Taking up new roles and drafting a new plan for life is exciting, refreshing, and extremely challenging. We are glad that you have finally decided to begin your study abroad journey.
A strong educational background is one of the best ways to stay ahead in this competitive world driven by passionate people full of energy to accomplish new things in life. It is our responsibility to prepare for an ever-changing world.
One great way to accentuate this experience is by studying abroad.
Regardless of the study destination you choose, preparing to study abroad is a super exciting decision. It is so compelling that you might forget to take care of some things before you take flight.
Stuffing your entire life into a bag and carrying it along for a long trip can be daunting. Let’s make it easier.
Here is the ultimate study abroad preparation checklist we have got for you!
Legal Documents:
This is a big one. Along with a valid passport, there are other documents you should be taking along. For example, you might need medical certificates in case of an emergency. These documents should be organized and in your bag, the very first thing.
Make sure to take your Visa and personal ID. Also, guess what? You can take that to as many museums and stores which offer student discounts. Ensure to keep a copy of your passport in the form of a soft copy or the hard copy.
Some countries require students to obtain an international certificate of vaccinations before leaving their country to study abroad. It can be obtained from the local department of health, travel agency, and certified doctors. It is for you to get vaccinated before traveling abroad and keep the certificate with you as proof.
Necessary Electronics:
We all have been in that place where our phone decides to die during some direst situations. Even if you have access to an electrical outlet wherever you go, you will still need a portable charger. Sometimes they become a lifeline. Be sure you pack it up for secure access!
Pick up the necessary electronics like your favorite headphones, the boombox speaker, etc.
Medicine Kit:
Put together a small medicine kit with the basics. While medicines are readily available in most parts of the world, it can be tough to get through the language barrier. Getting the individual pouches of pills/medicine is recommended. But don’t self-medicate, alright?
Gather home treasures:
Carry simple little treasures that remind you of your sweet home and your loved ones. We’re talking about the simplest of things like maybe a blanket, a photo frame of your family and friends, or even a favorite jar of pickle your mom had made. These things do have a positive effect on us when we’re at our lowest.
Munchies that remind you of home:
As much as you are excited to try the flavorsome Irish Coffee or the yummy French Pastries, there will come a time when you’ll crave your favorite Indian snacks. It doesn’t hurt to pack a box of namkeen or some Salted butter cookies in your suitcase. They might add a couple of extra pounds to your bag, but one bite of it, and you will feel the comfort of home.
Pack Smart:
Roll your clothes! Yes, you heard it right. Fold your clothes in the smallest size possible and try fitting them in the bag. This makes it much more organized and saves a lot of room in your suitcase.
Here is a glimpse of organizing messy clothes. Marie Kondo will show you how
Know about the Currency used:
Knowing the Currency and its value will save you from being deceived while exchanging your Indian Rupees. Knowing the exchange rate will give you a good idea of how much you are spending.
One important thing to be done is to open a local bank account at your study destination. Get suggestions from your university or some friends about the student-friendly banks, as those would benefit you by offering special student services.
Moreover, it is useful for easier transactions when you take up a part-time job or shop things online, send gifts to home, etc.
In-Flight Entertainment and Comfort:
You can anticipate a pretty long flight ahead. These long hours of your flight is indeed a great time to catch up on Netflix, read a book, and listen to music.
Make sure never to forget to add the below items to your packing list:
- Hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes
- Travel pillow and eye mask
- Wallet
- Emergency contacts and necessary addresses
- Address of the destination
This is the essential checklist of things to be packed before traveling to study abroad. Make sure your packing list is in place.
Free your mind and thoughts from fear and anxiety. Studying abroad is an experience of courage and ambition. Please make the most of it. Let no obstacles come in the way of your study abroad dreams!