How are you possibly going to pack your entire life into a suitcase without running into issues with airline bag limits and weight restrictions? When it comes down to it, you will always end up bringing stuff you never end up using and missing some items you will long for. But here’s a list to start you off of the things you do not want to be without upon arriving in your new home abroad.

1. The most reliable jeans in your closet.

You know the pair. Maybe you’re just like me and will pick them up during a last minute shopping trip and won’t be expecting them to be the pair. Or maybe they have carried you through a lot of events already and you know they’ve always been a steady option. These jeans will become your first option during any day excursion, casual night out or hours spent in class. These jeans will be your go-to comfort travel pair when you take a seven hour overnight bus after not showering for a weekend in your hostel. Don’t think that your semester abroad will be the time you turn a new leaf and ditch the jeans look for classy tights or sporty leggings. Bring the jeans.

2. An umbrella.

Preferably a compact one!

Being optimistic can be nice, being unprepared never is. Both the fall and spring semester include months that bring rain. Bringing a cheap, foldable, yet sturdy umbrella from home will be a decision that will grant you comfort for all uncertainties in the weather. It’s not an item you’ll be happy to drop your new currency on in the middle of a storm, especially when tourist shops jack up the prices during these exact times.

3. That homey touch.

Maybe you’re like me and think that there’s no way the bag space is worth the home university dorm room decor, but if it’s what will keep you grounded during tidal waves of home sickness, then it’s more than worth it.

4. A towel.

I feel very passionate about this one, although it has specificity.

I advise you to bring at least one towel from home that doesn’t take up too much space in your initial suitcase, so that it will be ideal for weekend trips, but still big and comfy enough to be there for you after your first shower of (hopefully) washing away your jet lag. You may not be able to shop for something like a towel at your new home for a while after arriving depending on your location and scheduling so, you will be relieved to have this already set up and squared away. Having it around will save yourself from washing your face with a plain T-shirt for the first few days. Make sure it’s a convenient size to be your go-to towel for weekend trips and save yourself from spending 10 euro in Amsterdam on a towel that is so low quality that it just rubs the water around on your body instead of drying you effectively (I’m still bitter).

5. A combination lock.

Such a simple and small addition to your bag! You can use this to lock up extra currency and important documents like visas and passports in your room whether it’s in a dorm or your host family’s house. You can bring it on every weekend trip for your hostel locker or backpack zipper and avoid the headache of buying one there or dealing with hostel rental fees!

6. A large comfy scarf.

Keep it both purposeful and fashionable!

Whether you’ll be away during the fall or spring semester there’s going to be some chilly days. Bringing an all-purpose scarf with you will keep you comfortable in multiple ways whether it’s as a classic use for warmth, a head wrap from the sun or a personal blanket to sit on for a picnic or outdoor activities. This scarf will become a key piece for all of your outfits!

Heed my advice, take these necessities and remember to be mindful of weight limits when packing all of the rest!