Partaking in a study abroad program this summer could bring you into uncharted territory – in more than one sense. Especially if this trip will be your first international endeavor, you could be completely unsure of what awaits you. This could leave uncertainty about any preparations to make before embarking on your global adventure. Luckily, if you follow some of these helpful suggestions when packing, you can be ready to tackle the great unknown and have a blast overseas.
Perhaps the most difficult part of packing is the fact that you have to leave a couple of comforts at home. Even though capitalizing on this once in a lifetime opportunity is entirely exciting, the thought of being out of your element and immersed in various cultures this summer could be a slightly strange proposition.
While you would like to take all your safety blankets – from a prized collection of favorite reads to your childhood stuffed animal collection – that is not possible, and you have to mentally prepare yourself to leave treasured items behind. However, as you travel from country to country, you will likely be glad to have brought only the essentials to Europe.
That being said, how do students decide which items should make the cut and be tucked away in their luggage? There are a few simple strategies that travelers can use to eliminate any excess and determine which items they truly need during their international learning experience.
Avoid packing the superfluous
It can be easy to go into panic mode when packing, thinking that you can't live without any of your belongings. If this is the case, just take a deep breath and reflect on how much you use any given item while you're at home.
Chances are that anything students don't need on a regular basis will do them little good when they're overseas. This means that even if someone thinks that a scarf from two birthdays ago that still has the price tag on it would make a fantastic accessory, they should probably nix it from their lists.
Avoid looking overtly American
During your study abroad program, you want to have an authentic cultural experience, right? One of the best ways to get a realistic look into how a country operates is to play the part of a native, putting American habits on the back burner.
This includes your manner of dress. While articles of clothing such as sweatshirts, yoga pants and baseball caps may be acceptable gear to wear in the States, they are not normally seen on people in other areas of the globe. That's not to say that you have to go completely euro chic, but you may want to consider leaving this kind of loungewear in the U.S.
If travelers are of the mindset that this is an opportunity for immersion, they should ensure they blend in so that locals don't treat them like tourists. By opting out of American apparel, students can show they are not stuck in their ways and are open to absorbing a culture other than their own. Not to mention, they can avoid filling up their suitcases with unneeded articles.
Leave room for growth
It may be understated, but one of the perks of studying abroad is shopping. In Europe, you can grab goods that you have never even seen in the U.S. It can be incredibly enjoyable to explore street markets and boutiques, purchasing items that are not available at home.
Bearing this in mind, students should leave a little wiggle room in their luggage to accommodate any exclusive articles they want to bring back. Without allowing for some space, travelers may have to pass up things they want or check another bag when jetting home.