Packing for a trip is the most exciting part. The hotel is reserved, the flights are booked, all there is left is to pack a suitcase (or two) because the departure date is soon! But with your head swimming with ideas and plans for the adventure, items can easily get left behind. To avoid unnecessary purchases, a list of essential items can be useful.
Also keep in mind that luggage can get lost or delayed in transit. So you want to prepare for a situation like that as well, which means packing emergency items in your carry-on bag. This happened to one of my cousins when she studied abroad in Ireland. Her luggage was delayed for about a week. She may have had one emergency outfit in her backpack, but not enough to cover the time her bags were gone. So she had to do some shopping, but she didn’t want to spend a ton of money. Tourist shops had good deals like 5 shirts for $20, so she purchased those. During the time she was waiting for her bag, the kind people of Ireland offered her money because they thought she was homeless! I tell that story not to scare you, but to illustrate it is a common occurence. Plus it’s funny!
Packing for study abroad can feel more stressful than packing for a Spring Break trip. After all, you have one suitcase to fit your life inside for the next few months. Unless you already live a minimalistic lifestyle, taking your whole closet is not an option. So, What Should You Take on Your Study Abroad Adventure? This Ultimate Guide Covers the Three Most Important Pieces of Luggage and The Most Essential, Basic Items to Pack for Studying Abroad.
I’ve also included a few packing tips. In addition, you can access a free downloadable PDF version of the packing list at the end of this article.
Luggage
You can’t go anywhere without the proper bags to carry and keep your stuff safe! Luggage will be one of the more expensive items purchased for study abroad travels, but make it a priority. It is not something you want to skimp on. Look at it as an investment that will pay for itself over time. If done right, the bags you purchase now can last your lifetime.
There are three main types of luggage necessary for a study abroad experience: a checked bag, a carry-on and a personal bag. Feel free to take more or less bags. Plus, the cost increases with each additional bag. The nice thing about taking a carry-on and/or a personal item (backpack) is that you have a smaller bag for your short excursions during your study abroad.
Just keep in mind if you take more, you must transport all your bags by yourself. I remember sitting on a train helplessly as I watched a student arrive late at the train station and unsuccessfully attempt to juggle several bags while navigating the platform before missing her scheduled train. It was heartbreaking. I hope you will avoid her fate by following the advice I offer in this article.
I opted for all three bags when I studied abroad in Spain. I used a large suitcase for my checked bag. Inside I kept the main necessities. My carry-on was used for items that wouldn’t fit or weighed down my larger suitcase. The workhorse was my backpack, which served as my personal bag. It doubled as my school backpack and my short trip carry-on. My more fragile and important items fit inside it on my initial flight to Spain.
It is manageable to cart around three bags. For this reason, I have written the packing list as if you are taking three bags. However, it is still applicable if you choose to take less. I tried to cover everything you could possibly need for your time abroad for all genders, but use your discretion when going through the list.
Bag #1: The Checked Bag
The checked bag will be the largest suitcase. It will store the bulk of your belongings. Many airlines will not charge for your first checked bag as long as it weighs less than 50 pounds. The cost of an overweight bag can start at $100 and go up, depending on how overweight the bag is. Fees will also rack up for bags beyond the first one checked. Check with the airline you will use before packing for their specific requirements and costs. The last thing you want is to be caught off guard with fees at the airport for something that could have been avoided.
Tips for Choosing a Checked Bag
There are many options for checked bags online and in stores. There are several features to look for when choosing a bag. Also, check out my top picks for checked bags here.
4 wheels. Having four wheels that roll in every direction will make lugging around a 50 pound suitcase through the airport much easier. Pushing the bag upright rather than tipping it on two wheels will help your arm not tire as easily.
Dimensions: Common dimensions of a checked bag are 27″ x 21″ x 14″ or 62 linear inches or total inches. That typically includes the handle and wheels. These dimensions are just a guide. The suitcase does not have to be exact.
Weight. The suitcase should be sturdy and well made, but lightweight. The heavier the bag, the less items you can take.
Hard / Soft shell. This is left to personal preference and what you deem the best choice for your luggage. To help the decision making between a hard or soft shell bag, I compiled a list of common reasons travelers either like or dislike the two types of bags.
- Hard Shell – luggage with hard sides made of plastics or aluminum that open like clam shells.
- Pros: Provides better protection against breakable items getting damaged. The plastic sides also protect the contents from getting exposed to the elements. The bags are more secure because they cannot be opened with a blade and have better locks.
- Cons: The shell can crack if too much weight or pressure is applied. The sleek look of the hard shell can get damaged with dents and scratches. The hard shell bag does not have flexibility and needs a fixed space for storage. More area is needed to open the luggage to retrieve items. Less room for items (although could be a pro because no possibility of over packing). Most hard sided bags do not have external pockets. Aluminum hard cases are heavy.
- Soft Shell – luggage generally made of a woven nylon material that moves and yields to stress.
- Pros: Lightweight. Flexibility gives the bag the ability to fit in tighter spaces or stuff more last minute items inside. Access into the bag can be easier. Soft shell bags have one deep pocket for all your items. Can be easier to pack. Soft shell luggage typically has external pockets which provide more room for your things. Many soft shell suitcases can expand to fit bulkier (or more) items.
- Cons: The soft shell does not provide as much protection for your belongings. Items can get squished. Also, the soft shell is not protected against the elements. If the bag gets wet, it can seep inside and make your items wet. There is less protection against rips, intentional or unintentional, if the material is not of high quality. Easier to over pack.
Unique color or pattern. Not essential, but this does make identifying your bag at baggage claim much easier.
Sturdy zipper. A sturdy zipper will give you more peace of mind while traveling because there will be less possibility for your zipper to bust.
Click Here If You Would Like to View My Recommended List of Appropriate “Checked Bags” for Your Study Abroad Experience.
What to Pack Inside Your Checked Bag
Clothing
- Bras
- Underwear
- Socks
- Long sleeve shirts
- Short sleeve shirts
- T-shirts
- Pajamas
- Swimsuit
- Cardigan / sweater
- Lightweight rain jacket / poncho
- Warm jacket
- Pants, shorts, and/or skirts
- Nice outfit (dress for ladies, dress pants and shirt for guys)
- Comfortable shoes (for every day use)
- House shoes / slippers (optional, but walking barefoot or in socks on hard floors will get your feet or socks super dirty)
- Flip flops (for showers in hostels, could be used for beach too)
- Nice shoes (no heels, but you need a nice pair to get into clubs or evening events)
Toiletries
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
- Contacts (extras for the whole time), case, solution
- Glasses, case, cleaner
- Shampoo, conditioner, hair gel and body wash (optional, can purchase generic ones in host country)
- Empty TSA compliant travel sized bottles (optional, if you don’t buy travel sized shampoo, conditioner, hair gel or body wash)
- Louffa
- Face wash
- Q tips
- Cotton balls
- Razor with refills
- Nail clippers, nail file, cuticle clippers, tweezers
- Hair ties / clips
- Hair brush / comb
- Lotion
- Sunscreen
- Deodorant
- Chapstick
- Makeup
- Feminine hygiene products (take at least a month’s supply, but if you are worried your host country will not carry the same products, take enough for your entire stay)
- Menstrual cup (optional, but can replace tampons and pads and take up minimal space in your luggage)
Electronics
- Universal power adapter
- Phone, charger
- Laptop / tablet, charger
- Kindle, charger
- Headphones, with charger if wireless
- Power banks (1-2 for emergencies or long trips without power)
- Camera, charger, memory cards (optional)
- Flash drive
Laundry
- Towels (if not included in housing)
- Wash rags
- Wrinkle spray
- Stain remover pen (for in a pinch)
- Lint roller
- Sheets
Miscellaneous Items
- Pens and pencils
- Calculator (if your classes require one)
- Luggage scale
- Umbrella (optional)
- Playing cards (just for something to do)
- Gift for host (checkout ideas in this post!)
Accessories
- Fashionable fanny pack (keeps items close to your body and stay in fashion, unlike traditional money belts)
- Purse
- Belt
- Watch, jewelry
- Sunglasses
Medical
- Prescription medication
- Inhaler
- Over the counter pain medications
- Over the counter cold/flu medications
- Contraceptives
Bag #2: The Carry-On
A carry-on bag is one that goes with you on the airplane and is stored in the overhead compartments. A carry-on is meant to be small, but there are no regulations about dimensions. Each airline will have different rules so check those before purchasing.
Taking a carry-on for study abroad in addition to a checked bag is a good idea for a few reasons. First, you can take more of those things you can’t seem to leave behind. Also, a carry-on can be used for small trips during your adventures abroad. There are a few features to keep in mind for your carry-on.
Tips for Choosing a Carry-On
Dimensions. The maximum dimensions for the United States is 9″ x 14″ x 22″ with handle and wheels included.But keep in mind requirements differ internationally. So if you plan on traveling during your time abroad (which I highly suggest) check popular airlines requirements in the area you will be in.
Wheels. There are three main carry-on wheel types: 2, 4 or no wheels. This will be left up to your own personal preference, but keep these in mind when purchasing a carry-on.
- 2 wheels: The luggage must be tipped and dragged on both wheels. The wheels are protected from rough handling, so less possibility of wheels breaking.
- 4 wheels: The wheels swivel in every direction. Ergonomically, this is the best choice. The wheels are exposed though and can be susceptible to snapping off.
- No wheels: This type is a duffel bag with a shoulder strap and/or handle. This leaves one hand to drag the large suitcase and one hand free. But your back can get tired from carrying it around the airport. I took this type of bag for my carry-on when I studied abroad. It worked well when I had my large suitcase with me because I could fit it on top and not carry the weight on my back. However, carrying it through the airport made my neck and back sore.
Hard / Soft Shell. The same pros and cons from the Checked Bag section apply to hard and soft shell carry-on bags. Again, it will be up to your own personal preference. Just keep in mind, the bag will have to fit in the overhead bin on the plane.
Click Here If You Would Like to View My Recommended List of Appropriate “Carry-On Bags” for Your Study Abroad Experience.
What to Pack in Your Carry-On
Clothing
- Extra set of clothes (at least one pair just in case you make it before your bag)
- Lightweight jacket (in case airplane or airport is chilly)
Toiletries
- Travel size shampoo, conditioner, hair gel and body wash (buy TSA compliant bottles to use on short trips and refill when necessary, also helps if your bag is delayed)
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss (travel size)
- Tissues
- Chapstick
Bag #3: The Personal Bag
Airlines allow passengers to carry two items on the airplane. I’ve discuss the Carry-On Bag. The second item, or bag is referred to as The Personal Bag. It usually fits under the seat in front of you on the airplane. The most common types of personal items include briefcases, backpacks, purses, diaper bags, totes, camera bags, etc.
For me, the backpack is the perfect choice for your Personal Bag to study abroad. The backpack can be used for school during the week and as an overnight bag for the weekend. I used my backpack for a week-long trip! The features that you should look for in a backpack are included in the following list.
Tips for Choosing a Personal Bag
Dimensions. Stick to the carry-on size of 9″ x 14″ x 22″ or less in order to keep it from getting checked.
Material. Look for a backpack that is lightweight, but high quality material. The lighter, the easier to carry. The ideal backpack would be made of a rip-resistant and water-resistant material.
Padding. Padding equals more comfort. Look for a backpack with padding on the shoulder straps as well as on the piece that rests against your back. The padding on your back will help the backpack form better to your body and make it more comfortable.
Chest and Shoulder Straps. These two features will help keep the load off your back and make for a more comfortable trip.
Front Loading. A front loading backpack is one that opens like a suitcase. It is much easier to stay organized with this type of backpack. Also, items are more easily accessed compared to a top-loading backpack where you have to dig for items.
Lockable. Safety, safety, safety. Traveling in crowded places will probably be part of your study abroad adventures, thus increasing the risk of theft. The ability to lock your backpack will greatly reduce your risk of losing an item.
Laptop Sleeve. The backpack needs one pocket to be padded to provide extra protection for a laptop. Make sure the pocket is against the back to ensure maximum protection. Another option is to purchase a protective laptop sleeve that is not part of the backpack. The important thing is to keep your precious laptop safe!
Side Pockets. Make sure there is at least one pocket on the side for a water bottle. You’d be surprised at how many backpacks do not come with side pockets. So double check! Take a water bottle and carry it with you at all times to stay hydrated. Also, bottled water is expensive so you will be saving money too. The side pockets can also double as a place holder to stash your snacks.
Click Here If You Would Like to View My Recommended List of Appropriate “Personal Bags” for Your Study Abroad Experience.
What to Pack Inside Your Personal Bag
Important Documents
- Passport
- Visa(s)
- Insurance card
- ID (school, driver’s license, ISIC card, etc.)
- Credit and debit cards
- Photocopies of passport, visas, credit and debit cards, insurance, and IDs (just in case they get stolen!)
- Boarding passes (printed for keepsake, otherwise get it on your phone for easy access!)
- Emergency contact list printed
- Travel itinerary
- Prescriptions for medications
Funds
- Home currency (take a bit for airport purchases and for your return)
- Host country currency (take approximately 300 in their currency)
Electronics
- Laptop / tablet, charger
- Cellphone, charger
- Headphones, charger if applicable
- Kindle or book (optional)
Toiletries
- Deodorant
- Face cleansing cloths (plane rides and airports have a way of making your face feel grimy, these help to combat that issue until you can take a shower)
- Hand sanitizer (TSA compliant size)
- Feminine hygiene products (a few just in case)
Miscellaneous Items
- Gum (for bad breath or make your ears pop from the plane ride)
- Wallet
- Transportation tickets (only applies if you already purchased transportation upon arrival)
- Things to do on the plane
- Book
- Coloring book
- Electronic game
- Travel pillow (carry with you)
- Favorite snacks (airport food is expensive, plus you’ll find these comforting after a few weeks)
- Journal (for recording those amazing memories)
- Reusable water bottle
- Lock for luggage
Medical
- Prescription medications
- Vitamins
- Allergy medications
- Eye drops
- Inhaler
- Contraceptives
General Packing Tips
Extra clothes in carry-on. Unfortunately, it is common for luggage to get lost in transit or become delayed in its arrival, leaving you with only what you packed inside your carry-on and backpack. Have at least one shirt and a few pairs of underwear and shorts. Don’t end up like my cousin and get offered money because you look homeless!
Tourist-y items. Don’t pack clothes that scream “tourist”. You don’t want to stick out in your host country and become a target. Try to blend in with locals as much as possible.
Culture. Knowing about the culture will provide you a baseline on what is deemed appropriate for wear. Some cultures are more conservative and showing too much arm or leg can be disrespectful. Oftentimes, religious places are very conservative and want you to be covered. Be respectful when packing your clothes and keep in mind you may not have to be covered all the time, but bring a shawl or something similar to be prepared for a situation like that. Most times this affects the ladies more than the men out there.
Environment. Will you be studying in an environment that is more rural? If so, it is likely stores will be few and far between. This means you will have to literally pack everything you will need for your time abroad. But, if you will be in a more urban setting, shops will be around. So those items you left behind because you couldn’t decide might be available for purchase in your host country if you finally decide you need it.
Climate. This one is important. Know the climate of the country you will be visiting. Is it hot year round? Does it rain often? Will the seasons change during your time there? Pay attention to the current season too because it may be summer where you are, but winter where you will be traveling.
Length. The length of your stay will also affect the clothes you pack. A year long adventure will vary from a two week long program.
Basics. Packing basic items that can be re-worn and used for multiple occasions will maximize the amount of space saved in your bag. Don’t suppress your self-expression, but pack practically. Add in a few accessories to jazz up the basic items.
Quantity. The question is always “how many of each item should I take?” A good rule of thumb is to pack about a week’s worth of clothes. That includes shirts, underwear and socks. Pants and bras can be re-worn more than once between washings so a full 14 pairs would not be the most practical. However, the more you take, the longer you can go between washings.
Don’t overpack. If you cannot decided on an item, DON’T take it!!! If you can’t decide now, chances are you probably will not use it because you can’t decide there too. Don’t waste the precious space in your bag for something you don’t love.
No heels. Just don’t. Leave the heels at home ladies. Pack comfortable shoes for every day wear and a few extras that can double as nice or as casual.
Money. Don’t take more than you are willing to lose. I suggest 300 in your host country currency, but do NOT keep it all in one place. Put some in your wallet and in different pockets in your carry-on and backpack. This will minimize the risk of losing all your money if something were to happen.
Luggage scale. Use the luggage scale to weigh your bag before departure. Afterwards, stuff it inside your suitcase and use it on your return home to avoid extra charges.
Appliances. Do NOT bring hair dryers, straighteners or anything of the like. The voltage can still be too powerful even when using a converter and cause damage. It is best to purchase these types of items in your host country.
Travel cubes. These are nifty bags that will help keep your suitcase organized and minimize wasted space.
Extra quart bags. Pack a few extra quart size bags in your checked bag. They are the size TSA approves for all your liquids in a carry-on bag. Packing extra will ensure that if one busts, you have another to replace it. A bonus is they don’t take up space or weigh much.
Free Downloadable PDF packing list
As promised, here is the master list for packing. It has everything listed that you could possibly need for your study abroad adventures! Follow the packing tips, use your own discretion for choosing appropriate items, and mark off the items as you pack. Good luck and happy packing!
Download pdf: Study Abroad Express Packing List