As exciting as venturing out for a study abroad program can be, the preparation process can be overwhelming.
It can be difficult to know how to fully prepare for your adventure away, especially if it is for an extended period of time, such as a whole semester or year.
Luckily, we have a few tips to prepare you for jetting off to the other side of the world and having the experience of a lifetime.
Packing
This can prove to be one of the most difficult challenges before you leave. Chances are you want to look your best during your time abroad and this can be hard when you have a limited amount of space in your suitcase. The key to saving space in your suitcase is layering, especially if your program lasts for months. Take along items you can wear when it’s warmer out and throw on a cardigan and scarf with when the temperature begins to drop. Rolling instead of folding your clothes can add more room in your suitcase as well. Bring versatile outfit choices that you can mix and match, so you won’t feel like you’re constantly wearing the same outfit over and over. Be sure to bring comfortable outfit choices for when you do extra traveling, especially shoes. Traveling in big cities means tons and tons of walking, so be sure to bring something you can look and feel great in.
It is crucial to check the suitcase weight limits and to know how many bags and carry ons you can have on the plane. This can vary between airlines, so be sure to do your homework before arriving at the airport.
It is also important to note restrictions placed on carry-on luggage. Most won’t let you have full sized containers of shampoo, conditioner, etc. for example.Money
The traveling which comes with study abroad can takes it toll on your bank account, so it is crucial to save up as much money as possible before you leave. Set up a separate savings account at your bank to keep money away from the rest of your funds. This way you aren’t tempted to spend your hard earned money with just a simple swipe of a debit card.
You can also earn a little extra money by having a yard sale or selling old gems on eBay. Who knows, your unwanted items might add up to a weekend excursion.
It is important to contact your bank and credit card companies before you leave to let them know you will be abroad. If they see international activity on your account, it might raise a few eyebrows if they are not given advanced notice. Be sure to find out what your bank charges for international transactions as well and have your online banking set up so you can easily access your account and keep tracking of your spending (even though it will often times be painful to look at).
Doing a currency exchange before you leave can be beneficial and save time as well. There can be a larger fee placed on exchanges while you’re already abroad, so doing the exchanges beforehand might save a few pounds or euros.
Language
if you are traveling to a foreign land that is not an English speaking country, it can help tremendously to brush up on at least a few keys phrases. It could very likely save you when you get lost and need directions or help. English is often times called “the universal language,” but not everyone you come across will know English.
Rosetta Stone can be beneficial, but rather pricey, so visit a bookstore and to grab a few language books and get to reading. The pocket sized language phrase book is almost a must have to throw in your bag to keep with you at all times. There are also podcasts available which allow you to hear the language and have a better understanding of it as a whole.
Saying Goodbye
Leaving friends and family behind can be one of the hardest parts of studying abroad. Chances are it is the longest time you have spent away from home and the adjust can be hard. Be sure to get friends and families addresses to send letters and postcards. If they have Skype, find out their screen names so you can set up “skype dates” while you’re away. There are phone apps available such as “What’s App?” to help you easily stay in touch with friends and families back home. Just be sure not to forget about the time difference.
Other Quick Tips
• If you are studying in Europe and plan on traveling to several different countries, investing in a Eurail pass may be beneficial financially. There are several options to find which best suits the amount you want to travel.
• Take advantage of discount airlines such as RyanAir. I once got from Germany to Ireland for less than 40 euros through this airline.
• Keep a travel journal to document your experiences, this will serve as a wonderful treasure to document the little things you will one day look back on.
(Feature Photo via We Heart It)