man am I glad I did. It keeps me warm while also keeping me dry, and is not bulky and huge. When taking photos, this is honestly the thing you notice the most so make sure you like how it looks. I got one that doesn't make me look like a marshmallow. Honestly, backpacking trip, we never cared what we wore because it never showed from underneath of our coats. It makes picking out outfits super easy!

6. Good socks and shoe insoles

You do a lot of walking while traveling. In fact during one day in Paris, we walked over 15 miles. Be sure your shoes are of good quality and won't give you blisters, arch problems, etc. Good thick wool socks and insoles from a good shoe store definitely helped me.

7. Money

Cliche but true. Everything costs money (super obvious but true), and if you have some cushion room for your budget is welcomed.

8. A nice backpack

I borrowed a nice North Face backpack meant for being a full blown backpacker (shout out to Kyndal!!!!). I used this for all weekend trips, long hikes, and for my carry on all plane rides. I don't know how I would have traveled with out it. I could fit enough belongings in it for 12 days of adventures!

Things to stock up on if you can't live without these across the pond (could be good stocking stuffers):

1. Stick deodorant

We have found mostly spray deodorant or gel deodorant. This was especially apparent in smaller convenience stores. If you get to a larger pharmacy, like a Boots, you might be lucky to find solid stick deodorant. It has been a real debacle for us.

2. Kraft macaroni and cheese

If you cannot go a week without this cheesey goodness consider packing it in your suitcase. This is a tip I wish I would have known. I am having withdraws. (Shoutout to my mom for the two boxes she sent me.)

3. Coffee makers (only use hot water kettle)

Obviously you're not going to pack your keurig with you (I won't judge you if you do.) The custom in the UK is hot water kettles because tea is such an important part of your day. No it is not just a hot beverage, it is a scheduled event for every day. Instant coffee is how the common Brit gets their cup of Joe in the morning. For coffee snobs like ourselves, this has been difficult. Not all cafes sell to go coffee, and if they do they don't have many options or flavors. These are also very expensive and will rack up a large bill depending on your dependance on caffeine. I would recommend getting a Starbucks Gift Card from your most generous family members, or possibly teaming up with other roommates/flatmates and pitching in for a coffee maker. I live alone so I haven't had this option.

4. Crystal light caffeine packets

These were how I functioned back home. I literally had a jar with chalk written "starter fluid" on it with my caffeine packets for my water bottle. Well these are nowhere to be found in England. Really missing my dragonfruit Great Value caffeine water </3

5. Travel size items

These are imperative if making international trips while in Europe. Airlines require liquids to be 100 ml or less and to fit in a plastic baggie. We found these items very hard to find while in Europe. We bought these in Iowa and then just keep refilling them with our large shampoo conditioner and body wash that we bought when we arrived.

7. An outlet converter

Okay these can be found in airports and bigger stores, but cannot be found in the small cafes and markets that will probably be close to your accommodation. I highly recommend getting an adapter and converter that is suitable for multiple places (Barcelona and London have different outlets.) Also if it has multiple plug ins on it that is a major plus. I borrowed one from my best friend that has a usb outlet, a 200 volt plug in, and 100 volt plug in. It can also switch for different countries with the attachments. It is the bees knees and so is she.

I hope my compiled list made things easier for you and Sinterklaas.

Currently, my wish list is to see my family and spend the holidays together. That's literally all I can think of that I want. In fact, the countdown is already down to 4 days until I see Lucas!!!! I literally couldn't sleep for 3 nights in a row for longer than two hours because I am just so excited to see him and return to life back home in the states with my family and friends. Plus I love the Christmas season and yuletide here in the U.K.

xoxo,

Leah Joy