Congratulations on going abroad! It’s an exciting but stressful time as you prepare for your trip. You’re working out transportation, planning your budget, and getting ready for the culture shock. Packing might be the last thing on your mind. That’s okay. I’m providing you with a comprehensive packing list.
I’ve had the privilege of going to nine countries in my life so far, and I’ve visited Paris, Barcelona, Dublin, Amsterdam, San Jose, Kingston, and Quebec City. I went with my family, on school-sponsored trips, and for college credit. I have had brushes with pickpockets. I know a thing or two about packing.
What NOT to Bring
Leave that DSLR at home, unless you have a very good reason to lug it around. Cameras are heavy, not to mention expensive. Carrying one around marks you as a tourist and possibly makes you a target of theft. Additionally, immigration security may give you hell for the electronic components— take it from someone who had to unpack her entire camera bag while trying to catch a plane from Spain to Ireland (never again). If you want some fun photos, I recommend several disposable film cameras instead!
In fact, don’t bring anything particularly precious on the trip. Yes, you will likely need your laptop and cellphone, but leave your other expensive and beloved possessions at home. Things get lost or stolen all the time, especially when you’re in a new place. Your favorite stuffed animal or piece of jewelry will be safer at home.
Your student accommodations do not have towels. Champlain staff abroad do not recommend bringing your own because they will take up so much space in your suitcase. The program staff will show you places to purchase new ones, as well as any detergent you may need for the washing machines. However, when I visited Ireland for the summer program, I decided to bring my extra large swim towel as well as a washcloth and hair towel, which I felt was worth the space.
What to Bring
When I go on a trip, I take my suitcase, a backpack, and a crossbody bag, such as a purse. The suitcase will be checked and will stay at my accommodations, but the backpack can come with me and the purse will never leave my side. Also, I wear my most comfortable clothes, a sweatshirt, and walking shoes when I’m going to the airport or train station.
Suitcase – to conserve space, I recommend rolling up your clothes rather than folding them
- COMFORTABLE WALKING SHOES
- Extra socks
- Extra underwear
- T-shirts, button-ups, long sleeves, and tank tops
- More pants than shorts, including athleisure
- 1 nice outfit
- Swimsuit (Montreal accommodations have a pool!)
- Rain jacket
- Warm coat
- Cardigan
- At least 1 hoodie and 1 sweatshirt
- Sandals/flipflops/slippers (to walk around the accommodation and shower)
- Water-proof shoes
- Plug converters (research your host country’s outlets)
- Toiletries (for semester students, you may want to buy these when you arrive)
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Face wash
- Facial lotion
- Sunscreen — very important no matter where or when!
- Bug spray
- Deodorant
- Body wash
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Brush/comb
- Bare minimum makeup
- If you have glasses, bring your old pair just in case
Backpack – don’t overpack this because it’ll be heavy and you’ll need space for souvenirs!
- Laptop
- Chargers
- Portable charger (essential!!!)
- 1 notebook
- Pencils and pens
- Hat
- Prescriptions
- Map of the city
- 1 copy of passport
- Water bottle
- Your prescriptions!
Crossbody bag – do not go anywhere without it
- Passport
- Wallet, with unnecessary cards removed and no more than 100 dollars of the currency
- Phone
- Earbuds
- Sunglasses
- Hair ties
- Hand sanitizer
- Chapstick
- Band aids
Although I recommend anti-theft bags, it’s also important to try to fit into your new community. You will be living here; you should be comfortable. Be mindful of your surroundings and don’t put anything vital in the outer pockets. The best way to experience this new culture is to live like the locals.