Penn Global Seminars Carry-on Only?

PGS: Palermo: Empires, Migrations, and Mafia

Victoria, one of the PGS Correspondents, shares her experience abroad during the Spring 2024 semester. Follow along with the group of correspondents on our blog and look out for their images on the @pennabroad Instagram feed.

Preface: PGS allows you to check a bag; however, my class and professor preferred that we not check a bag to avoid complications during our layover.

One carry-on? 17 pounds? For TEN days in Italy, where going to the supermarket becomes a fashion show?

I doubted myself and everyone in my class, but upon arrival at the airport, I was impressed to see we all succeeded… one way or another. But let’s take a step back; what is needed for a week in Palermo?

ESSENTIALS

Most obviously, you must remember your PASSPORT! Next, credit/ debit cards, cash, or a phone payment system are set up. No one plans to leave their life savings (yes, that means the money from your campus job) in Italy, but you will require money regardless. Lastly, a charging adapter is necessary, but it can be bought in every airport if this is forgotten.

CLOTHING

For most, the most stress-inducing category is clothing, as you want to ensure the perfect combination of pieces that maximize style, space, and comfort. Firstly, choose a comfortable airport outfit and plan to wear it again for the return trip. If you are exceptionally short on space (like me), make this the only loungewear you bring.

At Penn, I exclusively enjoy sweatpants and hoodies, but meeting the former mayor of Palermo, migrant community leaders, and visiting photogenic museums calls for more. Standard Palermitan March weather requires three nice pants, including jeans and trousers. Sweaters are bulky and heavy; therefore, my limit was two, but they can be re-worn. I chose a variety of plain tank tops and different-colored oversized button-up shirts for light and easy, warm day outfits. If it is cold, one casual, light jacket and one evening leather jacket are enough for the week. When preparing for Palermitan nightlife, such as dinners with friends or late-night market trips, leather and black clothing should be prioritized if you would like to fit in with locals (not a necessity; they will know you are foreign anyway).

Ultimately, there is no need to purchase a new wardrobe for this trip because it is only one week, and your personal style may be better suited than you believe.

SHOES 

Our professor recommended that we bring two pairs of sneakers as the program consists mostly of walking. I did as he recommended, but many of my classmates brought extra sandals and heels. These are not necessities, but if you have space and want these shoes for a coastline walk or nighttime events, then it wouldn’t hurt. But always bring more socks than expected because spontaneous rain may ruin a few pairs.

OTHER

At first, I felt I needed to bring my own hair and shower products, but they are an immense waste of space. Instead, pack the absolute necessities into small reusable containers (sold at CVS) and use the products provided at the hotel. Additionally, my classmates and I found specific products we NEEDED in common. These groups plan to buy these products upon arrival and share for the week. If you wear make-up, remember it is heavy and bring the bare minimum to stay comfortable. Also, ensure your make-up, perfume, containers, etc., are at most 3 fl. Oz. Everyone is aware of this rule but forgets amidst the stress of packing.

TIPS AND TRICKS

Check the weather and plan accordingly. This seems obvious, but upon arrival at the airport, my classmates realized that they should have brought an umbrella or a raincoat while we all checked the radar. I was prepared (and now you will be too)!

My professor eased our worries by reminding us that laundromats also exist abroad. He showed us this street-side washer and dryer that cost 13 euros. This is an easy, relatively cheap way to double your closet in Palermo.

Be smart and creative. At the airport, I watched my classmates remove layer after layer while going through security to save space. One student even had a secret bag under her jacket, carrying a stuffed backpack and carry-on suitcase. Our professor reminded us to offset the scale by slightly holding up our suitcase with our feet. American Airlines will not suffer if you have a few extra pounds they do not know about, but your wallet will suffer if you do not use these tips and tricks.

IN CONCLUSION….

Do not worry! Focus on the fun and educational week you are about to have abroad! Anything you may forget (aside from your passport and money) is purchasable in Palermo and any other country you visit. Pack light and smart, and enjoy the trip!