Electricity

When taking electric appliances (laptops, curling irons, hair dryers, etc.) abroad, check the voltage. The standard voltage in the United States is 110 volts. The standard voltage across most of the world is 220 volts.

The electric appliance might need a voltage converter. Appliances will fry if they have the wrong voltage. Frog in Costa Rica

The type of plug also varies overseas. Look into purchasing a plug adapter.

Laptops

Taking a laptop can be helpful in completing homework, researching, communicating, or watching movies. Sometimes connecting to an internet service provider can be challenging and expensive. Some universities have wireless connections within the residences. Students need be careful with their laptop as it is valuable and can be easily stolen, lost, or broken.

Prescription Medicines

Take enough prescribed medicine for the time spent abroad. The medicine needs to be clearly marked in the original bottle with the patients name, physicians name, drug name, and dosage. Also a written physician prescription explaining the condition and use might be required to bring the medicine through customs.

Suggested Packing List

It is best to keep packing simple. Try to keep the load under 25 pounds so it does not haunt you later when carrying your luggage from place to place. Leave room for souvenirs to take back. Only take what is essential.

Pack one change of clothes in a carry-on just in case the checked luggage gets lost. Label your luggage inside and out. Put liquids in a plastic bag since they tend to ooze.

General Items:

  • BackpackAg in Italy Spring Break Course
  • Copy of passport "vital statistics" page
  • Small flashlight
  • Extra passport photos
  • Photos from home to share
  • Laundry soap
  • Toiletry articles
  • Toothbrush, hair brush and/or comb
  • Watch
  • Alarm Clock (not electric)
  • Calculator
  • Writing materials
  • Address book
  • Small sewing kit
  • Camera
  • Prescription Medications
  • Small first aid kit
  • Small umbrella
  • Plastic bags
  • Extra eyeglasses
  • Money belt or neck pouch
  • Pictures or postcards of home
  • Small packets of kleenex
  • Batteries
  • Food – favorite candy bar, peanut butter, popcorn, packets of soup
  • Pocket knife/Swiss Army knife – Do NOT pack in your carry-on
  • Adapter/Voltage converter

Wardrobe:

  • 2 pairs of shoes (one that would be good for walking)
  • 3-4 shirts/blouses/sweaters
  • 2-3 pairs of jeans/pants
  • 6-7 changes of underwear
  • 6-7 pair of socksIreland
  • 2 pairs of pajamas
  • 1 sweater
  • 1 coat/rain jacket (seasonal)
  • 1 dressy outfit
  • 2-3 sweatshirts
  • 2-3 t-shirts
  • 1 pair of flip-flops
  • swimming suit

Leave at Home:

  • Heavy things
  • Expensive jewelry
  • Anything uncomfortable

Don't Forget

  • Passport
  • Tickets and rail passes
  • International Student ID card
  • Insurance Card and Information
  • Cash; travelers checks; credit cards; debit/ATM  card