I posted the original version of this article for PuckerMob, a blogging site. The following article has been edited for creative purposes.
You can view my originally published post here.
As the holidays and break from college rapidly approach, some of us may be making the hour long drive home, others may be leaving the country. Whether you are with friends and family or travel alone, whether you take a short trip or fly across the country, here are 5 very important things to remember while traveling.
1. Mcdonald's coffee will never be as good as Starbucks Coffee. It's worth the extra $2 to get good caffeine in your system before a long drive. For me, the airport is almost 2.5 hours away and morning driving can be difficult, especially for us late-risers. Starbucks coffee is so worth the extra because not only is it yummy, they normally have coupons to make it more affordable. (This is not to say that Mcdonald's hash browns aren't the bomb; they are the best morning drive snack ever).
2. For the most part, the people you sit by on a plane will be normal and kind. The first time I traveled alone, I was so nervous that my "seat neighbor" would be a serial killer... Turned out I sat by very kind year women - most definitely not serial killers.
Be cordial, but also be safe. That's not to say you could be seated by a unsafe person. If that is the case and you are uncomfortable, ask a flight attendant for a seat change - safety first any day!
3. Speaking of safety, always keep your valuables (I.D., passport, phone, wallet...etc.) on you at all times. People in airports or at gas stations are not always of the kindest spirits and losing these valuables could mean the end of your trip, (or identity theft?) Both which would be unfortunate.
4. Don't expect to sleep well on the plane. If you are alone, you won't have a shoulder to sleep on and if you're like me, you will be paranoid about touching your neighbor. What I recommend and do is grab a cup of herbal tea to take on the plane. If you can't sleep, at least try to relax! And make sure to catch up on sleep when you arrive to your destination!
5. Traveling in college is one of the most classic "adult things" you can do while still being an under-functional adult. When you travel alone, you are getting an amazing experience that not many college students get. Whether it be to another state or another country, being in this situation at such a young age is very exciting and is not meant to be taken lightly.
And with that, I hope you enjoy your break! To all the students reading, good luck on finals. And to all who are traveling home soon, drive and fly safely!
