Student Bloggers

The first obstacle I must face during my semester abroad: packing light without wearing the same thing for three months straight. I love clothes. I also play the “what if” game when packing. What if I don’t feel like wearing those shoes? What if I spill coffee all over six of these sweaters? What if I meet the Queen of England? (Because that’s definitely going to happen while I’m in England…most definitely).

When you are attempting to fit three months worth of life into two suitcases, everything needs multiple uses. You must like, maybe even love, everything you are packing, because nothing you pack will go unused. I tried to balance basic pieces with fun pieces that add variety. I kept my tops and bottoms simple and conservative: jeans, black skirts, grey cashmere sweaters, basic long sleeve shirts, etc. I brought, however, six fun scarves of multiple colors to add variety to the basic pieces. Scarves take up little room and can completely change an outfit, saving space in my suitcase and helping me avoid repeating outfits (well, repeating too often I should say…)

When I work with scouts on backpacking skills, specifically gear, I tell them to take no more than they need, but that one luxury item is permissible. The same principle applies here, and I have a couple: my Eeyore travel buddy and my bulky trench coat. Otherwise, everything else must be a necessity.

But what constitutes a necessity? That’s a difficult question, it changes depending on the person, the program, the time of year, and the amount of luggage you are willing to carry. The following are some of my necessities that weren’t initially obvious (I don’t need to tell you, for example, that socks are a necessity):

• Small, travel-size external hard drive (you can still back up your essays)
• A wallet that is large enough to carry European currency
• Satin bra pouch
• Feminine hygiene products (they may not be the same brands abroad)
• Credit Cards/Debit Cards with silver chips on the front (the magnetic strip may not be as easily read abroad)
• Travel Journal to record everything (I purchased the classic Moleskine® with a soft cover)
• Shoes from a European brand (I’ve found them most comfortable to walk in, especially my ECCO boots)
• A small duffel (for weekend trips and as an extra bag for souvenirs)
• Scarves (as mentioned earlier)

Another element to consider is cost. Where should you spend your money? I invested in a nice coat and dress for my semester in London, as well as Hunter collapsible rain boots. However, I did not spend a lot of money on my jewelry or my heels; that way, it’s perfectly all right if a “pearl” earring falls out or I step in a large puddle.

When in doubt, don’t take it. Worst case, you buy it once you arrive. That’s truly the secret to packing for a three-month stay: pack the things you know you need and buy anything else once you arrive. Some things I am purchasing once I arrive: a straightener and blow dryer (no need for a converter or adapter then!), some toiletries, school supplies, and any clothing that I suddenly find I need once I’m there.

It is never fun to feel you are drowning in stuff that you aren’t using, surrounded by precautions for the infinite “what if” scenarios. I’ve packed for three months abroad in a backpack and two suitcases, one of which is small enough to be a carry-on. Living with less is wonderful, and I figure the less I pack now the better I can enjoy my study abroad experience.