But if you choose one of these more traditional ways to spend your week off this spring, there are a few must-have items you’ll need to bring with you. Take a look at our suggestions on what you simply have to make room for in your suitcase this season.
Multiple Swimwear Options
Putting on a wet, dirty suit will not only make you look a little grimy, it’s also incredibly uncomfortable to sport cold, wet bottoms until they have time to dry off in the sun. USA Today recommends that you bring at least two suits with you on your trip, that way you have time to (at the very least) rinse one out and let it dry for a day before wearing it again.
And please, guys and girls, do not wear your swimsuits as underwear. That suit you wore all day out on the beach does not a fresh pair of undies make. Not only is it nasty, but it’s a surefire way to getting an infection.
Condoms
There’s no need to be coy. Whether you have the intention of hooking up with someone on your break of not, you never know when the mood could strike.
Just in case you get the urge to get to know someone on an intimate level, no matter your gender, or your sexuality, be proactive and bring condoms. Adam & Eve writes in their Safer Sex Guide that “where you reside or who you fraternize with are mute points, since illnesses circulate in human blood, seminal fluids, vaginal secretions and mammary gland discharges of everyone.” Basically, you need to wrap it up, because as they point out, “There are no class or race lines when it comes to STDs.” Indeed.
One Nice Outfit
Most of the places you patronize on your trip will likely have a “swimsuits optional” policy, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t bring at least one nicer outfit with you. There’s a chance that you could end up on a date. More importantly, as Nerd Wallet explains in an article, if you’re traveling to a location you’d be interested in working, you could have the opportunity to network with people who could help in your future job endeavors.
When meeting new people, you can never underestimate the chance of making vital professional connections, especially if you’re graduating soon. And if the chance to do so during your break arises, it’s always a good idea to have the tools necessary to look the part.
After a hard semester, you’re entitled to a little stress-relief. Use your time off to cut loose—just make sure you pack responsibly.
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