First things first, how to pack. I always carry two bags with me on a flight. A larger backpack to store above me in the luggage compartment (holds my big camera, computer, extra items I had to take out of my checked luggage. Because guess what? It was more than likely overweight). And a small handbag/purse to get me through the flight with these essential items

You're on your trip to a new world destination which you've spent countless hours planning for and you're loving every minute of it. As you're walking through the foreign streets and taking in your new surroundings, you also have in the back of your mind, "What can I take home to my family and friends?"

It's a nagging thought that continually pulls at you each time you walk by one of the souvenir shops selling millions of key chains, shot glasses, soccer jerseys, and knickknacks with the city's name you are in, plastered everywhere. Souvenirs.

Souvenirs are a sticky situation; you want to get something that captures the place you're in but you're so overwhelmed by everything around you. In that moment, you think everyone is going to go googley eyes over a Venice keychain or a braided bracelet from the man on the street offering you 50 for 2 Euros.

Let me give you a little hint: Dig Deeper!! More than likely, souvenirs in this fashion will go in a drawer somewhere and collect dust. If you really look at the classic 'souvenirs', they aren't exactly quality. But they are successful, which is why they are everywhere. Tiny trinkets mass made, just for that, the masses.

When you're feeling overwhelmed by a new city and need a guide to help you bring back the right gift, follow these 5 Travel Hacks.

All of your travel plans and activities come down to one source; money. Without the correct currency, your travel plans come to a complete halt.

Want to buy that delicious looking pretzel from the street vendor in, Germany but don't have any cash or coins and only your credit card? Continue drooling, can't do it. Your particular credit card isn't accepted at the delightful hole in the wall local restaurant you're dining in and you don't have a backup? Start washing dishes. Just coming from Germany and want to buy a souvenir from the Czech Republic but only have Euros and not Czech Korunas? Someone at home is going to be very sad.

Being well informed for the logistics of travel before you reach your destination is smart traveling and will cause you a lot less stress in the long run. 

If you follow these 5 Travel Hacks when it comes to money in Europe, you will have a more enjoyable trip. 

It's as easy as 1, 2, 3..

Step 1. Enter Google: Best Restaurants in _________

Step 2. Scroll to: Trip Advisor: Top 10 Restaurants 2016

Step 3. Choose the $-$$$ to your liking, and ENJOY!

I followed these steps in Verona and was more than satisfied.