Off to study abroad? Don't forget these 10 things!

Planning to travel abroad to study? Presenting you an essential list of things you must have in your backpack.

The admissions are over and you are all set to shift base. Before you start your packing, it is easier to list out your priorities. Here's a checklist of things that you need to be equipped with before going abroad.

Don't forget to pack:

1. Important documents (visa, passport, itinerary, flight tickets etc.)

2. Some cash in the local currency

3. Clothes and shoes, according to the climate of the country you are travelling to

4. One or two formal outfits for special occasions

5. Umbrella/rain coat

6. A pair of decent walking shoes

7. Toiletries (at least a month's worth, that will give you enough time to find a store in your neighbourhood)

8. Over-the-counter medicines or ones that you need and their prescriptions

9. An extra pair of eye glasses/contact lenses

10. A small backpack for day trips etc. That can also be your carry-on luggage in the flight

One important thing to check before travelling overseas is availing of Students' Foreign Travel Insurance. Although travel insurance primarily provides medical cover, you can choose a plan that suits you, as some companies include additional covers.

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Meanwhile, also be careful about packing any unwanted items, as these will not only add to your baggage on the flight but also take up space in your accommodation abroad.

Think twice about packing any non-essential item, and if it's easier to buy it in your host country, just drop it. Here's a quick list

Do not pack:

1. Electrical appliances (the voltage often differs in other countries)

2. Extra cosmetics, toiletries etc. (if you run out of these, you will be able to buy them at your nearest)

3. Valuables or expensive jewellery

4. Anything else that you will not be comfortable carrying everywhere you go.

Some additional packing tips:

1. Ensure that you keep all your documents and passport-sized photographs with you at all times.

2. Keep a change of clothes and essential items in your carry-on bag, just in case your luggage happens to get lost.

3. Keep the numbers/contact details of friends and professors at your university handy.

4. If you are planning to stay with a host family, try to carry a small gift for them (preferably something from your region).

Amidst all the activity, do not forget to brush up your knowledge about the host country, weather, customs, food, festivals, people and so on.

Being an informed visitor would definitely help you derive the optimal experience out of your stay abroad.

Last but not the least; remember to keep an open mind to soak in all the new experiences.

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YoungBuzz India Ltd is a career guidance and people development company which regularly conducts career guidance, personality and soft skill development programmes, customised for various age groups and needs.