Ten Things You’re Going to Forget to Pack

During the awkward three-day hiatus between fall break and our school trip to Berlin, a rushed cycle of un-packing, clothes washing, and re-packing is necessary for everyone in the program. With this in mind, here are the top ten things you are going to forget to bring to Berlin:

  1. YOUR PASSPORT: It’s the most important thing you can forget. You literally can’t be in Italy without it, let alone leave Italy without it. Yet, the ease at which you can leave it behind is very real.
  2. SECOND PAIR OF SOCKS: Berlin can get pretty cold, that is, colder than Italy at this time of the year. The faculty told us that it’s going to be freezing when we go, but that’s coming from the same people who wear winter jackets in 65 degree weather. Either way, a second pair of socks is never a bad idea.
  3. SCARPA SQUEAL: Are we going to see more works from the infamous Carlo Scarpa? I’m not sure if he had any projects in Berlin, but just in case, make sure to save your voice. You never know when you’re going to see one of his intricate doorways open up and fill you with such architectural inspiration that you have to release your excitement in the form of a high-pitched scream.
  4. TURN OFF GAS: If you set your apartment building on fire, the Italian people will probably chase you out of Rome. If that doesn’t happen, you’ll probably just be homeless, which is awful as well.
  5. SMALL TOILETRIES: Do you have your soap? Your travel-sized shampoo? Your travel sized lotion? Your travel sized toilet paper? (just in case) Trust me, it’s extremely embarrassing to have Airport Security going through every single exfoliating face wash you brought while your friends stand and stare at you from the other side of the security checkpoint. Don’t be that guy.
  6. FIFTY-FIVE EUROS TO GIVE TO EASY JET FOR AN EXTRA BAG: This one is more of a satire. I’ve had an awful experience with Easy Jet when they wouldn’t let me bring my personal bag on board with me. I guess it’s just their strict policy? Still, very annoying.
  7. JEFFREY’S PACKETS: How else will you know the itinerary?
  8. PAJAMAS: No one likes sleeping in jeans. NO ONE.
  9. TAKE OUT TRASH: Its amazing what pests find their way into your home when no one is around. Do not leave your compost sitting around and waiting to be eaten by these creatures! Attracting them is easy, but getting rid of them is much more difficult.
  10.  TOOTHBRUSH/TOOTHPASTE: It’s just one of those basic necessities that everyone forgets. I remember making fun of a student for forgetting his toothbrush, then going into my bag only to realize that I too had forgotten my toothbrush. Karma is coldhearted.

— Michaela