ted students anticipate their upcoming vacations and week off from school.Students that are going away should keep a checklist of must have items to bring on what could be the best week of their lives.
“I always make a checklist before I pack to go away somewhere. It makes things easier and more efficient in a time of such excitement when things can easily be forgotten,” said senior Nikki Sanders awaiting her trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
First on the checklist, and most importantly to take on all international travel, is identification. A passport is an internationally recognized travel document that serves to verify its holder as a U.S. citizen. It is a must-have to get back into the United States after visiting another country. The West Chester post office, as well as the court house, can take passport pictures and have them completed within six to eight weeks. It is also important to bring alternative identification, such as a drivers’ license.
While anticipating an amazing break, it is important to be fully prepared if a situation were to go wrong. Keeping this in mind, it is essential to show the medical personnel in the country you are visiting that you have insurance and can get treated.
Also on the checklist, keeping safety in mind, is sunscreen. Prolonged sun exposure can severely damage the skin, especially in spring break hot spots such as Acapulco, Cancun, or the Bahamas, where, at this time of year, temperatures can reach the 80s.
Next on the checklist is a bathing suit. If you are going away to a place where there will be sun and sand, you are definitely going to need a bathing suit to relax in. Retail stores such as Target are currently selling bathing suits for men and women for as low as $15.
Next on the list is a camera, most important for preserving your memories around forever. Local stores such as Rite Aid sell Kodak disposable cameras for $7.99 and a waterproof camera for $11.99.
Another important item to remember to pack for your spring break trip is sunglasses. According to the Canadian Opthalmological Society, “Ultra Violet (UV) light is the component of sunlight most responsible for eye damage.” It is recommended to invest in a pair of sunglasses that filter out 99 to 100 percent of the UV light. They also suggest wearing a wide brimmed hat to protect your skin from the sun.
A travel first aid kit containing the basics is also important to pack. Band-aids, gauze, anti-bacterial cream such as Neosporin and ibuprofen are among the items in a basic first aid kit.
More travel basics include toothpaste, toothbrush, hair brush, shampoo, conditioner and any other necessary toiletries to get you through the week.
For those students who have chosen not to go away this year, there are many local spots that can still guarantee a great time. With Philadelphia and Atlantic City so close to our area, individuals can plan a quick getaway. Spring break is not about where you go, but who you spend your time and make memories with.
Spring break is a recognized time for fun, sun and memories, and with this checklist any individual can ensure a great week, no matter where they end up visiting.