I'm planning to travel to London this summer with the USF in London study abroad program and starting the process of shoving enough of my life into a suitcase to get me through the 4-week trip abroad. These are some things I've done and learned along the way in preparation.

1. Buy some hard-shell luggage

You don't want to risk the chance of your stuff getting damaged on the flight over, it's a long trip and more durable luggage is really going to give you some peace of mind that all of your stuff will arrive safe and sound.

2. Your devices will need adapters and possibly transformers.

Totally not a techie here, but apparently devices in the UK not only have different prongs than they do in the US (adapters), but they also operate on a different voltage (transformer) than they do here. I'm leaning towards getting this one from Amazon because it seems to be able to do both.

3. Get an easy, low-maintenance hairstyle before you go.

I'm a natural girl, and as many of you know it's a very time consuming and high-maintenance lifestyle, something I simply won't want to waste time on. I plan on getting in as much explore time as I can which means cutting down on time spent in the mirror is a must! My time-saving solution is braids, and I have made an appointment 2 weeks before my grand adventure, just enough time to ensure the style isn't too tight for the 9-hour flight.

4. Get yourself a pair of sturdy sunglasses.

I wear prescription glasses, so any old $5 pair of sunglasses absolutely will not work for me. I've been putting off buying a pair with my prescription for a while now, and this trip gave me the perfect excuse to splurge a little. I got a pair of cool ones here that only cost me $80 including the prescription.

5. Pack a spare outfit in your carry-on.

Including undergarments! I've heard horror stories from other study abroad students about lost luggage, and they all advised that I pack a change of clothes and at least 2 pairs of undergarments in my carry on just in case the worst happens.

I'm really excited about this trip and can't wait to share all the awesome photos I plan to take while I'm abroad!