Abroad
Ah, the thrill of studying abroad — new places, new faces, new experiences! It’s like the whole world is suddenly your classroom, and you’re ready to dive headfirst into the unknown. But before you take that leap, a little preparation is in order.
After all, you want to hit the ground running, not tripping over your unpreparedness. So, what exactly should be on your packing list? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Grab your luggage, and let’s get packing!
1. Jet-Lag Busting Methods
First on our list — a good night’s sleep. From jet lag to those jitters of being in a new environment, quality sleep can sometimes elude you during travel. This is hard enough if you’re just losing sleep on your holiday abroad, but when you’re trying to acclimate to a whole new country and culture long-term, missing out on those all-important first-week hangs because you can’t stay awake can be a huge issue.
That’s where the sleep patch comes in. Slap it onto your skin, and let it work its magic, helping you drift off into a restful sleep on time without tossing and turning relentlessly because it’s only midday in your home time zone.
Everything’s better when you’re well-rested, but traveling with tried-and-true methods for beating jet lag and adjusting to the local time zone can be a serious lifesaver when you’re starting your life over and taking classes to boot.
2. Personal Documentation and Then Some
Your passport and visa are your golden tickets to this exciting adventure. Make sure you’ve read all of the rules and regulations surrounding your visa and the country you’re traveling to. Even if you’ve heard anecdotally that you won’t need everything you’ve been asked to bring … bring it anyway. At worst, you’ll have some extra papers floating around your bag. At best, it can be a real lifesaver if you get an immigration officer who’s having a bad day.
It’s also a good idea to know exactly when and where you can get your student ID. That little card is more powerful than you think, offering discounts at museums, restaurants, and more. Keep these documents secure and always on hand. Plus, if you use your new student ID to apply for an ISIC card, your discounts will multiply and make all your adventures cheaper and easier.
3. Essential Tech and Adapters Galore
Even though you’re setting off for an adventure, you can’t completely unplug. So, don’t forget your chargers and a universal adapter to keep all your gadgets powered up. If you’re planning on traveling from your home base abroad frequently, a universal travel adapter can be a cost-saving and, in some instances, final-paper-deadline-saving addition to your gear!
It’s also a good idea to look into useful apps you can download to assist your travels. Translation apps, currency converters, and local city guides can come in super handy. Being tech-ready can make your transition to a new country as smooth as a well-crafted Instagram story. Trust us on this one.
4. Medications and Related Supplies
Now, let’s talk health. You’re embarking on the adventure of a lifetime, and nothing should slow you down — especially not a pesky cold or a minor cut. So make sure to pack a basic first-aid kit, complete with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.
If you’re on any prescribed medication, remember to bring enough to last you through the semester. If you can’t get that much medication prescribed in advance from your home doctor and pharmacy, check what comparable medications are available locally in your destination.
Do this as early as possible so you can discuss with your doctor what your options are if you need to switch medications to adhere to local standards or in case you’ll need documentation from your current doctor to maintain your prescription.
5. Comfortable and Versatile Clothing
On to the exciting part — clothes! When packing, think versatile and comfortable. A few pairs of jeans, a mix of short and long-sleeved tops, a couple of dressier options, and — don’t forget — comfortable shoes.
You’ll be doing a lot of exploring, and you’ll want footwear that can keep up. Also, consider the climate and cultural norms of your destination. Your clothes should not only be stylish but also practical and respectful.
6. Local Currency and International Credit Card
Ensure you have some local currency for those first few days. Ideally, get this cash before you even get to the airport, where fees and inflated exchange rates can really stack up. It’s also a good idea to have an international credit card for emergencies or larger expenses. Even if you don’t use it day-to-day, it’s comforting to know that you have the option if anything comes up.
Takeaway
With these essentials, you’re all set to embrace the adventure that awaits. Enjoy the unexpected, soak up the culture, learn, grow, and most importantly — have the time of your life.
Studying abroad isn’t just about the destination — it’s also about the stories you’ll bring back. So say yes to everything (within reason) and make sure you return home with some good ones.
