When packing for a year abroad, talk to your host institution about what you should bring.You will need to bring clothing and shoes.If you have to compress your luggage, use vacuum bags.The packing depends on your preferences.If you bring money with you, it will convert into the local currency and you will be able to pay for things when you arrive.
Step 1: Two suitcases are required.
You can't take everything with you when packing for a trip abroad, but you need enough space for clothes and belongings to keep you comfortable.It is reasonable to bring two large suitcases, but three would be too many.You can also bring a daypack.The backpack can be used to carry essential items.You can use the daypack to bring things like a water bottle, phone, and money.
Step 2: Pack clothes that are comfortable and functional.
Depending on the climate of the place you are going, choose a wardrobe to bring with you.You should anticipate what you need and what will make you feel most comfortable.Pack your wardrobe accordingly, learn more about the climate and seasonal weather patterns of the place you are headed to.You can leave your parka and mittens at home if you go to the Caribbean.You won't have much use for shorts or flip-flops if you're studying in Switzerland.Don't forget the essentials.To keep laundry costs down, you should pack two weeks worth of underwear and socks.A pair of comfortable walking shoes is required.Depending on your personal preferences, some of what you bring can be determined.You could bring a set of pajamas or a t-shirt from your favorite band.Pack with flexibility in mind when packing.In both casual and professional situations, look for outfits that are appropriate.Pick clothing items that match well with other items.
Step 3: Pack culturally appropriate clothing.
You might be considered disrespectful for dressing in a slovenly manner if you are in another country.If you want to show that you are a mature, responsible person, choose clothing that is professional.If you fail to do so, you could end up packing a lot of clothing that ends up not being used.In the country where you will be spending your year abroad, do some research about cultural mores.If you want to go to a country, you need to know what kinds of clothing are acceptable.Don't wear sweatpants, hoodies, and flip-flops to class or work.If you have the chance to attend a formal event, bring at least one formal outfit.
Step 4: Leave it at home and think about what you can do without.
Keep your packing to a minimum.Evaluate each item one-by-one as you lay everything on the floor.Will I get a lot of use out of this?If you have three sets of shoes, you might say, "I could do with a single pair of shoe in order to pack lighter."
Step 5: Pack your laptop so you can use it.
You will want to keep up with the news, check your email, and stay in touch with your family and friends when you are abroad.You may need a laptop for school or work.Bring your laptop along with your other carry-on luggage if you invest in a padded laptop case.
Step 6: You should bring your phone and phone charging station.
If there is an emergency, you might need to contact people at home.You will want a portable way to communicate with your host family.Purchase an international phone plan ahead of time or buy a new sim card when you arrive.Even while abroad, you will be able to use your current phone.Students and young adults can get reduced plans in some countries.You can purchase a set amount of data, text messages, and call minutes, or you can top it up with additional capacity.There are shops and kiosks in the arrivals area that sell SIM cards.If an international phone plan is too expensive, consider using an app.
Step 7: Bring an electronic device for portable entertainment.
You won't be able to bring a lot of books because of the limited packing space.Bringing a reading device like a Kindle is a space-saving way to bring literature to other countries, not to mention your favorite music, films, or TV shows.If you want to listen to music and watch movies on your phone, bring a pair of high-quality earbuds.Tablets are great for drawing and playing games.
Step 8: Take pictures of your stay with a camera.
If you like your phone's camera, you could not bring a digital camera.If you want high-quality images, you should bring one along.When you pack your camera, make sure you have the memory card and charger with you.Don't bring a long-lens camera.Their size makes them hard to carry on your flight, and they are fragile so you should not trust them to baggage handlers.
Step 9: Invest in an electrical set.
Foreign electrical outlets are not the same as those in your country.They could have three or vice versa.If you want to use your phone, laptop, and other gadgets, you need to invest in an adapter set.As part of a package that contains all international electrical outlet standards, electrical adapter sets are usually sold.You won't need to buy sets for Japan, Nigeria, and Scotland.interchangeable pieces that you can use in each country are contained in the set.They can be found online and in many hardware stores.
Step 10: Pack accessories that are appropriate for the weather.
Pack some if you wear glasses or contacts.You will need sunglasses if you are going to a sunny location.You can either bring a quality pair housed in a hard-shell case or wait until you arrive to get some.Pack scarves and hats if the weather is cold.It is impractical to have a watch if you plan on getting a phone, but you could wear it abroad.You could pack a small makeup set if you like wearing makeup.
Step 11: Pack everything you need for your day.
Aspirin and a first-aid kit should be included in your travel pack.You should pack at least one month's worth of feminine hygiene products.Depending on where you are, you might want to pack a roll of toilet paper.razors and toothpaste are not allowed on flights.Ensure that whatever you pack won't cause a problem at the boarding gate by checking the latest travel guides for your nation's airport security bureau.Travel sizes of toothpaste and soap can be found at your local store.Don't pack a lot of these.A small case is enough.You can buy more things when you get to your destination.
Step 12: You should bring a folder to keep your documents safe.
Insurance forms, transcripts, and other university documentation are required if you are going abroad as part of a school program.Criminal background checks and related documents are required for you to work abroad.You might need a marriage certificate if you are married.A folder is a good way to organize this paperwork.Extra passport photos can be brought if you need them for a work permit or passport renewal.You should bring your international driver's permit if you plan on driving.You don't want to forget important documents if you ask your host institution what documents you need to bring.
Step 13: A padlock is needed to keep your belongings safe.
Keeping your bag secure requires travel-sized padlocks.Many hostels have lockers that you can use to secure your belongings.If you are in a hotel room with a padlock on your backpack, it is impossible to open it.
Step 14: You want to preserve the memories you make.
You can make great memories abroad by collecting pictures, tickets, and other scraps in a scrapbook.You can share your travels with friends and family when you return home.At most arts and crafts shops, you can get blank scrapbooks.
Step 15: It's easier to communicate with a mini dictionary.
For anyone going abroad for a year, travel-sized dictionaries are essential.Whether you are looking for a place to eat or just trying to say hello, you will be glad you have a mini dictionary.To write down essential words and phrases like "How much does it cost?" and "Where is the bathroom?", use the blank space toward the back of the dictionary.
Step 16: Homesickness can be prevented by bringing some souvenirs from home.
If you have a favorite picture of you and your family, you should bring it with you.Having small reminders about where you are from can help you avoid missing home during a year abroad.Don't give too much away from home.Most of your suitcase should be used for clothing.
Step 17: Exchange money for local currency.
Before you leave your home, you should visit your local bank and exchange your currency for the local currency you will be spending the next year in.When you pass through customs, you will be able to pay your taxi fare and make purchases of things you couldn't pack.If you misplace your wallet, put some money in it for easy access and reserve at least $100 along with your passport.You can put a passport/document holder around your neck if you invest in it.It's a good idea to keep your important documents with you.
Step 18: You can record your thoughts in a journal.
Traveling can inspire creativity.When you feel like relaxing, you need an outlet to focus your energy on.When you are on the road, journaling is a great way to reflect on your travels.
Step 19: Do not pack more than you need.
If you have room in your bag, leave it empty so you don't exceed the weight limit.Find out the weight limit for your plane.Make sure your bag doesn't exceed the limit.
Step 20: If you want to increase luggage space, use vacuum bags.
Special vacuum bags can be used to reduce the volume of your clothes.These are useful for packing large items.Pack bags reduce the size of your luggage, not its weight.
Step 21: You should bring a carry-on bag for your personal items.
You will be able to bring your carry-on bag with you on your flight.Make your trip more pleasant by packing your carry-on bag full of things.You might want to bring a snack bar, a book, or a phone.
Step 22: Do you need to pack your own sheets?
If you are spending a year abroad, ask your host institution if you need to bring your own sheets.If you don't, it's best not to assume one way or the other.The last thing you want to do is find out that you didn't need the bed set in the first place.Pack a rolled-up sleeping bag if you don't want to pack an entire sheet set.You can take it with you as carry-on luggage if it is small enough.
Step 23: When you're on your way to save room in your luggage, layer up.
If you are going to a cold climate, wear a big parka on the plane.At least one pair of gloves and a winter hat is required.It is possible to save space and weight in your luggage by wearing clothes on the plane.If you get uncomfortable on board, you can take it off and put it in your lap.