10 Unnecessary Study Abroad Items Found On Suggested Packing Lists

By Gretchen Kernbach on January 31, 2016

Studying abroad can be fun, exciting, and adventurous. However, the time before the trip is stressful. Depending on where the trip is, the things you bring will differ. A common mistake for students is over-packing rather than packing too little.

We all know the basics: shoes, socks, shirts, etc. But when you do a Google search of those online lists for packing, many of them list unnecessary things. The truth is, you will only wear/use 50 percent of what you bring. Between a long plane ride and a cramped living space, it is better to pack light.

Here is a list of what not to bring.

1. Books

You may think you will have a lot of free time, but remember you will be doing school work. Chances are your teachers will assign books to read. In reality, your time will be spent reading those than the ones you brought.

Regarding your suitcase, would you really be able to fit big, boxy books? The space they occupy replaces other room for more important things. Choosing between shoes and books? Shoes win.

Instead of inconvenient, hardback books, bring some magazines. If you really think you are going to read something for pleasure, magazines are lightweight and flat. Putting them at the bottom of your suitcase will save so much more space and keep the baggage light.

Although the Harry Potter series is a must-read, it is not a must-bring.
Image via barnesandnoble.com

2. Sheets/Linens

Not sleeping in your own bed can be uncomfortable for some, as the fear of bed bugs is common. And for those of you, your imagination leads you to believe someone was murdered in those sheets. Keep in mind, though, the members of the family you are staying with are normal, regular people. They like their sheets as clean as the next person.

If you are living in dorms or an apartment, wait to buy linens. They take up unnecessary space and are available in all countries. You can find pillowcases and sheets anywhere.

Instead of bringing an entire sheet set, if you want security, bring your own pillow case since your face will be resting on it. But that is it. You may be considering a homey blanket of yours, but that will probably take up even more space.

The main point here is to wait. If you are staying with a host family, they will provide you with bedding. Otherwise, wherever you are studying, check with the program beforehand to see if bedding will be provided. Then plan accordingly.

3. Umbrella

Yes, it will rain, but consider bringing a rain jacket instead. Even if the umbrella is foldable, think saving space. All you have to do instead is put on your hood.

Another point, in between class and site-seeing, carrying your umbrella will be a pain. Chances are you will lose it. It really is just an unnecessary item that will be a nuisance.

4. Expensive Camera

Mentioning nuisances, carrying around a chunky, pricey camera fits the description. A camera will take up space not only in your bag, but also your backpack. In between classes you might see some beautiful sites, but if you capture them and then leave the camera somewhere, it is useless.

When studying abroad it is never a good idea to bring something super expensive. One forgetful move, and say goodbye to hundreds, maybe thousands, of dollars.

Instead, just take pictures on your phone. That way it is one less thing to manage.

5. Expensive Jewelry

The same concept about an expensive camera: high-end jewelry is not worth bringing on a foreign trip. The likelihood of losing it is too great. You shouldn’t feel the need to wear a luxurious necklace to class anyway.

Even though jewelry does not take up a great deal of space, the main reason you should not bring it when studying abroad is the chance it gets lost or stolen.

6. Hair Appliances

Keep in mind when you are studying abroad, electric converters are usually needed. And if you are too lazy to get one, your straightener will likely burn out, or your hair dryer will explode.

You may think with a converter, everything will be okay. But in some cases, your hair appliances may still not work. Your best bet is to buy whatever you need wherever you are studying. That way it is guaranteed to work.

Nate Nault, from thestudyabroadblog.com, claimed his electric razor worked fine when studying abroad. So, maybe boys do not really need to worry about this category.

Try to simplify your hair appliance use. If you must use them, limit it to one.
Image via supercouponlady.com

7. Full-Size Toiletries

First of all, toiletries are recommended to bring. However, pay attention to “full-size.”  These items, like shampoo, conditioner, and soap, can add unnecessary weight to your luggage. When you carry these sorts of huge bottles, they also take up valuable luggage space.

When you get to wherever you are going, there will be comparable products that get the same job done. People all over the world wash their hair; it might not be Pantene, but it is the uniform concept.

8. Game Consoles

You are there to study and see the sites, not sit in front of a screen. Although it may be a fun way to pass the time, it takes away from being in a new place. Chances are, you will be occupied doing new things and meeting new people. Therefore, it will just sit around.

A game console is one of the worst things you can pack. It can break on the plane ride, and takes up a huge amount of space. When you add in the cords, controllers, and games, it can make up its entire bag.

9. Lots of Cash

Carrying around loads of money can make you a target for pickpockets. Wallets are vulnerable to being lost — it happens all too often. Also, juggling the currency rates can be difficult.

Paying with a credit or debit card is easier on everyone.

10. A Relationship

Physically this will not be packed, but, mentally it will. Facing reality, you will be gone for an entire semester — months. Being in a relationship has the potential to hold you back from doing new things. If you are not serious, then consider leaving the relationship.

Being separated for a long period of time will no doubt cause you to miss you partner. When you miss someone, a Facetime date might be in session. However, it will most likely cause you to miss out on a fun opportunity.

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