Whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally, deciding what to bring with you for a semester abroad is never easy. You either end up over-packing and not having enough room, or you accidentally forget that one important item. As an experienced traveler (lol jk I only did one semester abroad), I have accumulated a list of 13 items that are essential for a long journey ahead. None of these items are in a specific order but all can be easily found from Amazon, Bed Bath & Beyond, local drugstores, and other department stores.
Okay let’s get to the point.
1. Travel Guide Book
Purchase a book on the place you plan on studying abroad in. This is a great way to learn more about your destination and is perfect to pass time during the plane ride.
2. Journal/Coloring Book
Speaking of passing time, record your thoughts and even color with your very own journal/coloring book. Don’t forget to grabs a few pens and colored pencils too.
3. Travel Neck Pillow
With all the traveling you’ll be doing, buy yourself a comfy neck pillow. This pillow will become your best friend during long plane rides, trains, or buses. I purchased mine from Kohl’s that is a neck pillow
that converts into a small rectangular pillow (best of both worlds for only $20).
4. Portable Chargers
Even though I do not purchase an international phone plan while abroad, I always keep my phone on me. I solely use my phone for taking pictures and utilizing the apps that don’t require WiFi. When you’re out and about and can’t find an outlet, your portable charger will come in clutch- because no one likes to be stuck with a dead phone.
5. Over the Counter Medications
Your study abroad country most likely will not carry the same brand you’re used to, so purchase basic medication (Advil, Benadryl, TUMS) at your local drug store before departing.
6. Sunscreen/ Bug Spray
Along with medication, I suggest bringing your favorite brands of sunscreen and bug spray. Gotta protect your skin from the harmful rays and also from the little critters.
7. Luggage Locks
Keep your luggage safe and secure with TSA approved locks. Locks with codes are preferred because you only have to remember a small code rather than keeping track of tiny keys.
8. Luggage Scale
Always be on top of how much your suitcases weigh so you don’t end up paying a fee for overweight luggage. I got mine from Bed Bath & Beyond for only $10!
9. Passport Case/Holder
Keep your passport and boarding passes protected in a secure case. You don’t want to accidentally bend any of your passport pages like I did! :0
10. Travel Adapter
Get yourself a universal travel adapter because you never know what other countries you’ll be visiting while abroad (or even in the future).
11. 3oz Plastic Bottles
Put your shampoo, conditioner, or face wash in reusable 30z plastic bottles. I personally like having a small supply of my favorite products and they come in handy when going away for weekend trips.
12. Earbuds/Headphones
Block out the haters and put in your earbuds so no one bothers you when you’re listening to music, movies, videos, etc when traveling. Your preferred earbuds are 100x better than the ones airlines provide you for free (unless you like flimsy and low quality headphones).
13. Reusable Water Bottle
Last but not least, staying hydrated is key when traveling and wherever you go as a matter of fact. Save yourself money (and the environment) from buying multiple plastic bottles and purchase a good refillable water bottle.
I hope you found at least a few things from this list that will help you prepare for a semester abroad, if not, what are your favorite travel items to bring?
~Kristyn 🙂
justchileanhere 