Packing for a Semester Abroad

Let’s talk packing.

bag via

I’m not sure anyone really loves packing. And if you do, well feel free to come visit me the next time I’m preparing to pack ;)

After a semester abroad, and traveling somewhere every weekend, I got prettyyyyy good at packing if I do say so myself. However, it’s a totally different game when you’re packing for 3 months. I’m used to packing for a year at school and through everything in bins and packing as much as I can in 2 cars. However, going abroad is a totally different game, you have to fit everything in 2 suitcases and 2 carry ons. It sounded like an impossible task.

As an obsessive over packer, it was a hard quest to conquer.

Tips: 

- I highly suggest bringing shower shoes, and not just to wear in your dorm/ housing. You're going to want to bring them when you go on weekend trips when you stay in hostels/hotels! 

- Bringing pictures and tape to hang on your walls always makes you feel a little closer to home! Print some walgreens before you leave! 

- Flashcards are something that I could not find anywhere. I use flashcards to study a lot so I really thankful to have brought some. Remember, it is called studying abroad!

- Bring more comfy clothes than you think! During the week when I was just attending classes I wore a lot of leggings and t-shirts! 

- A camera will be your best friend! Take more pictures than you think you should and make sure to get some pictures of you in them! I invested in a nice camera before college and I have used it more than I ever thought I would!

- My white converse were one of my favorite shoes. They go with everything, skirts, dresses, and jeans and were such a staple!

- Small plastic bottles (you can get them at target/drug stores) are perfect for weekend travels to put shampoo and conditioner in!

- I highly suggest limiting the hair straighteners or curlers you bring. I plugged in my straightener my first day and even though I had the right converters it burnt out! From then on out I never even used my straightener on most days. However, if you decide it's essential I suggest buying a cheap straightener or curler there! 

- Rain coat. Bring a rain coat. I've had the same one for 4 years now and I love it. 

- Small hand sanitizer (like the ones you can get at bath and body works) are perfect to throw in purses!

- favorite shoes for touring

- I love my large navy Long Champ for weekend trips. It's light, packable, and can fit a rain coat and my camera! 

What were some of your favorite things you brought abroad? 

Remember,

xoxo

S