With the end of the school year just around the corner, it is time for those who are going abroad next fall to start to prepare for their travel experience. Having spent many summers doing language immersion programs in France, I have collected a series of tips that are helpful to keep in mind.
1. Remember to budget your money.
When you're in a new city, it is so easy to spend money on silly things that are expensive and unnecessary. Try to keep note of the money you spend. Even if it's for restaurants, groceries, clothing, or souvenirs, writing down what you spend will help you keep track of your funds. The last thing you want to experience is running out of all your money midway through the semester, and then having to sacrifice opportunities. Think of what your priorities are abroad, for me, I would rather spend my money on weekend trips than on a lavish meal.
2. Try to pack light.
If you're anything like me, you have a select few pieces of clothing that you cycle through. I have drawers and drawers full of clothing that I never seem to wear. This occurs when packing, too! It is so easy to overpack, thinking you will wear things you typically wouldn't. When going away for months at a time, I try to limit myself to one suitcase, this way you don't over pack, and remember laundry machines are available! Don't pack your toiletries, they're heavy and take up space, you can just buy them there instead.
3. Bring towels and sheets.
It is always unsure if the place you will be staying will provide towels and sheets, and even still, it is always a good idea to bring your own. If these don't fit in the one suitcase suggested, pack those in a small duffle bag. If you feel like you'll be able to buy those there easily, then do that! The less baggage, the better.
4. Call your bank.
Being in an unfamiliar place can be unsettling and anxiety inducing, so the last thing you want is for your credit/debit card to stop working. If you don't tell your bank that you are going abroad, they may think your card has been stolen or hacked, and they will freeze it. Another good idea is to check if your bank exists where you are traveling. That way you will know for sure if you can find your bank's ATM, or even go see them if you're having issues.
5. Keep in touch.
Make sure you talk to your friends and family before going abroad and let them know the best ways to reach you. If you plan on getting a temporary phone, give them your new number. Another safety tip is to always have a little notepad on you that has important numbers and addresses that you don't have memorized.
Finally, have fun! enjoy your time abroad, and try to make the most of it, because although you will probably have chances to travel later on, you probably won't be able to travel for the sake of learning. Studying abroad is enriching both academically and culturally.
