Before You Go: Packing

Packing for a study abroad program of any length can be incredibly intimidating. How will you possibly survive in a foreign country without all of your personal belongings? The good news is that if you’re smart with your packing, you can avoid extra stress and expense. Check out these tips:

Pack light

Antoine de Saint-Exupery said it best when he said, “He who would travel happily must travel light.” Excessive luggage is an unnecessary physical burden that increases airline fees and puts you at greater risk for theft. Keep these things in mind as you decide what you’re going to take with you:

• You should only have one suitcase, one carry-on, and one personal item

• • You need to have a free hand at all times so you don’t ever have to set your luggage down to accomplish something (like opening a door), and bringing more than one suitcase will prevent you from doing so

• You can pack an empty duffle bag in your suitcase

  • • This will allow you to have an additional bag for souvenirs on your return flight

• You need to be able to carry all of your luggage without help for long distances

  • • You might end up walking a long way with your luggage in tow, and you should NEVER let a stranger handle your bags

• Airlines charge for excess baggage

  • • Most airlines will have a fee for every checked bag you bring

    • Every airline has different baggage limitations

• • • Make sure you know your airline’s size and weight limit for both checked luggage and carry-ons

• Some items are prohibited

  • • Check the TSA website for items that aren’t allowed in luggage

• You will most likely be able to purchase basic toiletry items abroad, but do research to ensure that what you need will be available

  • • If you have certain over-the-counter medications or health devices that you prefer, you might want to bring them with you

Be strategic with your carry-on

Because your carry-on is the only piece of luggage that you will have with you at all times, you should pack it accordingly. Be sure that you have these crucial items packed in your carry-on:

• Prescription medications

  • You should have enough to last at least a week should your checked luggage be delayed

• Wallet

  • You should have all money, credit cards, forms of identification, and valuables with you

• Clean outfit

  • In the event that your luggage is delayed, you will be incredibly grateful for the change of clothes

• Destination information

  • Make sure you have a flight itinerary for yourself, contact details for your program coordinator, and the address of your accommodation

• Toiletries

  • Pack all toiletries in a clear, quart-size bag and follow the 3:1:1 rule for liquids to comply with TSA regulations