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 her plane from Spain to Ireland (never again).
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 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.
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. Additionally, 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
- Extra socks
- Extra underwear
- Swimsuit (Montreal accommodations have a pool!)
- Windbreaker/jacket (be sure to pack for the climate)
- Pants/shorts
- Shirts
- Sandals/flipflops/slippers (to walk around the accommodation)
- Toiletries
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Face wash
- Facial lotion
- Sunscreen
- Deodorant
- Body wash
- Shampoo/conditioner
- Brush/comb
Backpack – don’t overpack this because it’ll be heavy and you’ll need space for souvenirs!
- Laptop
- Chargers
- 1 notebook
- Pencils/pens
- Hat
- Prescriptions
- Map of the city
- 1 copy of passport
- Water bottle
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
- 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.