Lessons from the Trenches: A Compilation of Study Abroad Packing Tips

Students who have studied abroad learn a lot about packing, about what to take and what to leave home. Unfortunately, these lessons are often learned the hard way, when students are unable to apply what they've learned, since they are already on the trip. This blog entry is meant for students who will be going on a study abroad trip in the future. Learn from the experts, those who have already studied abroad!

For a general philosophy, pack light! Dr. Newell Wright has taken over 1,200 students abroad, and most of his students wished they had heeded his advice to pack light. Now that most airlines only allow one free bag instead of two, the advice is even more urgent.

First order of business: get the right suitcase. Bigger is not always better, as you have a 50 pound weight limit and you will still have to schlep your bags wherever you go. A big suitcase can be a real ball and chain, especially in a crowded metro system with a lot of steps and few escalators (e.g., Paris). A duffle bag or a backpack might be a better choice, depending on how much you will need to handle your luggage.

If space is an issue, consider using space saving bags. However, there is one major limitation to this suggestion: you gain extra space, but not extra weight. You still have a 50 pound limit on your suitcase. Still, this can be a helpful suggestion if you want to pack bulky, but light, objects such as extra shoes.

So in your one limited bag, what should you take? One suggestion is to pack two pair of travel underwear. Wear one during the day, then wash at night and wear the clean set while the other set is drying. Some students swear by this strategy for packing light.

Should the study abroad traveler give up on fashion? Not necessarily. One student shows how to make two shirts, two pair of shoes, one pair of pants and a jacket combine for an entire week's worth of outfits. Add some small accessories, such as a necklace, earrings, and a scarf, and let the fun begin. Make sure you see all of the photos associated with this suggestion.

Given the often unpredictable weather in Europe, some students recommend that, no matter what the weather, pack at least one pair of shorts or a skirt for your trip to Europe.

What about jewelry? Should you allot some of your precious suitcase space to jewelry? Here are some great suggestions about how much and what kinds of jewelry you should bring. If you are traveling in colder months, this article also makes an wonderful suggestion for your inner fahionista: bring a nice looking coat and a selection of fashionable scarves. That's all that will be visible in your photos anyway.

Students also share some advice about footwear. This article makes four excellent suggestions: 1) take extra foot inserts; 2) bring comfortable shoes; 3) limit your shoes to four or fewer pair; and 4) leave the heels home. This saves valuable space in your one suitcase. Above all, think comfort first and then fashion! There is such a thing as a comfortable, fashionable shoe. After walking over cobblestone streets all day, your feet will thank you.

Finally, if you absolutely cannot get it all into one suitcase, consider purchasing wearable luggage. No, seriously! See the video at the link for a bag that transforms into a jacket. Who says innovation is dead?