I have every emotion about this trip.
I am eager for the adventures: the new places, foods, languages, ideas.
I am nostalgic for what I will miss at home: the people, the events, the fear of missing out.
I am grateful for the flexibility, freedom, and courage to be able to go on this trip.
I am optimistic about the things I will learn.
I am nervous about travel logistics and how to get between towns.
I am prepared – I took some self defense classes, and I learned how to fold clothes for travel. And I am at the airport right now.

I think this trip will change my life.

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I will be traveling and working. Being a longterm digital nomad wouldn’t suit my lifestyle; but a couple of months sounds pretty alright.

The general plan is walking tours, beach days, whatever else during the day. Then, I will work my eastern timezone job in the hostels during local siesta times and in cute cafes in the evenings.

Here’s what I packed all in a 40L backpack:

The backpack is carry-on friendly size!

Technology

• work computer + charger
• personal computer + charger
• headphones
• portable computer charger
• portable phone charger
• pixel watch + charger
• travel adapters and converters

Clothes

• 4 shirts
• 2 tank tops
• bikini
• 3 shorts
• 2 dresses
• 12 panties
• 5 pairs of socks
• tennis shoes
• a jacket

Toiletries

• vitamins
• sunscreen
• toothpaste
• deodorant
• face lotion
• body soap
• shampoo bar
• conditioner bar
• ponytail holders
• nail clippers
• tweezers
• hairbrush
• quick dry towel
• divacup

MISC

• packing cubes
• a combination lock
• multiple credit cards and debit cards
• a notebook and a few pens
• a fanny pack
• a collapsable backpack that serves as a daypack

Things I didn’t pack, but I plan to buy at some point:

• sundress
• sandals
• water shoes

Note: If you are in the Cincinnati area looking for self defense training, I one million percent recommend TrueDefense! I feel more prepared locally and abroad to avoid unsafe situations, and I also feel equipped to defend myself. They have both women’s and men’s classes. Check them out!