Packing for study abroad can be an anxiety killer, especially
when you have no idea where to start. However, it’s not impossible. Here are
the questions you really need to be asking yourself:
What luggage and backpack are you bringing?
Suitcase: Check with the airline you’re flying with to see their
baggage fees and policies. Most likely, you will have at least one checked bag.
Be wise and pick a light weight suitcase. When I first studied abroad, my
suitcase weighed 25 pounds less than the required amount – meaning I had a ton
of room to sneak back home gifts for the relatives.
Backpack: This one is important because you will want to
backpack as much as possible during every possible free time. If you want to
save your back from any excruciating pain, you’ll need a backpack with support
yet is also light. And make sure big enough to pack up your life.
How long will you be traveling?
Intercessions or Summer: If you’re going to be studying abroad
for a month or less, unpack everything you’ve mentally packed. You won’t be
needing an iron to smooth out the wrinkles in your dress shirt or those heels
that make your calves look spectacular. I suggest: five pairs of pants, maybe
ten shirts, a sweatshirt or pullovers, sneakers, and active wear. Badaboom!
You will angry about having to lug the additional three
suitcases on your return trip home. If it’s your first time abroad, don’t think
that because you are leaving the country that you won’t be able to buy hair
product, or skin product that you’re in love with. You’re going to buy whatever
you need abroad.
Semester or Academic Year: If you’re traveling for an extended
period of time, the above rules apply, but bring enough to get you through the
first month. While you live abroad, you are going to recreate your routines
based on the customs of locals. Go with very little in your suitcase, and make
room in your mind for the endless memories you are about to make.
What’s the climate like in the destination?
Tropical: Flip flops, bikinis, swim trunks, sunglasses are a
must, and anything else you’d wear in the summer time. Be prepared for rain
also!
Rainy: Pull overs and rain-boots should be your Holy Grail
items. If you’re feeling up to it, pack an umbrella, but you can always buy one
there. Thick socks and waterproof shoes would be nice as well. Soggy socks are
a no-no.
Variant: Layers are the way to go! Tank tops and button up
shirts to wrap around your waist and pants that can be rolled up.
What’s the one item that you can’t live without?
Think non-electrical: For me, I had to bring my journal so that
I could read about my trip when I returned to the States. I would recommend
buying one abroad so the dates are in a foreign language, and you can feel ten
times cooler.
That requires electricity: My laptop is like my baby. I would
recommend getting a tune up before leaving and clearing out unnecessary files
to make space for the thousands of pictures you’ll be taking. Also, make sure
you invest in a great converter. I would hate for your laptop to fry.
Will you need medication?
Yes: Make sure you tell your doctor you will be studying abroad
in advance and get the right amount of medication you will need.
No: You should still hit up Walmart for headache and sinus
medication. You should always be prepared!
-MyKayla, study abroad
peer advisor and #HogsAbroad alum of the U of A Rome Center
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Don't miss your opportunity to study abroad!
Check out http://studyabroad.uark.edu/romecenter for more information on the U of A Rome Center. If you need help getting started with study abroad, take a look at this: http://studyabroad.uark.edu/getting-started/index.php
Don't miss your opportunity to study abroad!
Check out http://studyabroad.uark.edu/romecenter for more information on the U of A Rome Center. If you need help getting started with study abroad, take a look at this: http://studyabroad.uark.edu/getting-started/index.php
