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There are two questions every college graduate is asked after being handed their diploma: what time did you get home from partying last night and what's next? For the latter question, the answer might be an exciting internship or entry-level job in a new city. But for some, traveling is what's next on their horizon.
There's truly no better way of celebrating years of studying than traveling somewhere new and fun. If you've spent the last couple of years in campus libraries and dorm rooms — not getting the pleasure of studying abroad — a trip to someplace out of your purview is an excellent idea. But you need to pack smart.
In addition to considering the best ways to travel this summer, you should also be mindful of what you're packing. If you're flying, travel light with a carry-on filled with necessities (we'll get to those below). If you're going on a road trip, still try to pack light but also consider ways to condense, compartmentalize, and carry all your must-haves.
And with that said, below is our Teen Vogue guide to traveling this summer.
Where to Stay & What to Do
London
Stay at the Town Hall Hotel
If you've never traveled out of the country, London is a great first place to visit. The bustling city of 8.9 million is similar to New York in being fast-paced, but has an older history that's been well preserved by architecture. If you're a history lover, the Town Hall Hotel in Bethnal Green is an amazing stay. Situated within walking distance of luscious Victoria Park and the hipster Shoreditch neighborhood, the hotel is a refurbished town hall from the turn of the century that local politicians use to discuss legal affairs! The mid-century modern designed suites that were previously offices are fairly large and can accommodate friend groups. And there's a fantastic restaurant on the second floor that offers room service and a lovely Sunday brunch. For a Michelin Star experience, the hotel boasts Da Terra, a fine dining restaurant that needs to be booked well in advance of your stay.
Go to Carnaby Street
Deciding on where to eat doesn't have to be frustrating. When in London, head straight to Carnaby Street for a diverse mix of global restaurant options. For super fresh, delicious small plates we highly recommend Imad's Syrian Kitchen (order the fattoush salad and shish tawook). If your group is in the mood for something more hearty, Dehesa has savory Spanish tapas in a cozy, corner-side location. And if in between sight-seeing you want a quick laser facial that will make your makeup pop in all those vacation selfies, book a 15-minute appointment at Skin Laundry for a state-of-the-art refresh.
Lake Como, Italy
Stay at the Dandelion Suites and Park Como
Your graduation trip is actually doubling as a bae-cation and we're not mad. For a romantic summer trip, Italy is your best bet. The Dandelion Suites and Park Como is just miles from Milan but also close to Lake Como, one of Italy's most popular summer spots. We love this stay because it's the best of both worlds and hidden enough that you can just enjoy time walking on the hotel's grounds.
Toronto
Stay at the Bisha Hotel
There's a family member who's willing to treat you to a hotel for your graduation trip, but they want to know where you'd like to stay. Let us tell you why Toronto should be your answer: the Caribbean food, the nightlife, and the friendliest people around. If you stay at the gorgeous Bisha Hotel — which has rooms designed by Lenny Kravitz's design company — you're in a safe area of downtown and not far from the beach. Trust us, add Toronto to your travel list.
Go to Carnival
If your travel dates are around the end of July, you cannot miss Toronto's world-famous Caribana. The four-day celebration, which is considered the largest outdoor festival in North America, honors the rich Caribbean history and culture of the city. Tied to Afro-Caribbean emancipation in colonized islands, Toronto started its carnival celebration in 1967 and has kept it going with the annual parade, food vendors, live music, dancing, parties, and more. Seeing the beautiful Mas Band costumes alone is worth the visit.
Albuquerque
Stay at the Los Poblanos Historic Inn
If staying in the States and frolicking in a field of lavender is your idea of a good time, book Los Poblanos Historic Inn ASAP. This ranch-turned hotel is a road trip away in the great blue state of New Mexico. You love a spa, they got it. You love culinary experiences, they got it. You love Indigenous history, they have that too. And if you're an art lover, we suggest you take a day trip to Santa Fe to see the amazing Georgia O'Keeffe Museum.
What to Pack
Youth to the People travel set
As one of the cleanest and most environmentally conscious brands on the market, Youth to the People is truly top tier for keeping your skin glowing whatever timezone your land in. Most of their products come in travel size (2 oz or less) sets, but we also urge you to try their new Polypeptide-121 Future Cream which gives an extra boost of moisture for a dewy finish.
CEP compression socks
If you suffer from circulation issues or are going on a long flight, compression socks are good to have on hand. CEP's Tall Compression Socks for Recovery increase blood flow reducing cramping and swelling. Even if you think you won't need these, pack them!
COVRY sunglasses
High school friends Athina Wang and Florence Shin founded COVRY eyewear in 2015 as a way to bring a diverse, structurally conscious product to the market. Now, their genderless line of eyewear offers "inclusive fits for low-bridge noses, common in BIPOC faces, and particularly prevalent among Asian faces."
Find Me Now pant set
Another AAPI brand we're obsessed with is Find Me Now. You're gonna probably want to buy everything from their Queens-based brand, but for the sake of your trip, we suggest the practical and retro Charlie Ruffle Short Set.
Picnicwear towel handbag
You're going to need a light, condensable bag for your trip too. There are a ton of options out there, but we love Picnicwear's Teardrop Bag made from deadstock materials that can be machine washed.
Birkenstock sandals
Our mantra is "light and easy" for your carry-on suitcase, which is why these Birkenstock EVA sandals are great. They are incredibly lightweight and flexible, but also comfortable for long city strolls or walks on the beach. Plus, they come in a ton of fun colors.
Judy emergency kit
One can never anticipate an emergency on a road trip. But you can prepare. Judy's The Mover Max has a ton of survival supplies all in one waterproof backpack. This is one of those items you just get, toss in the car, and appreciate when it comes in handy.
Anker travel charger
With all the airport travel this summer, there's bound to be people hogging those free charging stations at your gate. Be the hero of your travel group with a portable charger that functions for multiple devices. This Mini Portable Charger Power Bank by Anker is a pocket-size savior.
Planned Parenthood water bottle
With all the heatwaves happening across the country, it's imperative that you stay hydrated. And what better way to quench your thirst than with a water bottle that promotes reproductive rights. This $5 Planned Parenthood Water Bottle is one we'd get for ourselves and our travel companions.
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