I want to be a light packer. I strive to be a light packer. But if today proved anything, it’s that I still have a long way to go.
Two hefty suitcases (read: over 50 pounds each) later, here I am.
Achieving such a level of luggage obesity is by no means easy, even for a packaholic like myself. It took strategy, a full day of errands, a very patient boyfriend/family and a little bit of luck.
Oh, and some great tunes to boot.
And so, I bring you my inspirational packing playlist – equal parts romanticized notions of travel and slightly caffeinated beats. Enjoy, after the jump!
1. Airplanes (feat. Hayley Williams of Paramore) – B.o.B
Everyone in my age bracket has likely heard this song by now, but I discovered it for the first time this week. Too catchy to deny, and a travel theme? It has a lock on the No. 1 slot.
2. God Killed The Queen – Louis XIV
I mean, I am going to England, after all.
3. Here Comes the Summer – Palmdale
A peppy, summery beat coupled with acerbic, bitter lyrics. California cool at its finest.
4. Vertigo – U2
In just a few hours I’ll be tens of thousands of feet in the air. Vertigo, anyone?
5. Day Tripper – The Beatles
The Beatles and England go together like Nutella and crepes. Delicious. Bonus points for a travel reference in the song title.
6. Around The Bend – The Asteroids Galaxy Tour
Traveling always makes me very, very excited for what lies around the bend; so, too, does this song.
7. Beautiful – Under the Influence of Giants
This song has nothing to do with the U.K. or travel or packing, but it’s rocking and seriously original. Sometimes, that’s enough.
8. Lost! – Coldplay
“Not all those who wander are lost.” – Tolkein
9. Time to Pretend – MGMT
On the surface, Time to Pretend preaches living fast and dying young; but, at its heart, it is a song about living a rich and full life. Mantra for my summer, perhaps?
10. Lisztomania – Phoenix
I was hooked on this song front the first few notes, which seem to exude a sense of forward progress.
11. Fel del Av Gården – Movits
Although it makes me feel slightly lost in translation, this Swedish song is irresistible. Hat tip to the Colbert Report for introducing these talented musicians to the world last year.
12. Holiday – Vampire Weekend
Vampire Weekend is perfection in musical form. Enough said.
13. Once – Diana Vickers
This song recently hit No. 1 in the U.K., but the States have yet to catch on.
14. Other Side of the World – KT Tunstall
Yes, it’s a generic pop song, but it mentions travel and I love it. No regrets.
15. Paris – Kate Nash
Don’t worry, this song still relates to the U.K., as Kate Nash happens to be one of my favorite British songstresses. I primarily like her because she sings with a British accent, which begs the question: How will I function when surrounded by people with British accents?!
