Studying abroad is a big commitment, yet an exciting commitment. There’s tons of emotions you will feel. It’s like balancing between tons of excitement and fear. Trust me know, I studied abroad and Italy and the pre-study abroad jitters hit me like a rock.
There’s sooo many things to look forward to. It’s going to be a memory that will still with you for life. With all that being scared, there’s a lot of pressure and a lot of things to think about. I wanted to create this study abroad packing list with items that are essential to take one thing off your shoulders.
I swear by this all-in-one adapter. I bought this exact one in 2016 which was the first time I ever backpacked Europe and still use the same one. It’s lasted me over 4 years and has been the best travel companion for all the 20+ countries I’ve visited since.
I’ve gone through multiple adapters and find this all-in-one adapter to be the best one I’ve ever used. I love that it has two USB ports so I can charge multiple devices at once. It’s 100% better than having to hold every adapter individually. I would pack at least 2 for your study abroad trip, just as a safety net in case you end up losing one!
My Hydro Flask Water Bottle is my FAVORITE travel companion. Mostly because I love drinking water, but also because it keeps my water COLD for hours. Which is a must in scorching, hot weather when you’re sight-seeing.
I’ve gone through a number of water bottles, and this exact Hydro Flask with this cap is absolutely leak proof and keeps beverages cold up to 24 hours. Another alternative is the 32oz Nalgene Water Bottle, which is good for its size– only downside is that it doesn’t keep water cold.
This is one that can easily slip your mind, but it definitely is a necessity. Whether you’re walking to class, randomly sight-seeing in your city or traveling, nothing is worse when there’s a torrential downpour happening. I always carried my raincoat with me everywhere I go.
For when you’re traveling, doing day trips or just sight-seeing around the city. You’ll want a high-quality backpack that’s big enough to carry all your day needs, lightweight and slash proof to avoid petty theft. I love North Face Backpacks for day use, weekend trips or just for going to class.
Anti-theft backpacks that have built in clasps are really awesome, but be sure when you’re on the subway or bus that you put your backpack on the front of your body. This might be a foreign concept to you, but do it or risk getting stuff stolen!
There is seriously nothing worse than traveling with a dead phone. A dead phone means you can’t take pictures, look at Google maps or send important messages. Although it’s fun to explore with no technology (which I actually recommend), it does get tiring.
A portable charger is a must. I would invest in a high-quality portable charger that has multiple charging ports and long battery life. If you’re going for a more portable charger, then this compact power bank does the job great!
Your passport (obviously), visas if necessary, travel insurance, photo IDs and any other travel documents your program may require!! Make photocopies of all important documents just in case you run into any problems abroad (I.e. losing your passport).
Having photocopies of all your important documents will make the process much easier if you do run into that problem. Keep multiple copies in different places.. A folder under your bed, in your underwear drawer or just your desk drawer!
Do not, I repeat DO NOT, bring shoes that you know give you blisters or are hard to walk in. I promise you’ll never wear them.
Instead, bring shoes you know are comfortable to walk in for long distances. While you’re traveling, you will walk A LOT, so do yourself a favor and invest in high-quality shoes that are comfortable for sight-seeing. Brands like Chaco and Teva are popular brands for walking sandals, which are perfect for hot weather. But also be sure to find a sneaker that you know is comfortable– Nike, Adidas, Asics, etc.
For hostel lockers, your checked luggage or just extra security on your day pack. Travel locks are a must. I prefer to get the locks with a flexible loop and dials rather than a lock with a key.
Make sure to bring any prescriptions you’re currently on for the entire duration of your time abroad: birth control, contacts, and any other prescriptions you have. I also like to bring a small pouch of cough & cold medicine, pain medication such as Tylenol or Advil, anti-diarrheal, anti-nausea and any other meds that come to mind.
There’s nothing worse than having to go to a pharmacy and them not having your favorite brands when you’re sick.
Note: If you’re bring prescription meds bring the prescription too! Occasionally immigration will check for this!
For plane rides, bus rides or just walking about the city. I love my Apple AirPods because they automatically connect to my iPhone and are wireless.
Obviously there’s a number of headphones and ear buds that exist, I imagine you already have a pair. Just bring them along!
And there you have it. 10 essential items you can’t go without during your semester abroad. I hope you find this list valuable and have an amazing time abroad!
Until next time!
XOXO,
Angelique ❤️
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