Okay, let’s be really real for a second. Your experience studying abroad is going to be amazing. Whether you go to Rome for a week or Australia for a year; the sights you’ll see, places you’ll go, food you’ll eat and people you’ll meet are going to exceed your expectations. However, there are a few things to keep in mind as you prepare for your trip to help make your experience THAT much better. Here are my “dos, don’ts and how-tos” of studying abroad; aka little nuggets of wisdom to help make your experience great!
“Pack lighter, go further.”
Wise words that deserve an entire devoted section of this article. These are possibly the most important words you should consider while preparing for studying abroad. Yes, I know, it’s hard to pack light! You’re leaving the country! You need all of your comfort knickknacks, your boyfriend’s baggy sweatpants and two different outfit combos for each day. False. In fact, this would be a hard DON’T.
“Pack lighter, go further” is a good motto to keep in mind throughout your whole studying abroad experience. Other countries DO have clothing stores and equivalents to CVS and Duane Reade. Don’t feel the need to pack for all occasions, stuff your bag with big bottles of conditioners and trot along all ten pairs of your jeans. Check your destination country’s weather. Bring a raincoat to England but buy a pair of wellies there. Wear your high knee boots on the plane, and top off your airport ensemble with that big winter jacket – don’t try to stuff it into your suitcase.
Speaking of planes, remember to check the baggage restrictions of the airlines with which you fly. They aren’t all the same! To avoid the hassle, just follow that same motto. “Pack lighter, go further.”
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