The mantra of the international student is: avoid over packing at all toll. Some could complain about forgetting some items at home, but then it is always not as hard to find provisions when you have arrived than send things you do not really need back home (which will cost a lot of money) or worse, carry large and bulky luggage everyplace you go. Incidence of theft frequently happens due to the fact that a student gets wearied of transporting his/her luggage, puts them down, and then leaves them unaccompanied.

Students on study abroad programs should be specially heedful of their documents and identification, and any other significant papers that will establish their legal stay in the nation. Make sure that your passport and visa are firmly situated in your bag, ideally in an inside pocket. You can also acquire a money bag to hold your airline tickets, money, travelers checks, credit cards, ATM cards, International Student Identity Card, Hostel membership card, and Travel Pass, and place it below your clothing. You should also take a Xerox replicate of everything crucial and keep it in an totally independent place.

Then comes the more stimulating part: packing your clothing. It is understandable that you desire to look good - after all, you are unattended in a different country and you want to be liked by the people as well as other international students on a study abroad program like you. But if you can do this by mixing and matching one 'formal' outfit, two pairs of long pants, 3 to 4 cotton t-shirts or blouses, 2 pairs of shorts, a skirt (for girls), and 3-4 polo shirts (for boys) - you are on the way to having the travel time of your life! You can even add a trendy bathing suit or bikini for swimming destinations on weekends. It is also essential that you partake in not run out of clean underwear and socks, so take at least seven pairs of each. A great hint is to bring dark colored apparel as dirt does not become instantly visible on them (sounds vulgar, but you will see...) and the most comfy pair of shoes you have for all the eternal backpacking and walking that you will do. Leave those killer stilettos in your closet!

You must also be aware of the weather of the country you are going to. Unforeseen changes in temperature could give you 'a cold', so bring medicines for common diseases. You should also need to bring sunblock, a light rain jacket, insect repellant, a hat, and a water bottle for outside jaunts and sightseeing. You could bring toiletries, however if you definitely need to diminish your cargo, you will be able to choose to purchase them when you arrive as virtually all things are readily offered in big cities. Female travelers who favour a specific kind of tampons or sanitary napkins should bring a months amount, and men should do the same with their shaving gels and razors. When you have packed what you think is crucial for you to live in a foreign country, try transporting your luggage for a few minutes and up and down some long and steep stairways. If you cannot transport it all without assistance, re-check and do away with the less significant things.

 
International Study Abroad program alums can be the finest information sources that you will find. If you happen to know a student, you might ask that student what else you would really need for your expedition. Always Remember that your luggage is your small-scale bit of home in the foreign city, so do your absolute best not to misplace any of it.

<< back  

Douglas L. Wilder
6440 North Central Expressway Suite 402
Dallas, TX 75206
phone: 214-741-4000
fax: 214-369-3590

Email : doug@dfwdwi.com

Contact Request Form