Preparing for World Youth Day is key. While it’s vital to keep an open mind and an open heart ready to receive what the Lord has in store for you–and this requires flexibility and being open to surprises!–it is also important to prepare when and where you can. There are certain things you can do now to get ready which will help you be more able to enter into the experience of World Youth Day.
Some people go to World Youth Day to visit the country where it’s taking place. Some go to experience new cultures and meet people from around the world. Some go to deepen their faith. And some go to see the Pope. Whatever your reason, you can’t help but be reminded that even with our differences and diversity, we are all together in Christ.
But before you do all that, make sure you’ve checked everything off your list. Here are our recommendations for preparing for World Youth Day. (We’ll have a whole packing webinar before we leave, too!)
Pack Light
When you go to World Youth Day, the name of the game is to pack light. We strongly recommend bringing just one suitcase and a daypack. All Verso pilgrims will be staying in hotels where they can keep their luggage – even when we walk out to the Vigil! So while there’s no need to carry everything with you, you’ll still be glad you didn’t overpack.
As you pack, remember that it is going to be hot and humid in Seoul. You’ll need to keep sunscreen on and drink plenty of water to keep you hydrated through the days of walking and waiting in the sun.
Build Endurance
You are going to do quite a lot of walking on this pilgrimage. Start walking around your neighborhood or a park each day to build your endurance. Make sure you are wearing the shoes and socks you will be wearing on the pilgrimage.
Limit Technology
It will be important to have your cell phone in case of an emergency, to use the WYD app, and to stay in touch with your family back home. But in general, we encourage you to limit your use of technology on this pilgrimage. We recommend leaving your laptop, tablet, electronic games, and other gadgets at home—they’ll only weigh your bag down and increase risk of theft.
Bring Enough Money
How much you want to spend varies from person to person. Your group leader can help you determine how much money on average you should budget per day. Keep in mind how many souvenirs you plan on purchasing, but also keep in mind that most of your meals are covered in your package–you’ve already paid for them!
As far as what kind of money you can bring, the most efficient option is to bring your debit card or ATM card to withdraw won while you are in Korea. You can also order won at your bank beforehand. Be sure to let your bank know you will be going abroad so they do not freeze your account due to perceived suspicious activity. It’s also helpful to check with your credit card company to see if you can use your credit card in won and if there are transaction fees.
Get Travel Protection
It never hurts to be prepared for the unexpected. When you register for your Verso World Youth Day pilgrimage, we’ll send you a quote for several different travel protection options. We encourage you to choose the plan that best meets your needs. Many Americans’ medical insurance will not work overseas, and you never know what other unforeseen circumstances may arise between registration and the pilgrimage itself. With travel protection, you can have peace of mind knowing you’re safeguarding your investment!
Learn All You Can
Preparing for WYD includes preparing your mind! The more you know about where you’re going, the more exciting it will be. We’ll be sharing a lot about the various pilgrimage sites in Korea and its Catholic history as we help prepare you for this journey. The more you know about the fascinating history of South Korea, the more moving it is to see the Catholic faith lived and proclaimed publicly by the million people at WYD.
Pray and Journal
With all the practical preparation going on, it can be easy to lose sight of the most important preparation of all: preparing your heart for this spiritual journey! Head over to this blog post for some ideas on how to deepen your prayer life and cultivate your relationship with Jesus so you can be as open as possible to his love and guidance on your trip.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the beauty of South Korea for yourself, connect with youth from around the globe, and see the Pope!
Interested in taking a group? Reach out!
Want to join other young adults? Check out our open enrollment trip!
