What you probably forgot to pack for your semester abroad

Posted at: 30 Oct 2019 | Student Affairs

Going on an exchange can sometimes be overwhelming (in the best way!). With so much planning to do it can be easy to forget some weird essentials when packing. Here’s a list of 5 things that should be in your suitcase that you might not have thought of.

1. Extra Passport Photo

This is my top essential for travelling! You’ll never know when you need an I.D photo for a card or official document, and it’s so much easier (and cheaper!) to have one than to try and find a place to get one.

2. An Umbrella

You’ll want to have an umbrella before you have to buy one. You don’t want to be showing up to class soaking wet because you didn’t have time to go to shops before!

3. Duffel Bag/Backpack

I highly recommend bringing a duffel bag as your carry-on bag. They’re perfect for weekend trips exploring places you’ve never been before, without having to pay expensive luggage fees. As a bonus it can also be a great way to carry groceries so you don’t have to keep paying for plastic bags.

4. Deck of Cards

Best thing to bring to a party! Playing cards is an international pastime, so no matter who you’re with there’s something to do. I cannot tell you how many times at the beginning of the semester my friends and I would be searching for a deck of cards, before someone finally found one.

5. Space

I promise, you do not need that extra sweater or pair of shoes. You’re going to find clothes and other things during your exchange that you love and will want to bring back with you and you’ll need the space. You don’t want to be that person at the airport rearranging bags and sitting on their suitcase trying to get it to close (I’ve been that person, learn from me please).

Don’t let packing stress you out. If you forget anything you’ll most likely be able to find a similar product abroad. Seriously though, save space because there will be so many things you’ll want to bring back with you at the end!

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