Going to University Abroad: What to Bring
Going to University Abroad (2): What To Bring In the previous article we have mentioned some important aspects to consider before you take your flight and go to your dream university. In this article, we are going to discuss what items to put in your travel bag to help you pack wisely. Airlines have different luggage policy. We advise that you confirm it with your respective airlines (go to their website). Some airlines such as Garuda Indonesia, offers a maximum of 40 kg of luggage for students – a real generous weight that is nearly double the standard luggage weight for international flights. Okay, now let's begin.
- Proper clothes
As we mentioned in the first article, you need to check the current season in the country you are heading to so that you pack proper clothing. By proper we mean those you are going to practically wear, not what you think you are going to wear. You do not need to pack your entire wardrobe to your travel bags. Pick neutral clothes that can be used for various occasions such as plain white shirts and jeans. Use vacuum bags to save space in your luggage. Do not forget to bring batik shirt for formal ceremonies in the local Indonesian embassy. If you are a business major student, you might also need a suit.
- Shoes
Sneakers, formal shoes or boots? It seems that you might need all three of them, but there is always a solution that covers them all. Men can try safety / adventure shoes: they are comfortable, waterproof and look quite presentable, which means that you can use this type of shoe for almost all occasions. Women can try sneakers or flat shoes; it is unlikely that you are going to attend a cocktail party everyday so better leave those collections of high-heels at home.
- Toiletries
Shampoo, soaps, toothbrush, toothpaste, razors, brush, combs, deodorant and any other cosmetic products – prepare one month of supplies and pack them into zip bags. You also need nail clippers, tissues, clean towels, hairdryers (optional) and over-the-counter medicines such as aspirins for fever or colds. You could take herbal medicines too, but some countries have strict policies about such medicines. It is better to check the rules on the immigration website first.
- Electronic supports
Did you know that each country have different types of power outlets? Although it may sound trivial, it could be annoying if you do not anticipate it well (imagine that you are unable to charge your dying phone after hours of long flight simply because it cannot be connected to the power outlet!) The solution is to bring a universal travel adaptor – you can easily buy one from local electronic store with reasonable price. These adaptors have various modes and you can adjust them to your local power outlets easily.
- (Memorabilia?)
Photos of your family, friends, or even your pets could be an effective medicine for homesickness. Slip some photos of your loved ones in your laptop bag or notebook. Or maybe save them digitally in your phones so you can look at them whenever you miss home.
