38 Essentials for your study abroad. Studying abroad is a formative experience filled with excitement and the challenge of packing the right essentials. When I prepared to move to Ireland in 2022 for two years, I was overwhelmed with decisions about what to bring. What jacket would I wear? Would I need a power adapter? These questions felt existential.
Now, back home, I appreciate the practical items I packed, like a portable phone charger. Studying abroad broadens your worldview and teaches you not to take things for granted. Here are some essential items to bring when studying abroad based on my experiences and recommendations from other students, including the best packing cubes, travel-sized toiletries and travel adapters.
38 Essentials for your study abroad How to pack your luggage for studying abroad
Despite years of daydreaming and Pinterest scrolling, packing is simpler than expected with the right essentials, like compression packing cubes and a duffel bag. As a last-minute packer, I recommend quick decisions on items to avoid overthinking. Make a list of must-haves and maybes. Focus on the essentials and leave space for souvenirs.
Start by packing the musts: shoes, your laptop and a jacket. Avoid duplicates and unnecessary items. Roll your clothes to save space and gather everything in advance to ensure it fits and avoid last-minute panic. Our editors have additional packing tips to help streamline your process.
What you shouldn’t pack for studying abroad
While it is tempting to pack your entire wardrobe, I learned from experience that many items go unworn. As a fashion-forward Brooklynite, I found that my bold pieces didn’t get much use in Dublin. Save yourself the back strain and pack selectively. I suggest focusing on versatile neutrals with a twist like a black leather dress or balloon-style jeans. Layers are essential, and realistic expectations about weather are crucial.
Shoes should be comfortable for walking to avoid missing out on experiences as well. Only pack items not easily found at your destination, like specific cosmetics. Skip expensive travel-sized toiletries and use reusable mini bottles instead. That way you can refill them for any weekend excursions from full-size products you purchase when you arrive at your destination.
What you should pack for studying abroad
First and foremost, while health-related items like hand sanitizer, contact lenses, prescriptions and allergy treatments aren’t on this list, they’re crucial to bring as they’re different and sometimes less effective abroad. You also don’t need to bring local currency as credit cards are widely accepted, but you should always carry your student ID for discounts and a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. A camera is also nice if you enjoy photography.
Continue making your list with these are must-have travel essentials you’ll want on hand during your semester abroad, including items I wish I’d had from the start.
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