Master Packing List with Practical Advice to Stay Prepared, Stylish, and Stress-free During Study Abroad.
Written by Kaelie Piscitello
For many college students, studying abroad creates a dream semester with fantastic opportunities to learn outside of the classroom, gain unique field experience, and see the world. Everyone works hard trying to save more spending money and wonders about the new friends they’ll meet in a few weeks. Students return home each semester the experience of a lifetime.
Fall study abroad students will soon depart, and they’ll all ask themselves the same question: “how do I pack enough stuff into one suitcase to last me all semester?” While packing everything seems daunting at first, study abroad students should remember the essentials so they don’t worry need many items once they arrive.
Clothing
Research the fashion trends and pack for the climate in your host country. When I went to the United Kingdom, I had a picture in my head from the Hallmark Channel of British people wearing lots of cozy sweaters and jeans. American tourists often wear many sweaters and sweatshirts, whereas British people tend to dress up more.
In Europe, no one wears sweatpants to class and no one would dare to don jean shorts and a t-shirt, a favorite outfit for many Americans. For students jetting moff to Europe, prepare to dress your best each day. Bring comfortable clothes, but don’t expect to wear them in public. However, those looking to study abroad in East Asia might fit in with a cool t-shirt. It all depends on each student’s host country.
Above all, do not overpack the clothes because you will go shopping once you arrive. Bring basic layers to wear in multiple ways, along with a cute coat or two. Pack a pair of going-out shoes (may I recommend some tall, black boots?) and 1-2 nicer outfits for fancy occasions. If you plan to hit the town, consider packing a few light going out tops to save space, a pair of jeans, and two miniskirts. Then, rotate.
If you have fieldwork during your study abroad experience, prepare a professional outfit or two as well. Pay attention to the amount of time spent in the field and plan accordingly. For example, in the UK, I taught in a school one day a week, so I brought one teacher’s outfit. However, I taught in Taiwan full-time, so most of my wardrobe consisted of work clothes.
Toiletries
Most people do not bring many toiletries when moving abroad. Of course, if you have a preferred shampoo or skin products you know you could struggle to find overseas, then by all means, stock up ahead of time. However, ever country sells items such as soap, shampoo, and most makeup brands at the drugstore.
Health
Before leaving, remember to call your health insurance company and ask the following questions:
- What coverage do I have in other countries? Can I present my card, or will I need to file a claim for reimbursement after visiting the doctor?
- *Please know, some health insurance companies require their customers to pay out of pocket overseas and reimburse them later. If this is the case for you, prepare extra cash in case of any necessary medical treatments.*
- Can I have a travel extension on my prescriptions so I can pick up a surplus at the drug store? When asking this question, prepare to provide travel dates.
After asking all of these questions, call your doctor to refill prescriptions and ask questions about any travel vaccines you may need. Sometimes, doctors will refer patients to visit a travel clinic, so make an appointment several months before departure.
Travel Necessities
First and foremost, if you haven’t already, purchase a solid travel backpack. My backpack became my best friend during study abroad because I brought it on trips and to class. I like how my bag has several secret compartments for storing essential documents and more valuable items, such as laptop computers. so I recommend finding something similar.
Furthermore, buy a special bag for liquids in your carry-on bag. Some countries, such as the United Kingdom, require travelers to separate their liquids into a clear bag at security. Separate these items and place them at the top of your backpack to save time.
I also recommend purchasing a travel towel if you plan to stay in hostels. Many of them roll up and take up minimal room in backpacks. They can also double as beach towels! You can find cheap towels on Amazon.
Anything Else
Homesickness will happen! One of my most significant culture shock adjustments in Taiwan revolved around food. I missed my favorite yogurt and oatmeal packets. If you have a compact comfort food, such as oatmeal packets or a box of cookies, bring them!
I also got to Asia and had the hardest time finding red pepper, a staple in my cooking. Everywhere has salt and pepper, but if you favor a specific seasoning, bring it with you. You will thank yourself later.
Invest in a sturdy, reusable water bottle. You can buy a water bottle anywhere and save money on plastic bottles at the airport and train stations. Finally, remember to bring a camera to take pictures. Your parents and future self will thank you when you want to look back on memories and show everyone how you spent the semester!
