My study abroad experience taught me a lot, but there is one lesson that stands out: Do NOT overpack!
This blog post is a call back to my first post published before my exchange to South Korea titled “An Over Packer’s Guide to Packing.” In a hypocrite manner, I ignored my tips to pack light and simple. Instead, I shipped 3 boxes comprised of winter clothes, souvenirs, and miscellaneous items home. It cost me a lot of time, stress, and money. This post is a warning to those who call themselves an “Over Packer,” or “Shopaholic.” I would strongly advise to leave that label at home before you embark on your journey abroad.
My first tip was to “pack efficiently.” Unfortunately, I severely ignored this tip. I lugged around three suitcases that were filled with unnecessary clothes, shoes, and bags. This resulted in me and my friend struggling through the airport, and eventually the icy terrain of Seoul, South Korea in February. Granted, the three suitcases idea was smart, but the packing was ignorant. If you do bring that many suitcases, put an empty, small one inside the larger suitcase. Consequently, you have less to drag around the airport and an additional suitcase to fill with goodies to bring home.
“Build your packing list around the weather estimates of your travel destination.” Ha ha…clearly, I did not listen to that! I brought too many bulky winter items that were worn once or not at all. Truth is there are many items that you can easily find at your travel destination, should you really need them. I understand the feeling of having to be prepared for your exchange but the line between being over prepared and prepared is thin.
The third tip was recommended by my friend: “pack and re-pack again.” Yikes, I did not do that. I left my packing three days before my trip. Never again. There is too much stress during that time to see things in a clear, logical manner. Furthermore, it is not fair to get assistance from friends and family during that small of a time limit. In my case, my parents were equally, if not more, stressed than I was. If you do ask for help, try tag teaming a good 2-3 weeks in advance.
Finally, the last, and only tip I followed was “account for emotional baggage.” I fortunately brought a couple of small trinkets with me from home, like my stuffed animal, that helped me adjust during times of homesickness. The important thing was that I kept these items to a minimum. Therefore, I did not have to send them back in boxes!
So, let my experience be a cautionary tale. To all future travelers, heed my advice and pack efficiently. You and your wallet will be thankful.