This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Hofstra chapter.
Traveling abroad, no parents, just you and a new environment is scary enough. What’s worse? Not being technically prepared! These gadgets and apps will ensure that no matter where you are you will be connected, feel secure, and ultimately allow you to have the most fun!
1. Portable Charger or Rechargeable Case
Unless it’s your lazy day often times you’ll find yourself trying to squeeze in school, social activities and tourism all into one jam packed day, which means you need to have a portable charger so that you can intentionally get lost and not worry!
2. Plug Convertor
Sadly the U.S. is one of the few countries to use the two prong plugs therefore if you need to charge anything such as your hair tools and technology then you better get a convertor for your country of travel before you leave otherwise you’ll be living life pre-Benjamin Franklin!
3. Polaroid or iPhone Lens
Yea you’re going to study abroad but we also know your friends expect extravagant photos on social media so getting a Polaroid or an attachable lens to your iPhone will give you the added edge for more likes and quality photos!
4. New Headphones
Not that anything is wrong with your current ones but it wouldn’t hurt to either invest in the expensive ones, for nights you want pure quiet, or get multiple cheap pairs for those just-in-case moments that you could lose your old ones or they suddenly stop working!
5. Free Wi-Fi Finder (Apple App Store)
If you are not on an international plan, like the majority of us, and are struggling with the whole SIM card minute’s thing then this free app will help you locate nearby locations that have free Wi-Fi so you don’t have to ask around!
6. OANDA Currency Converter
Remember exchange rates? If not you better! Remember you’re here for a whole semester and this app will do the work for you to figure out the conversion and even the price when credit card fees are taken into account which will ultimately help you decide whether you really need an item or not!
7. AirBnB
If you’re on the hunt for adventure please please please avoid ridiculously priced hotels! We’re working on a college budget here and AirBnB will allow you to stay in the comfort of someone’s home for less money and often times the host will be happy to give you advice and recommendations on the area.
~Safe Travels