What do I Take with Me?

Whether you are studying abroad for two weeks, or for six months, the infamous question of “what do I take with me” is always a difficult one to answer.  I researched this topic and typically found that you should only pack necessities because you will more than likely purchase many goods while overseas.  Make sure to check your flights limitations related to baggage size and weight as you do not want your luggage to be denied access on the flight.  There are three basic categories in which you will need to account for before your travels which include bathroom materials, clothing, and essential extras.  Also remember when flying you can only pack 3 fluid ounce containers of liquids, gels, and aerosols on your flight as a security precaution.  These containers are typically associated with your bathroom materials, and should be placed in a clear zip-lock bag on top of your clothing in order to speed up the security process.  You should plan on purchasing most your bathroom materials when you arrive in the foreign country and should typically pack shampoo, a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, deodorant, feminine products, nail clippers, razors, a comb, contact lenses, solution, makeup, and medicines with a doctor’s note if available.  It is a good idea to make an appointment with your doctor or physician prior to department for a checkup, and to receive a doctor’s note for the medicines in which you require.  Do a little research into the average climate in which you will be living in prior to departure as it will have an immense impact on what clothing you pack.  Clothing should include but not be limited to socks, underwear, thermal underwear, long/short sleeve shirts, sweatshirts, jeans, shorts, a belt, skirts, workout clothing, swimsuit, coat, shoes, and cold weather clothing.  Again, clothing truly relies on the individual to do research on the regions climate but should also be aware not to wear clothing with affiliation to Greek life or domestic country, such as a home sports team, as it makes you an easy target for pick-pocketers.  Extra materials study abroad students should pack include over $500 in local currency, important documents, sunglasses, a cell phone, a laptop, chargers, camera, and a backpack.  Study abroad students may be able to think of other materials in which you should pack but this blog post is primarily a guideline.  Much of what students pack depends of the region of the world in which they will reside and I cannot stress the importance of conducting research prior to departing!