A Cuban woman shared on TikTok the process of packing her bags before traveling to the island, in a video that reflects the complexity and stress that many experience when organizing their luggage to visit family.
"I'm going to Cuba and I'm getting my bags ready. This sounds crazy, but well, blessings," commented the young woman identified as @migdreysiperez on social media, where she showcased everything she is packing in her luggage.
In the video, you can see how the Cuban woman packs boxes of yogurts and baby food that she bought at Sam's Club, because they do not require refrigeration and she considers them a practical option to take back to the island. "Here, there's over a hundred dollars' worth," she said while showcasing the products.
Additionally, she showed that she carries jewelry, toothpaste, insect repellent, seasonings, bay leaves, oregano, medications, colognes, masks, perfumes, coffee, and even soaps, which she places in different suitcases to distribute the weight. "I love bringing Goya seasonings; that’s something that can’t be missing in Cuba,” she stated.
The young woman recounted, amidst laughter and nervousness, that she feels anxious every time she packs her bags, as she not only faces the stress of packing correctly but also the excitement of reuniting with her mother, her sister, and her son after more than a year without traveling to the island.
"It’s a state of so many mixed feelings... I even get nervous because there isn’t much time left," she confessed, while explaining that she organizes the suitcases into sections for medication, hygiene products, and food.
The video quickly went viral on TikTok, where many users related to the experience of traveling to Cuba with products that are scarce in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions About Packing for Travel to Cuba
Why do Cubans abroad carry essential goods in their suitcases when traveling to Cuba?
Cubans abroad bring essential goods in their luggage when traveling to Cuba due to the scarcity and high prices of these items on the island. This practice has become common among those who wish to help their relatives by bringing food, medicine, and personal hygiene products that are hard to find in Cuba.
What products are most common in the luggage of those traveling to Cuba?
The most common products in the luggage of those traveling to Cuba include non-perishable foods, medications, personal hygiene products, and toiletries. They also tend to bring specific items such as seasonings, candies, vitamins, and supplements, all of which are hard to find on the island.
How do Cubans abroad organize their luggage to maximize space?
Cubans abroad pack their suitcases meticulously, taking advantage of every available space. They use techniques such as opening factory packages to save space, distributing the weight among several suitcases, and packing products in airtight bags to avoid issues at airport security.
What is the emotional impact of packing suitcases to travel to Cuba?
Packing bags to travel to Cuba generates a mix of strong emotions, such as anxiety, joy, and nostalgia. Travelers experience the stress of organizing their luggage and the excitement of reuniting with their loved ones, reflecting the deep love and commitment they have towards their families on the island.
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