Planning To Travel The World? How To Pack Up Your Life So It’s Ready For You When You Get Back

Sep 13, 2023

Last Updated on: Aug 26, 2025

Travel Blog

Before you set off on your global adventure, it’s crucial to have a well-thought-out plan for what to pack and what to store.

Create two lists; one for items you’ll need on your travels and another for possessions that will stay behind. This will help you prioritize and make the packing process more manageable. Remember, the aim is to travel light but also ensure that your life back home remains intact for your return.

Sorting Your Essentials

Deciding what to take with you on your journey is a balancing act between necessity and luxury. Start by listing all the essentials like travel documents, medication, TEFL accreditation, and basic clothing. Once you’ve got that sorted, think about the climate of your destination and pack accordingly.

Don’t forget to include a small first-aid kit and any specialized gear you might need for activities you plan to do. It’s always better to have a few versatile items rather than overpacking with things you might not use.

Using Storage Units

Storage units are an excellent option for keeping your larger possessions safe while you’re away. Not only do they offer a secure environment for items like furniture, but they also provide a climate-controlled setting for keepsakes that may be sensitive to temperature or humidity. Make sure to pack these items carefully, using bubble wrap or cloth to prevent any damage.

Opt for a storage facility that has robust security measures like 24/7 surveillance and coded access to ensure the utmost safety of your belongings. Safestore’s storage units all have 24-hour CCTV, and they have locations across the country. Their dry, clean, and secure units are the perfect place to store your belongings while you travel the world.

What To Do With Your Car

If you own a car, you’ll need to decide what to do with it while you’re traveling. Long-term parking can be expensive and may expose your vehicle to the elements. A better option might be to leave it with a trusted friend or family member who can occasionally run the engine and keep it maintained. Alternatively, you could look into professional vehicle storage services that offer secure, climate-controlled environments specifically designed for car storage.

Preparing Your Home For Your Absence

Before you leave, make sure to take care of household responsibilities that could become issues in your absence. Contact your utility providers to inform them of your travel plans and see if any services can be paused. Arrange for someone to collect your mail or have it held at the post office. If you have subscriptions or regular deliveries, pause or cancel them for the duration of your trip. These small steps will help you avoid unnecessary costs and complications when you return.

Make Your Return As Smooth As Possible

The excitement of traveling the world is unparalleled, but eventually, the time will come to return home. To ensure a smooth transition back to your regular life, it’s essential to plan your homecoming as meticulously as your departure. Start by making a checklist of tasks to complete upon your return, such as restocking your pantry, reactivating paused services, and checking the condition of stored items.

If you’ve left your car with someone, coordinate the return beforehand to avoid any last-minute hassles. Don’t forget to reach out to friends or family who’ve been looking after your home, plants, or pets to let them know your return date. A little planning can go a long way in making your return not just bearable but enjoyable, allowing you to seamlessly pick up where you left off.

Planning a long-term trip abroad is an exciting but complex task that requires meticulous preparation. From sorting your essentials and securing your possessions to taking care of your home and vehicle, each step is crucial for a hassle-free experience. By following these guidelines, you can embark on your adventure with peace of mind, knowing that everything will be ready and waiting for you when you return.

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Barsha Bhattacharya builds stories for a living and seeks mountains for everything else. An English major and remote content strategist, she travels every month, structuring her life around movement rather than routine. Her journeys are rooted in mountaineering and rock climbing, with a deep preference for tents over hotels and cold mornings over comfort. Barsha believes the mountains demand clarity, patience, and presence - the same qualities that shape her work. For her, travel is not an escape but immersion: long routes, rough terrain, and nights under open skies where the line between work and wilderness disappears.

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READ MORE Travel Guide to Amalfi Coast

A Travel Guide To The Amalfi Coast Scenic Towns, Outdoor Walks & Coastal Adventures

BY  Sibashree Nov 27, 2025

Summer 2025 saw the Amalfi Coast become more accessible with Uber launching boat and helicopter services from 26th July to 24th August. However, the Amalfi Coast is not just a hot destination this summer. It has always been the “La Dolce Vita” destination for people planning a summer coastal trip. The Amalfi Coast in Italy is known for its cliffside villages, turquoise waters, and lively Mediterranean culture. Travelers exploring this region often start their day with coastal walks, sunrise views, and of course, their favorite travel mug filled with a warm drink while enjoying sea breezes. Whether you're hiking the famous Path of the Gods or exploring charming seaside towns, the Amalfi Coast blends adventure with relaxation. Getting To The Amalfi Coast: How To Reach The Amalfi Coast Naples International Airport is the biggest airport near the Amalfi Coast. The distance between the airport and the Amalfi Coast is around 64.8 km, and from Naples, there are multiple travel options. From Naples, Travel Options Include: Train to Sorrento + bus/ferry. Car Rental Private transfer You can take a car rental service. However, the path is winding. The journey can be a little tough. The train, bus, and ferry combination is the best for traveling from the Naples Airport to the Amalfi Coast.  Base yourself in towns like Positano, Sorrento, Amalfi, or Ravello. Amalfi Coast Is Going To Be More Accessible With A New Luxury Railway Service Here is some great news about the Amalfi Coast being more accessible for travelers looking for the ultimate Italian experience. From May 2026, Belmond is about to launch a new luxury train service from Paris to the famous coastline of Italy. The train called the “Venice Simplon-Orient-Express” will start its journey from Paris, and on its way to the Amalfi Coast, it will stop at Pompeii. At Pompeii, you can explore the famous historical ruins. It has the volcanic ash coming from the massive eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. As an archaeological landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ruins stand as the “Ghost of the Past.” In addition, the Art Deco style of the train, plush interior, and fine dining facilities ensure a regal travel experience. Outdoor Activities & Walking Trails Despite a strong start in 2025, the major tourism destinations in Italy, including the Amalfi Coast, have witnessed a decline in tourist numbers. However, 2026 looks promising with new tourist areas in Asia and Europe. Nevertheless, in the Amalfi Coast, you must not miss exploring the walking trails and taking part in these outdoor activities. 1. Sentiero Degli Dei (Path Of The Gods) This 5-mile ridge walk is ideal if you want to enjoy the best sunrise views. Once you reach the top, you will get a panoramic view of Positano. The difficulty level of this hike is moderately difficult. So, it demands basic fitness and some training. Furthermore, this trail has some stories of Greek deities associated with it. It is said that the Greek Gods took a walk on this route to protect Ulysses from the attack of the Li Galli islets’ sirens. The trekking route is picturesque, and you will pass through terraced vineyards and fragrant shrubs of the Mediterranean Region. 2. Valle Delle Ferriere Valle Delle Ferriere is the crown jewel of Scala. It is also one of the famous 41 biogenetic reserves of Italy. It has waterfalls, lush forests, and ancient paper mills. With trees providing shade, Valle Delle Ferriere is the ultimate Amalfi Coast destination on summer days. Still, because of its location, starting from the Scala mountains and ending in the Amalfi territory, it is a place less trodden by tourists. So, it remains less crowded even when the entire Amalfi Coast bustles with tourists during the summer holidays. Furthermore, the magnificent fossilized wall covered with moss, in the center of the valley, is the main attraction here. Time stands still once you look at it, and if you keep your ears open, you get to hear the stories from the past. The wall looks like a gigantic sponge, and as time absorbs everything, the hanging moss on the wall keeps absorbing the constantly dripping water. The living stalactite formations on the wall are sculpted by the accumulation of calcium bicarbonate. 3. Ravello Terrace Walk You can start from the Villa Rufolo Gardens and then walk toward the coast with the scent of lemons, and the whiff of sea pleasing your senses. The walk for 90 minutes starts just before the Villa Rufolo entrance. However, finding the right track here can be a little tricky. So, you need someone local as your guide if you are here for the first time. This Ravello Terrace Walk is filled with the chirping of the birds and butterflies. And also, I forgot to mention, the strong yet soothing fragrance of jasmine sometimes feels intoxicating. Overall, the scent of the sea, jasmine, lemons, and other flowers grown on the way creates a concoction that you will enjoy forever. 4. Coastal Walks The Marina Grande to Fornillo Beach (Positano) and Amalfi to Atrani seaside path are some of the most popular coastal walks in the Amalfi Coast. You can complete the Marina Grande to Fornillo Beach walk in just 10 minutes. The Amalfi to Atrani seaside walk is almost of around 10 minutes and you have to walk through the pedestrian tunnel. Other Sightseeing Highlights Don’t miss the following landmarks on the Amalfi Coast. Positano’s colorful vertical village Amalfi Cathedral Fiordo di Furore a dramatic fjord Boat rides to hidden coves. Lemon groves and local limoncello tastings Also, savor every bit of the Sunset moments in the Amalfi Coast. Sunsets along the coast are some of the most stunning in the world. What To Pack For Amalfi Adventures The Amalfi Coast is warm in the summer. However, with the wind blowing in its full strength, it feels a little chilly after sundown. So, choose layered clothing. Here are the essentials you must carry in your backpack for your trip to the Amalfi Coast. Breathable Clothing Comfortable Walking Shoes A Travel Mug for Early Hikes Sun Protection Light Backpack Swimsuit  A Quick-Dry Towel Food In The Amalfi Coast: Signature Dishes You Cannot Miss Amalfi dining revolves around fresh ingredients and seaside views. You must try the following signature dishes. Lemon pasta Fresh seafood dishes Gelato on the beach Espresso at cliffside cafés The outdoor restaurants are perfect for ending your adventure-filled days and gorging on the best local delicacies. Read Also: The Best Beaches in Puerto Rico Ranked! 9 Best Beaches In Greece That You Must Visit Once In Your Life Navigating Coastal Cuisine: A Traveler’s Guide To Safer Seafood Choices

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How About Exploring The Hiking Trails in Channel Islands National Park?

BY  Sibashree Aug 20, 2024

It’s hard to imagine that a watery wonder and a versatile geological place exist so close to the Californian Mainland. Yes, we are talking about the Channel Islands National Park.  Rich in diverse flora, fauna, and wildlife, this national park, consisting of five islands, is a hiker’s favorite. The hiking trails on each island are different. For example, the trails in Anacapa are flatter, and they get steeper as you visit Santa Rosa or Santa Cruz.  Also, as a critical marine sanctuary, this national park offers an amazing experience for people interested in aquatic pursuits. Boating and scuba diving here are activities that an adventurous soul will surely look upto.  Are you ready to pack your bags and hit the trails? Let us join you. Channel Islands Hikes That You Just Cannot Miss  Hiking trails in the five islands of this national park vary in their difficulty parameters. The trails in Anacapa, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, Santa Cruz, and Santa Barbara are easy (Cavern Point Loop), moderate (Potato Harbor), and hard (Montañon Ridge Loop).  As a hiker, you have to be sure of your physical and mental endurance before you start exploring specific trails. Further, you will encounter many challenges as you explore the hiking trails.  Common perils here include poisonous oaks, scorpions, ticks, wildfire risks, reptiles, and Hantavirus spread by deer mice. To deal with these hazards, you must make the most of the buddy system and, most importantly, be respectful to the wildlife.  However, the pain you have to undergo throughout the journey is worth the dramatic experience the trails offer. It’s time to know about them.  Anacapa Island Hiking  Anacapa Island got its current name from its original Chumash Native American Indian name, Anypakh. This island is made of East, Middle, and West Anacapa islets, and surprisingly, none of these are connected to each other.  Before I introduce you to some of the most amazing trekking trails in Anacapa, let me share some highlights about the island. Anacapa Island: Things To KnowAnacapa is known for its diverse vegetation, wildlife, culture, and history.Coreopsis and sunflowers come to life after the winter rain, and you can see them from the California Mainland.Anacapa is the largest breeding colony of western gulls in the world.It is also the largest breeding colony of the California brown pelicans, which are endangered species.Chumash Indian people used to camp here thousands of years ago. Inspiration Point Hike (Easy) Just a 1.5-mile hiking trail, Inspiration Point offers the most amazing view of the island. Enjoy the sheer contrast created by vibrant wildflowers and the tranquil blue water.  Pinniped Point Hike (Easy) Pinniped Point hike, which is a 4-mile distance, is known for its sea lion rookery and lighthouse.  Cathedral Cove Hike (Easy) The 6-mile hiking trail is the best place to see the most amazing rock formations. Here, you will also find beautiful kelp forests, sea lions, sea caves, and birds.  San Miguel Hiking  Hiking in San Miguel is a little tricky as you cannot take the off-trail roads. Further, hiking is only limited to certain spots, as its unique geological features, wildlife, and plants need preservation.  Caliche Forest Hike (Hard)  Despite its difficulty level, Caliche Forest is the most exciting trail to hike in San Miguel. This landscape of five miles has naturally calcified prehistoric vegetation. So, the entire area has the most surreal “fossilized” appearance. A visit to this trail is like a time travel, and the feeling is, at times, eerie.  Cuyler Harbor Beach Hike (Easy) Enjoy the pristine beauty of the 2 miles of white sand stretch and observe the adorable seals. Take a walk along the beach to find the sand running into the rocks.  Cabrillo Monument Hike (Hard)  The distance of this trail is 2 miles. However, the steep climb makes the hiking experience very strenuous. You will visit the monument of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the first European to explore this island.   Santa Cruz Island Hiking  Santa Cruz, or the La Isla de Santa Cruz, is the land of the Sacred Cross. Known as Mini California, this island has endless bounties to offer. From the Transverse Mountain ranges to the deep valleys, canyons, and beaches! You will meet the most diverse geological picture here. Here, I will talk about some of its most prominent hiking trails. However, before that, let’s share some interesting facts about the island. Things To Know About Santa Cruz IslandSize: 96 Square Miles (The Largest Of The 5 Channel Islands)Plant Species: 600Plant Communities: 10Landbird Species: 140Land Mammal Species: 11Cultural History: More than “10,000 years of American Indian habitation, 150 years of European exploration” Cavern Point Loop Hike (Easy) Cavern Point Loop is a popular destination for hiking, kayaking, and seasonal whale watching. As you trek through the 2 miles route, you will get to see the most magnificent coastal vistas.  Potato Harbor Hike (Moderate)  The harbor gets its name from its unique oval or potato shape. The cliffs here are steep and dangerous. The bright white sedimentary rocks (diatomaceous earth) here are formed by diatoms or single-cell sea plants made of silicon dioxide.  Diatomaceous earth has wide applications in filtering water.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Channel Islands National Park (@channelislandsnps) The Giant Kelp Forest is another attraction in Potato Harbor. Kelp is a nutrient-rich and fast-growing algae that helps build a rich marine ecosystem. The California sea lions here will make your visit to the island most delightful with their playful nature.  Montañon Ridge Loop (Hard) Montañon Ridge, with Montañon Peak and High Mount, is the highest ridge on the eastern side of the island. This trekking trail is only for experienced hikers.  The total distance of the hiking trail is 10 miles.  Santa Barbara Hiking  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Channel Islands National Park (@channelislandsnps) Santa Barbara is an island for endless outdoor pursuits like hiking, camping, fishing, and watching wildlife.  Further, Santa Barbara is the island to be if you want to explore the local vegetation. If you visit the island in spring and winter, you will meet the most colorful wildflowers here. Also, delightful flowers like poppies and verbenas are in full bloom in the summer. Do you want to hike on this island? Here are some trails for you.  Lizard’s Mouth Hiking Trail (Moderate) You have to take just a quarter-mile walk off West Camino to find this hiking spot. It’s also a favorite Santa Barbara destination for picnics.  The place gets its name from the rock formation resembling a lizard’s open mouth. This place is picturesque and perfect for photoshoots.  La Cumbre Peak (Diificult)  With the highest elevation of 1215 m, the La Cumbre Peak (the highest in Santa Barbar) hike is full of challenges. However, this trekking trail is full of highlights like the Cathedral and Arlington Peaks, the coastline to the sea, etc.  San Roque Creek (Easy) The San Roque Creek trail is located in the 25-acre recreation area in the park. The area is called Stevens Park. With just an elevation gain of just 93 m, it is an easy trail to explore, and you can have a great time walking with your dogs here.  Santa Rosa Hiking  The hiking trails in Santa Rosa are a combination of flat and steep terrains. The trails to the Water Canyon Beach are flatter. At the same time, roads to the Black Mountain are strenuous.  Water Canyon Campground Hike (Easy) This 3-mile hiking trail is one of the easiest routes in Santa Rosa or all over the Channel Islands. Enjoy a gala picnic with your group here.  Water Canyon Hike (Moderate To Strenuous) The perennial canyon and the local vegetation make the water canyon hike the most amazing experience. If you want, you can also follow the stream bed and get wet.  Black Mountain Hike (Hard) With a distance of 8 miles, this trail offers the most amazing views of the mainland and San Miguel, Santa Cruz, and Santa Rosa islands.  Did You Know? By 1928, many fossils of pygmy mammoths were found in the Channel Islands. Further, almost a complete skeleton of an adult pygmy mammoth was excavated on Santa Rosa Island in 1994. These mammoths were very similar to the Californian mainland mammoths. However, they evolved and got smaller in size to accommodate on the Channel Island. Worldwide, these mammoths are known as Channel Islands Pygmy Mammoths.  Final Words  Channel Islands National Park had 328,746 visitors in 2023 (Source). Despite being close to the California mainland, these islands offer tranquility, and with many places to visit and activities to do on the five islands, you will surely be spoilt by the choices at this national park.  On all the islands, you can trek, fish, camp, and take part in many water sports. However, two of the most coveted activities in these parks are hiking and exploring marine life. The variety you find here in whales and other marine mammals can be a close match to the vibrant marine ecosystem of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.  In this guide, I have highlighted trekking through the trails in this national park. Do you want to know more about its wildlife and marine ecosystem? Share your thoughts in the comment below.  Channel Islands National Park FAQs  Which Island Is The Best To Hike In Channel Islands National Park? Anacapa and Santa Cruz islands are great for hiking in the Channel Islands. However, if I am to share my opinion, Anacapa will be my silent favorite.  The trekking trails here are way easier in Anacaopa than in Santa Cruz. So, irrespective of your expertise level, you will be able to hike the entire island in a day.  Also, as the trekking journey here is less arduous, you will be able to enjoy the surrounding scenic beauty even more. You will meet the most adorable sea birds, sea lions, and seals. Also, if you are lucky enough to be in these mountains during spring or late winter, you will find the mountains replete with colorful wildflowers. Inspiration Point, Cathedral Cove, and Pinniped Point are some of the highlights of hiking expeditions in the Anacapa Islands.  What Is Special About Channel Islands National Park?  Channel Islands National Park is special because it is a paradise for trekkers, nautical surfers, and wildlife explorers.  Its San Miguel, Santa Rosa, Anacapa, Santa Barbara, and the largest, Santa Cruz islands have many hiking trails with Transverse Ranges.  Further, half of the national park is under the ocean, and you will find six nautical miles of water around it. So, it is a critical marine sanctuary and a great place for scuba diving, boating, and other aquatic pursuits.  In addition, its wildlife is mesmerizing, with the presence of animals like island foxes, spotted skunks, salamanders, whales, California sea lions, sea otters, dolphins, giant black seabass, and more.  Which Island Is The Largest In Channel Islands National Park? The largest island in the Channel Islands National Park is Santa Cruz, which is also known as the epitome of California. Its size is 96 square miles.  Its geology is versatile, with Transverse Ranges, fault systems, springs, streams, and canyons. You will also come across sea caves, beaches, and coastline cliffs. Among the sea caves, the Painted Cave is the most prominent one with lichens, algae, and colorful rocks. Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. Be Soothed And Meet History At Hot Springs National Park.

READ MORE Most Scenic Road Trips Around The World

A Guide To The Most Scenic Road Trips Around The World

BY  Barsha Sep 23, 2023

Setting out on a road trip is unquestionably thrilling as well as liberating. Nothing compares to taking to the open road with the wind in your hair and stunning scenery rushing by.    A proper guide will help you discover the best routes so you never have to stress out while on your adventurous trip. You can experience some of the most stunning scenery to make your road trip worth all the traveling efforts. Here is a list of the top six most beautiful road journeys globally to create a memorable road journey of all time. The Most Mesmerising Road Trips: The List Of The Best Here is a list of the most spectacular scenic road trips from around the world. So let's understand them here.  Pacific Coast Highway, California, USA Driving the Pacific Coast Highway from north to south keeps you within the lane closest to the water, letting you experience the most heavenly coastline view. The Pacific Coast route follows US Highway 101 in Washington, Oregon, and at the northernmost point of California. Starting in San Francisco, travel south to Los Angeles, stopping in quaint communities like Santa Cruz and Monterey.  The West Coast is also notable for its number of well-preserved historic sites that stand as vivid reminders of life on what was once the farthest frontier of a new nation, in addition to the overwhelming scale of its natural beauty. Most of these sites have yet to be torn down, built on, or even built around.  Great Ocean Road, Victoria, Australia The 243-kilometer Great Ocean Road winds past lush rainforests and beautiful beaches. It also glides by the recognizable Twelve Apostles limestone stacks as it travels down Australia's southeast coast. Look out for koalas in the treetops as well as whales breaching in the ocean as you travel from Torquay to Port Fairy. Remember to stop along the trip at the breathtaking Loch Ard Gorge and London Arch. The magnificent Great Ocean Road follows the seashore cliffs that crisscross the untamed as well as the battered Southern Ocean. The famed road's breathtaking panoramas inspire awe. It has jagged cliffs, deserted beaches, and towering bluffs flanked by vivid green countryside, Ring Road, Iceland The Ring Road, commonly known as Route 1, should be at the top of your list of things to do when visiting Iceland. Visit South Iceland, the East Fjords, North Iceland, as well as the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, among other places, to see Iceland at its best. Students studying in Europe can quickly leave their Student accommodations, plan a road trip with their new friends, and create great memories. The most incredible way to experience Iceland's most beautiful scenery is by taking the Ring Road around the island. Explore the tranquil Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, take in the unearthly splendor of the Golden Circle, and unwind in the Blue Lagoon's geothermal waters. Garden Route, South Africa Stretching from Mossel Bay to Storms River, South Africa's Garden Route is a picturesque drive that showcases the country's diverse beauty. The Africa's Garden Route is a 750-kilometer-long route with lush forests, pristine beaches, and stunning landscapes. Visit the famous Tsitsikamma National Park, watch whales in Hermanus, and explore the Cango Caves in Oudtshoorn.  The Garden Route is also famous for its excellent wildlife spotting opportunities and adventurous activities such as shark cage diving and bungee jumping. The Africa's Garden Route can be a great road trip for young adult college students, and it it can also be a great reunion trip for old college friends who recently moved out of their student housing. Transfăgărășan Highway, Romania For an adrenaline-filled road trip, head to Romania and take on the mighty Transfăgărășan Highway. Marvel at the impressive Balea Lake, drive through hairpin bends and reach the highest point at the stunning Vidraru Dam.  The Fagaras Mountains, a component of the Carpathians, are crossed by the route as indicated by its name. These mountains, which separate western and southern Romania, are frequently called the Transylvanian Alps. The 90km (56 miles) long road ascents over the summits with ambition. It initially imitates a river and later just follows the ridges. Route des Grandes Alpes, France and Switzerland The genuine classic journey spans 684 kilometers (425 miles). It ascends over some of the highest as well as the most picturesque mountain passes in all of Europe. It encompasses Thonon-les-Bains on the shores of Lac Léman to Menton on the French Riviera.  As you drive from Lake Geneva to Nice, stop by iconic destinations like Chamonix, Val d'Isère, and the glamorous French Riviera. Make sure you give yourself enough time so that you may stop frequently. It is the most well-known tourist route in the French Alps, snaking through remote valleys and across high mountain passes. Conclusion The most stunning places on earth may be explored at your speed by taking a scenic road trip. So fill up the tank, gather your belongings, and get ready to embark on an exciting journey. About AmberStudent - Amber Student is one of the leading platforms of student accommodation (2016) and has served over eighty million students from around the world. It is your one-stop destination for all your needs, mainly housing needs.  The experts of ember completely assist them.  They secure housing far from your home. So look for our social platforms, Facebook as well as Instagram, and be on our journey! Read Also: The Easy Way to Travel in India 10 Useful Tips For Planning A Trip That You Will Love Why Engage Competent Tourism Companies For Executing Best Leisure Time