A common question about studying abroad is what to pack. I think the most important thing to keep in mind when packing is that you don’t need nearly as much stuff as you think you do. My trip was 16 days and I (even as a female) was able to make it with only carry-on luggage. There were plenty of people on my trip with a massive suitcase and a carry-on filled to the brim – some even had to get another bag while they were in Europe just to carry the new stuff they bought. You’re probably wondering why I only brought a carry-on suitcase and a small backpack, and how I managed to get by for over two weeks with such a small amount.
Due to my study abroad trip being split between two countries, we had to take a small plane from London to Lisbon. Many airlines going between European countries have strict weight limits. I was limited to 22 lbs for my carry-on and about 4.4 pounds for my personal item. My carry-on was actually able to fit way more than this, but if it weighed over 22 lbs I would either have to check the bag for free ahead of time or, if I took the bag to the gate and it was over the limit, pay a ridiculous overweight carry-on fee. I hate ridiculous fees, so I made sure that my bag weighed under 22 lbs before I left my house because my flights were so close together on the way back home that I didn’t have time to check the bag and I did not want to pay that extra fee. However, even if you are not in this situation there are other benefits to packing light. You are way faster when traveling through the airport and it’s easier to maneuver around people. Also, if you plan to take public transportation from the airport to your hotel, you don’t have as much to carry up steps or drag through the cobblestone streets. Another perk is that you will have plenty of space to fit all the amazing things you buy on your trip!
So how does one pack so light? Here are my tips:
- You don’t need as much as you think you do.
- Take as few shoes as possible – yes, I know it sucks, but you really don’t need them – bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes and match all your outfits to them. White sneakers are great for this cause they can be dressed up or down. It’s all you need.
- Realize that you don’t have to bring EVERYTHING you need through the airport. You can buy travel-size toiletries once you get to your destination. For shampoo, you can either use the free hotel shampoo or buy some at a shop nearby. I would recommend bringing makeup from home, BUT don’t go overboard. Bring the bare minimum.
- Clothes – fun fact, you can actually wash things in your hotel – fill the tub with water, toss in a laundry sheet, swish everything around, let it soak, wring dry, and then hang on the hotel hangers.
- Purposefully bring less than you actually need, and just buy some new outfits on your trip. If you’re going to be in a city, there’s probably a mall nearby with cute outfits you might not be able to find in the U.S. Go shopping, but keep it to a reasonable amount if you’re trying to keep your luggage light.
Happy packing!!!