This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Illinois chapter.

Congratulations, you’ve done it! You’ve applied, been accepted, got your passport and now … you’re going abroad! Packing for a weekend getaway can seem quite difficult, let alone months at a time. While daydreaming of your upcoming trip, make sure to pack these 7 things which will leave plenty of room for spontaneous purchases and souvenirs for friends back home.

1. A cute, yet comfortable pair of shoes

It’s vital that you pack a pair of comfortable shoes, but not a pair of hideous sneakers. Those stand out too much and scream, “Hi, I’m a tourist!” Opt for something that will go well with your most of your wardrobe like Sperry Top-Siders, Converse or Supergas, which are really popular in Europe right now.

2. Everyday basics you can wear multiple ways

The weather in most parts of Europe will change dramatically throughout the day so its important to pack a lot of pieces that layer easily. Choose basic T-shirts, tank tops, light sweaters and a variety of jackets. This will also ensure that you have plenty of outfit options with items you can wear multiple ways.

3. At least one scarf

Scarves. Scarves. Scarves. Another item that you can wear in many ways that can instantly transform any outfit. Pretty light for packing, bring a few of these in a variety of colors and materials. Scarves are also great great to use as a blanket if you plan to be traveling a lot to other countries during your time abroad.

4. A large carryall tote

Personally, my purse carries my life. Being in Europe where you have to keep track of even more than you do at home requires an even bigger bag, as well as a sturdy one. Be sure to pick one out that also has a zipper because pickpocketing is extremely common. My favorites are the Longchamp Le Pliage totes. They’re durable, water-resistant and can be folded flat to be compact.

5. A journal

In five months time abroad you will have experienced and seen a lot and your friends and family will want to hear about it all when you return home. My suggestion is to bring a small journal with you to record everything you did each day from which restaurants you dined at to the forms of transportation you used. It’s a great way to keep track of your adventures and to advise others on what to do during their time abroad.

6. A camera other than your cell phone

Although your camera phone has the ability to take decent photos of your adventures in Urbana-Champaign, when it comes to you leaving the country you should invest in a nice compact camera. These are moments you’re going to want to remember forever and may never have the chance to experience again, so taking quality photos is a must.

7. E-book reader

During your time abroad you’ll find you will have a lot of down time when it comes to traveling to different places. I highly suggest bringing along an iPad, Nook or Kindle to keep you entertained and they’re way more compact than dragging your laptop everywhere.

Photo sources:

http://www.travelbrochures.org/3056/blog/czech-republic/attachment/packi…

http://trendland.com/alexa-chung/

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/splendid-dolman-sleeve-top/3651570?origin=ke…

http://us.aritzia.com/product/deconstructive-blanket/53102.html?dwvar_53…

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/longchamp-large-le-pliage-tote/3241956?origi…

http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/27075514.jsp?cm_vc=SEARCH_RE…

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/sony-alpha-a5000-compact-system-camera-with-…

http://www.amazon.com/Kindle-Glare-Free-Touchscreen-Display-Wi-Fi/dp/B00…