Sandals, wedges, dresses …the list goes on and on! After studying abroad this summer, I’ve learned that whatever you pack is literally all you’ve got. To avoid bringing too much or leaving something behind, , check out these packing do’s and don’ts!
Courtesy of www.loveisraeltours.com
Do pack “essentials”:
Your Seventeen Magazine collection and P90x package may be essential for you at home, but they aren’t so needed when you’re traveling. Items you must pack include:
-medicine: If you get a cold, have an allergic reaction or spawn a spontaneous headache, you’ll want to be prepared to tackle your problem quickly.
-a camera:Don’t depend on other people to take photos of you! Bring your own camera, extra batteries and a spare memory card so you can capture all your favorite moments.
-sunscreen: On my trip to Mykonos, Greece, the sunscreen was about 18 euro for a regular bottle (that’s about 22 American dollars)! Bring your own, it’s cheaper.
Courtesy of www.rei.com
-adapters and converters: You likely won’t be able to use your American electronics without adapters. Bring a few so you have no problem straightening your hair and charging your phone simultaneously.
-bathroom items: shampoo, conditioner, soap, lotion, contact solution…you get the picture! Find them cheap in your hometown and discard them abroad before you come home to make room for souvenirs.
Do bring multi-use clothes:
One of the biggest tips for saving space is packing outfits that can be worn in the day and in the night.. Bring your tops that would look cute with daytime jeans and a nighttime skirt so it’s one less outfit you’ll need to pack!
Do Google the weather:
While it may be summertime in the United States during the month of June, it’s winter in Australia. Google the weather of your trip’s location so you know whether to pack your suave leather jacket or leave it at home!
Do keep in mind you’ll go shopping:
Don’t forget about gifts and goodies! Try and leave some room in your luggage for the items you will be buying abroad.
Don’t pack too much:
I was allowed to bring one suitcase, one carry-on and a purse on my 28-day study abroad trip.
Paying an overage fee on your luggage isn’t the way you want to spend your money abroad. Keep your packing as light as possible and respect luggage restrictions.
Don’t pack a lot of shoes:
Try not to cry ladies! We do love our shoes but they take up room and weigh down your luggage. One pair of sneakers, one pair of daytime sandals and one pair of nightlife shoes should do it!
Don’t pack an outfit per day:
Renew, reuse and recycle! No one will judge you for being an outfit repeater. If your trip is 28 days, do not exceed packing 14 outfits.
Don’t pack “maybe” clothes:
You know those tops that you neglect but you think maybe you’ll feel inspired to wear them on this trip? Leave those at home. You won’t wear them and they turn into wasted space!
Not having to worry about overweight luggage or buying sunscreen made my study abroad experience smoother – and cheaper – than it was for other students. Remember to pack light, pack smart and have a good time!
For more study abroad tips, check out The Insider’s Guide to Studying Abroad in Europe!
Noelia Trujillo is a rising sophomore at the University of Florida majoring in Journliasm and Communications. After studying abroad in Spain and Greece for the first month of Summer 2012, she will be an active Living and Lifestyles writer for College Lifestyles. Along with her passion for writing, she loves to spend time with her family, make people laugh and be happy!
