A semester in your favorite country is nothing short of a dream come true, and the time leading up to departure is so exciting. However, planning what to pack for four months abroad can get stressful. Nothing is easy about choosing what to bring in one checked bag, carry-on, and a personal item; it must be done thoughtfully and carefully.
Doing the Research
There are a few things to consider before making a detailed list of what to pack. First, you must consider the country and region in which you’ll reside and its societal norms. It’s important to be true to yourself but also to blend in and be respectful in a foreign country!
For example, I am studying abroad in Rome. While researching, I noticed that people in Rome tend to wear sweats, athleisure, or shorts less than in the United States. Also looking at temperature and how it can change throughout the months, I decided to pack a few more pairs of jeans and longer skirts than I initially anticipated.
What to Bring (That You May Not Have Thought Of)
Be sure to research things your host country may not sell or things that may be difficult to find. For example, I packed a good amount of zip-lock bags and dry shampoo because, after researching, I discovered that Italy sells these things differently.
I also suggest keeping a first-aid kit on you when traveling to your host country and around other cities. The kit should contain almost everything you need, such as band-aids, wipes, medicine, etc. While on the topic of health, if you have prescribed drugs, be sure you have enough for your time abroad and extra before you leave for your program.
What Not to Bring
It’s important to note that during your time abroad, you will have to do a lot of laundry if you plan on traveling during the weekends. In Rome, many washing machines are small, making it impossible to do a lot of laundry at once. So, there’s no need to overpack. Select only your favorites and pieces you know you will re-wear.
Some items, like chargers and toiletries, can also be picked up cheaply in local shops once abroad: for example, full-sized body wash, shampoo, conditioners, and many charging cables and cubes. A good rule of thumb for toiletries is to bring only about a month’s worth, giving yourself time to discover the best deals abroad.
Making It All Fit
The most challenging part is fitting everything you want to bring in a limited amount of bags. I used a checked suitcase and duffel bag, a carry-on, and my personal item backpack. I also left a lot of room in my checked duffel bag for anything I brought back from my time abroad.
My number-one piece of advice would be to buy large vacuum-sealed bags to pack clothes in. Although this does not help with the bag’s weight, it allows you more room. Also, roll your clothes instead of folding them! You’ll be amazed at how much more you can fit in your luggage, plus your clothes will have fewer wrinkles and stay more tightly pressed.
Utilize every space you can find. Pack your underwear or socks in a plastic bag, and then tuck them into the nooks and crannies of your luggage—even your shoes. You can also put things like a belts in the collar of your shirt to help the collar keep its shape.
Pack thoughtfully and carefully, and enjoy your time abroad!
Regan Reilly is a student at Rowan University and an ISA Featured Blogger. She is studying with ISA in Rome, Italy.