Packing Tips for International Study Program
The first tip is to research the destination based on the time of year you will be traveling so you can dress appropriately according to the weather. During colder seasons, this may require heavier clothing which will cause the suitcase to weigh and cost more so plan ahead for this and try to find deals for saving money on baggage. It is also important to check out the customs and traditions of the country so you can avoid offending anyone accidentally through inappropriate dress. The agency you are traveling with should be able to provide guidance in this area based on their experience and knowledge.
If you are participating in the high school summer abroad programs which last a couple months, be sure to have a complete list and supply of medications and drugs that you will need. It is easier to have these on-hand rather than have them shipped and wait until they can get through to you at the host’s home. Documentation is necessary in case there are questions when going through customs and help with replacing meds if something happens while you are away from home. Avoid bringing anything that is in liquid form and talk to your doctor if you need special accommodations made or scripts changed/updated to account for your upcoming trip.
The most important tip about packing is deciding where to put certain items like important papers, money, electronics and how to ‘mark’ your bags for easy identification. The baggage carousel at an international airport can be a busy place so buy luggage with a unique color or attach a large, bright or bold ribbon (or something similar) to the handle so it doesn’t accidentally get grabbed by someone else. Since there is always a risk of the luggage getting misplaced or lost, carry all important items with you including passport, meds list, chargers, personal items and money with you in a carry-on bag. These items cannot be easily replaced and they are your best way of getting through the airport and connecting with the host family who should be able to help with any short-term issues. Lastly, traveling away from home as a teenager can bring about homesickness so pack special mementos such as pictures, blanket or cuddly stuffed item that you can have on the plane and in your personal space where you will be staying.
For longer options such as the gap year travel programs or year-long foreign exchange student studies, it is a good idea to pack for a couple months since you will be able to wash things. If you purchase things during your stay, have them shipped home before you leave so they don’t have to take up room in your suitcase and cost you more with baggage fees. There is nothing more exciting than taking a trip where you can make new friendships, learn a different language and see for yourself how unique the various cultures are in everything they do. Make it even better by making a list of what you plan to pack and work with the agency to ensure there are no restrictions or prohibited items that need to be left at home.
If you are participating in the high school summer abroad programs which last a couple months, be sure to have a complete list and supply of medications and drugs that you will need. It is easier to have these on-hand rather than have them shipped and wait until they can get through to you at the host’s home. Documentation is necessary in case there are questions when going through customs and help with replacing meds if something happens while you are away from home. Avoid bringing anything that is in liquid form and talk to your doctor if you need special accommodations made or scripts changed/updated to account for your upcoming trip.
The most important tip about packing is deciding where to put certain items like important papers, money, electronics and how to ‘mark’ your bags for easy identification. The baggage carousel at an international airport can be a busy place so buy luggage with a unique color or attach a large, bright or bold ribbon (or something similar) to the handle so it doesn’t accidentally get grabbed by someone else. Since there is always a risk of the luggage getting misplaced or lost, carry all important items with you including passport, meds list, chargers, personal items and money with you in a carry-on bag. These items cannot be easily replaced and they are your best way of getting through the airport and connecting with the host family who should be able to help with any short-term issues. Lastly, traveling away from home as a teenager can bring about homesickness so pack special mementos such as pictures, blanket or cuddly stuffed item that you can have on the plane and in your personal space where you will be staying.
For longer options such as the gap year travel programs or year-long foreign exchange student studies, it is a good idea to pack for a couple months since you will be able to wash things. If you purchase things during your stay, have them shipped home before you leave so they don’t have to take up room in your suitcase and cost you more with baggage fees. There is nothing more exciting than taking a trip where you can make new friendships, learn a different language and see for yourself how unique the various cultures are in everything they do. Make it even better by making a list of what you plan to pack and work with the agency to ensure there are no restrictions or prohibited items that need to be left at home.
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