Study Abroad Packing Tips

Studying abroad while in college can be a very rewarding experience for students. You're leaving the USA, maybe for the first time, or maybe you've traveled overseas before. Whatever your destination may be, make sure you've packed everything you'll need so you won't have a panic attack on the plane when you discover you forgot your iPod! Here are some study abroad packing tips that you may find helpful.

Clothing - Take at least a week's worth of clothing (tops, bottoms, shoes, under wear, socks, a comfortable pair of walking shoes, jacket/hoodie, flip flops, rain jacket, bathing suit, pajamas, a nicer outfit for special events, a watch, etc.) Pack clothes you can easily layer. You should be able to wash every week, so there's no need to take your whole closet with you. Keep the luggage light. This may seem "obvious" but know what season it is where you're going and what the weather is typically. Don't pack all shorts and tank tops for a county who's seasons are opposite from the US.

Toiletries - You can buy many of these when you get to your destination so you won't have to pack them or have to worry about air travel rules on some products. Pack enough of your "necessities" to get you by until you can go shopping.

Travel maps and info - If you aren't familiar with where you're going or aren't 100% fluent in the country's language, pack your travel and language books, maps included.

Electronics - Pack your laptop along with its charger and any CDs, DVDs, hardware, software you may need. Having USB jump drives and SD cards are a definite plus. Other electronics you'll want with you are: alarm clock, your iPod/MP3 player, and some countries you'll need an outlet adapter and/or voltage converter.

If you wear contact lens, take enough to get you through your study abroad trip. Also take along your prescription glasses, you never know when or if you may need them. Oh, and don't forget sunglasses!

Check beforehand to see if you're required to bring your own linens. If they are provided for your, leave yours at home.

Prescriptions - You'll need to check with the country and regulations first! If it's okay, take enough of your prescription for your entire stay.

As you're packing, keep in mind you'll probably accumulate twice as much while you're studying abroad and traveling. You probably also don't want to tug around 4 suitcases either. Again, pack light!

Lastly, I'm sure you'll want to pack a few photos of your family and friends to take with you.