It’s summer which means days by the pool, watching Netflix all night, and, of course, going on vacation! Whether it’s a romantic getaway, family vacation, adventure with friends, or solo trip, every vacation seems to have a few things in common.

1. The initial excitement

The flights are booked, hotels are reserved, and plans are set. After what seems like a decade of planning it finally sets in that you’re going on VACATION! Time for fun, relaxation, and adventure!

2. Choosing what to pack

Time to pack your bags! This time, for sure, you’re going to pack light — only the essentials. But wait… that shirt doesn’t match those jeans and those sandals look wayyy better with that outfit than those shoes. What if it gets cold? How many jackets do I need? Do I need a scarf? Definitely need that hat. Suddenly your whole closet is in your suitcase which has expanded to three times its original size. Hopefully the airport staff won’t notice..?

3. Going through security

Your suitcase is packed and you’re ready to begin your journey! But first, the dreaded airport security. You finally make your way to the front of the line and then the amazing race begins.“Okay, shoes off, belt off, liquids out, electronics out, suitcase up.”You’re prepared for this. But suddenly the scanner starts to beep and three different TSA officers begin loudly instructing you. WHY IS EVERYONE YELLING?! You go through additional security checks just to realize you forgot to empty your pockets. That damn key-chain.

4. The plane ride

As the plane takes off you try to get comfortable for the many hours ahead. With the lady in front of you reclining her seat and the man next to you dozing on your shoulder, you end up cramped in a position that resembles Picasso’s “Figures at the Seaside.”

5. Reaching your destination

After what seemed like an eternity you finally reach your destination! Time for the festivities, adventure and fun to begin!

6. Watching for pick pockets

As you make your way around the city you take every precaution possible to avoid pickpockets. Wearing your backpack backwards all day and clinging to your purse is only the beginning. Everyone around you becomes a threat, even that cute little three-year-old and grandma. You protect those seven dollars in your bag like it’s your life.

7. Ordering food

What’s a vacation without good food? You’ve made a list of all the local/tourist-y foods you want to try and start coordinating meals in your brain until your mouth begins to water. You’ve got your game plan ready but when you reach the restaurant you realize everything is way out of your price range so you eventually opt for the boring classic—a plain burger and fries.

8. Getting lost

Things are different here: food, culture, fashion, and most importantly: transportation. Nevertheless you set out on your journey with the confidence of Christopher Columbus in 1492. You’ve got it all under control. Get off at the second metro stop, hop on the train for 45 minutes, take a bus to the city, and then walk a mile-and-a-half to your destination. Simple enough. Except your map was upside down the whole time and you now have no idea where you are.

9. Buying souvenirs

While you’re racking up on memories and adventures, you can’t forget to bring something back for your friends! You stop by every souvenir shop to search for the perfect gift. No matter how tacky the bobble head, t-shirt, or hat is, you know they’ll love it since it came from you.

10. Packing up

The dreaded time has come. Your trip is ending and it’s time to go home. As you reluctantly pack up your suitcase, you become overwhelmed with a mix of emotions. Why must all good things come to an end?

11. Reaching home

You finally get home from your adventure and despite initial sadness you can’t help but feel happy. There really is no place like home.