Going on a Study Abroad Trip? Pack Lightly!

So you have an upcoming study abroad trip. You will be spending five or six weeks in Europe, visiting ten countries, twenty-five cities, and learning all about European culture. But a pressing problem remains: what to pack?

Airline baggage policies are quite restrictive. With inexpensive tickets, you usually are limited to one, 50-pound suitcase, one carry-on piece of luggage, and one personal item. Will you have enough space? What should you take? And, more importantly, what will you bring back?

Dr. Newell Wright of the Center for Global Initiatives at North Dakota State University has taken over 1,100 students abroad since 1998, and has some suggestions for packing.


"Pack light," said Dr. Wright. "Let me repeat that: Pack light! Think about every single item you put in your suitcase. Ask yourself, two or three times, 'Do I really need this?'" According to Dr. Wright, students often over pack and bring many things they do not need and do not use. "Over packing is a big problem, especially if students have to carry all of their luggage very far. There is nothing sadder than seeing someone struggle up and down stairs in a metro system with too much luggage."

Consider the impact the weather will have on your clothing suggestions. "For a fall trip," said Dr. Wright, "it may be cool. One student suggested bringing a stylish jacket, as that will be the only thing other people ever see in photographs. The coat or jacket you are wearing."

Laundry can be a nuisance while traveling and, according to students, underwear and socks are what trigger the need to do laundry. "One student told me he could wear pants and shirts more than once, but not socks and underwear. So he brought 30 pair of cheap socks and 30 sets of underwear," said Dr. Wright.

Other student suggestions Dr. Wright has collected over the years include the following.

• Think comfort rather than fashion, especially for shoes. You will be walking a lot and stylish shoes can often be uncomfortable.
• Take a fanny pack with you on the airplane. These don't count as part of your carry-on items and you can put your iPod and digital camera in the fanny pack.
• Bring at least one nicer outfit. In many countries, people dress better than the typical American. This is important when going out.
• Bring school supplies (e.g., pens, notebooks), as they may be cheaper in the U.S.
• Bring a small, portable umbrella.
• Bring flip flops for showering, especially if you have to stay in a hostel somewhere.
• Bring a book to read (or a Kindle, Nook, or other e-reader) for down time. There will be down time!

But leave some things behind. "Most electronics should be left at home, unless they are dual voltage," Wright said. "There are different electrical systems around the world. Personal electronics, such as laptops, digital cameras, iPods, and video cameras are often dual voltage, which means all you need to make them work is a plug adapter. Most hair dryers, curling irons, hair straighteners, etc., are not dual voltage and should be left home." It is also a good idea to leave jewelry and other valuable items at home. "You don't want to lose your valuables or get them stolen."

"Above all," said Dr. Wright, "remember to leave extra room in your luggage for the things you purchase during your study abroad experience. Many students have to decide what to leave behind if they over packed on arrival. You will bring back souvenirs, so plan accordingly."