Parents, Packing and Buying New Clothes

I’m just now getting to that age where I understand what my parents sacrificed for me. It’s not that I wasn’t grateful growing up. I was. I just didn’t understand the cost of everything.

I’m leaving on my first big girl trip today. I’ve traveled alone before, but I’ve never done everything on my own. Usually I have my mom or roommate there to help me pack and make sure I have everything.

As I write this, I have 5 pairs of heels and a bathing suit ready. Since I’m not going anywhere near a pool, ocean or Miss America pageant, that should turn out good. (not).

I’m going to need more than that, probably. At this point, I’ve narrowed my options down to these:

1. Stop at every mall and outlet between here and North Carolina and just buy new clothes. Pros: New clothes. Cons: Less money.
2. Not pack and hope that there are enough clothes in my trunk to last three days. Pros: Not getting arrested for indecent exposure. Cons: I think the only thing in my trunk is 30 ballet costumes for the little girls.
3. Break down and pack. Pros: I get to use my matching Vera Bradley luggage. Cons: I hate packing.
4. Throw everything I can reach in my closet in a bag and hope for the best. Pros: I’ll have clothes. Cons: I haven’t traded my summer clothes out so there’s a good chance I’d end up with a bunch of sweaters.

At this point, I’m strongly leaning towards Option A.

If I didn’t have grad school weighing on me, it would definitely be Option A.

But I suppose I should save some money. Right?

I’ll wind this up with some advice: Parents, be patient. Your grateful teens will become your broke adult children who can’t pack until the last minute and then just throw random items in a bag. I don’t know anyone there anyways.