So you’re going to be living abroad for four months and have only two suitcases and a carry-on bag for all of your stuff. The NYU site representatives tell you to pack lightly and leave extra room in your suitcases for souvenirs. For me, and most women I would imagine, packing this lightly seems nearly impossible. You’ve got all the necessities: clothing, toiletries, power converters, chargers, a camera, money, personal medication, and your passport. What else do you need?
• Favorite Brands
Have any favorite brands of makeup? If you have room, throw in a couple extra sticks of your favorite lipstick, or bottles of liquid foundation. This is especially important for those traveling to non-English speaking abroad sites (you won’t have to hassle reading labels written in a foreign language). Though it is recommended to buy things like hair accessories and cosmetics at your site, packing some familiar brands can make you feel more comfortable and often save you quite a bit of money.
• Pictures from Home
Because of costly international cell phone plans, it is hard to keep in touch with relatives and friends back in the states. A few pictures to put on your desk or set next to your bed will make your living space more homey and cozy. These pictures may even remind you to send them an email from time to time. Remember: don’t pack too many and check with the Housing guidelines before taping or nailing pictures to the walls!
• Journal
Even if you are not a journalist or writer by any means, keeping a diary or blog is a must. There is no better way to remember and document the names you will learn and the places you’ll see. People who studied abroad in the past and didn’t keep a journal always regret not writing about their journey. Whether you purchase a ninety-nine cent notebook or a custom made diary, capturing the moments of studying abroad can change your life. A journal can easily be slipped in your carry-on without taking up too much room.
• Extra Underwear/ Socks
Let’s be honest: how often do you really do your laundry? Us girls can get away with wearing a shirt or dress more than once without a wash, but there are some garments we need to wash with every wear. Don’t waste valuable suitcase space on bulky laundry detergents and fabric softeners. Instead, pack some extra underwear and socks. Target, Aerie, and Victoria’s Secret always have affordable deals and sales for underwear. Purchase your laundry supplies at your study abroad site to save you extra space.
• A Towel & Shower Flip Flops
Depending on your study abroad site and if you are planning to travel (which many people recommend), remember that you may be staying in a hostel. Popular in Europe, hostels are similar to communal dorms where kitchens, lounges, and showers are shared among occupants. Hostels may appear to be inconvenient, however they are often less costly than a hotel room. For sanitary purposes, bring some shower flip flops and your own towel.
And remember…
Before you leave, settle all currency issues with your bank and cell phone concerns with your mobile carrier. Remember to put any liquids in a ziplock bag to avoid a possible mess in your luggage. Once you’ve packed (leaving extra room of course), the hardest part is over.