Part 1: Packing  

If you’re reading this, you're mostly likely about to embark on your study abroad program! This time last summer, I was simultaneously counting down the days and frantically making a list of everything I needed to do and get before I left. To save you some stress, I listed the most important items—and a few extra tips for your travels. 

Must Bring: 

Your Passport ID & Any Additional Travel Documents 

This seems like a no-brainer to list, but trust me, identification is one thing you cannot forget! Take it from my coworker who got her passport stolen right before her program—it’s essential. I also made copies of both items and left one at home and took the other with me. Check out the GEO Student Guide to learn more about preparing for customs and immigration. Be sure that you also have any additional visa information if this is needed for your program and your student ID (some program locations have museums and sites that offer discounts to students). 

Medication for the Entire Duration of Your Trip 

If you take prescription medication, make sure you have plenty of it. I recommend bringing extra just in case. You will not be able to access certain drugs in other countries, so save yourself the stress and request extra doses prior to your trip. You can learn more about bringing prescription medication abroad through GEO’s Student Guide. 

A Broken-In Pair of Shoes

 Buying new shoes for an exciting trip seems awesome—until you end the first day with sore feet and blisters that haunt you for the rest of your walking tours. I made sure to break in my Reeboks for a few weeks. I also brought two different walking shoes to alternate between. This gave my feet a break and added some variation to my outfits. 

Anything You Might Use to Sleep

Getting your rest is SO important. If you get enough sleep, you will have the energy to enjoy your trip. Don’t shy away from bringing your favorite childhood stuffed animal or a comfortable t-shirt that reminds you of home. For long travel days, packing a travel pillow and eye mask can help you get some shut-eye on a plane or train.  

Credit, Debit, or Currency Cards That Allow You to Exchange Money

 When I arrived in Berlin, I happily inserted my card into an exchange machine and it promptly spit it back at me. The card I had was not compatible for money exchange, so I had to rely on my friend to exchange currency. Although I was able to use Apple Pay and my card in many places, most of the markets and clubs we went to were cash-only. You should also look into the best way to get local currency when you arrive. The ATMs in airports usually offer better exchange rates than currency exchange kiosks in touristy areas. Before you go abroad, contact your bank and credit card company to find out about: 

• Whether your card will work internationally
• Fees for ATM withdrawals abroad
• Fees for purchases made in foreign currencies 

Some banks also require you to notify them of your travel dates to avoid having your card blocked for suspicious activity. For more information on banking and budgeting abroad, check out the GEO Student Guide. 

A Proper Cellphone Plan (That Won’t Break the Bank) 

All students are required to have a cell phone plan abroad. You might not realize it until after you return from your program, but international cellphone usage without the proper plan will add up. Before you set foot in your program’s country, figure out what cellular plan will work best for you. International roaming rates are expensive, and you need to be able to call, text, and use Google Maps while abroad. Many US phone companies offer international plans that you can opt into for the duration of your trip—check with your provider before you leave. However, a more affordable option may be purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival. You can usually find SIM cards at the airport, major train stations, or convenience stores. If you want to set up a plan before you arrive in your host country, consider international eSIM services like Airalo or Holafly.  

An AirTag and a Lock for Your Suitcase 

This anecdote is not meant to scare you away from checking a bag—but two different airlines lost the luggage of a friend on my program and our faculty leader. Our whole class became quite fond of the button down he was forced to wear for the entire first week. My friend, on the other hand, was able to buy a few essentials and get reimbursed. We also shared clothing for a few days and pretty much looked like the same person. She had an AirTag on her suitcase, which she used as proof of loss and to help the airline track the last-known location. 

Image

Part 2: A Few More Tips 

As you create the rest of your packing list, think about where you will be traveling. In major cities, it is likely that you can purchase any items you forget or don’t want to lug to a different country. Some items may even be less expensive—I wish I had left more room in my suitcase for the large amount of clothing I bought for only a few euros. 

I also recommend making a capsule wardrobe. This doesn’t mean one pair of pants and a matching shirt but rather a few of each clothing item that can go together. Look at the weather for the month you will be in the country to figure out what climate you should dress for. If you need inspiration, watch this video to follow along with Sarah as she packed for spring in Italy. 

A secure bag for your valuables is also a must. Many students used fanny packs or crossbody bags to carry their daily essentials and help prevent pickpocketing. 

If this all seems like a lot to remember, follow the GEO packing list . As you start to prepare, get excited too! This is the time to look forward to what is to come. Best of luck!  

Stephanie Jersey, Global Programs and Operations Assistant