The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at FIU chapter.
Packing Essentials
- Charging Port: Depending on the country, you’ll find that your charger doesn’t fit Into the outlet. The best thing to do is research and buy international portable power adapters/charger plugs ahead of time so you’re not left scrambling and your devices in need of life support.
- Luggage Help:Travel Packs or Packing Cubes – Having the right luggage is a good start in preparing to travel overseas for an X amount of time. Buying mini packs to store your essentials, clothes, and various other items to store neatly inside your suitcase or bag will save you the hassle of trying to fit everything in as one.
Research
- Weather: You don’t want to pack a bag full of clothes for the wrong setting. Do your research on what the weather would be like at your destination. Give yourself a head start just in case you need to update your entire wardrobe or mentally prepare for a weather shock.
- Clothes: Research – like the weather – what’s appropriate to wear at your destination. Think ahead on what you plan on doing over there to give yourself a heads up on clothing essentials to bring. Whether it’s bikinis, parkas, headscarves, sneakers, stilettos, or hiking boots, you’ll thank yourself for preparing and dressing appropriately and respectfully.
- Culture: Research the country’s culture. It’s so important to be respectful and aware of the similarities and differences between your home culture and your next location, remember that you’re not at home and certain norms and social standards you’re accustomed to might not fly well somewhere else. Best to avoid a cultural faux pas while traveling in a foreign land.
- SIM card: You may need to buy a new one overseas. International rates can be incredibly expensive so buying a local SIM card will help you in the long run. Easier placed calls, Internet access, data usage, and traveling to different countries without additional fees are the way to go.
Language:
If you want or need to learn a new language, whether it’s the basics or the whole, there are plenty of options to choose from in achieving that goal. Whether it’s apps, classes, videos, or lessons online, you have the internet at your disposal.
My Personal Favorite? The Busuu app.
- Busuu: An app aimed to teach its users their language of choice. What I love about Busuu is that fluent speakers in real-time can correct and give feedback on your answer responses to help you along your goal of learning a new language. Personally, I find Busuu to be much more informative and engaging than Duolingo.
The Most Important:
- Passport: Make sure your passport is ready to go. Renewing your passport can take a few weeks to a couple of months most of the time. Best to check months in advance and make the necessary preparations early so you don’t have to pay extra or travel to different passport offices looking for a last-minute appointment. That’s the stress we do not need.