9 Things To Do Before Studying Abroad

By Madison White on December 30, 2015

Image via whitebird.org

So you’ve been accepted into a study abroad program, congrats! Now what?

9. Notify banks/credit card companies.

Before you leave the country, it is absolutely vital that you notify your banks and credit card companies (or any other trackable monetary device). I’m going to say it again. Before you leave.

I don’t think anybody wants to land in a foreign country, track down an ATM, and realize that they don’t have money because their accounts are frozen. Yikes.

8. Check luggage fees.

Along with how much luggage weight you’re allowed to take on the plane, make sure you check what liquids/other questionable items are acceptable. This is basic plane etiquette, but especially important when traveling overseas.

You don’t want to be rushed onto your flight only to have half your luggage confiscated in security.

7. Research the weather.

It’s highly likely that you’ll be in a totally different climate, so be prepared for what the weather calls for. Because my location was in the UK, I took more rain protective things than I usually wear in the U.S.

Also, make sure you are prepared for the entire season that you’re staying. Depending on the country, it might change drastically and you probably don’t want to be stuck buying a whole new wardrobe. Which leads me to my next point …

6. Narrow your closet.

It’s a lot harder than it seems. Hopefully, with a little weather research, you’ll be able to predict your future weather conditions. When packing, make sure to bring the essentials and not much else.

Basic patterns and colors are perfect for layering and easily styled. Taking a couple scarves is always an easy way to spice up an outfit too. And you’ll probably be walking more than normal, so leave the stilettos at home.

5. Take a bit of home.

My university recommended that you bring a small something that reminds you of home in case of homesickness. They say that some familiar laundry detergent works well or a favorite candy or gum. Having something to remember home by is always a wise decision when traveling abroad.

4. Bring a deck of cards (or something similar).

Now, you may be super outgoing and have no problem meeting people, but for some of us, it isn’t that easy. Take something that will be an easy conversation starter like offering to play a card game or wearing a band t-shirt.

My penny board is how I made most of my friends in college. It’s much easier having an object start the conversation for you than vice versa.

3. Memorize phrases/buy a language book.

If you’re traveling to a country that speaks a different language that you aren’t totally familiar with, it is always a good idea to memorize some common phrases in that language. Sayings like “Please,” “Thank you,” and “Where is …” are always handy to have.

For all the other words you may not know, buy a pocket dictionary to help you out. (Sometimes even if your country speaks English, it is helpful to research a bit of the slang beforehand so you don’t feel totally out of the loop).

2. Make copies of important documents.

You’ll be taking important documents with you, but it’s also a good idea to take copies of them too. In fact, take the originals and one copy with you and leave another set of copies in an accessible place at home.

It is best to make copies of your passport, driver’s license/ID, and university acceptance. Also, it’s probably a good idea to write down some important bank information and put that in a safe place.

1. Be prepared to be unprepared.

With any type of travel, it is inevitable that things can and will go awry. But don’t fret! Just be aware that not everything will go perfectly, you might have to make up some stuff on the fly, but it will all work out in the end.

Know ahead of time and reassure yourself of where you are and what you’re doing. A level state of mind will get you out of any sticky situation and help you enjoy the wonderful adventure you’re on rather than worrying about every detail!

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