Wednesday 23 January 2013

Essentials

I thought I'd write a little post on what I consider to be the essential items for a study trip abroad. When you first start thinking about what to pack it can be a little overwhelming and it's tempting to throw in everything including the kitchen sink, but consider what will you really need for day to day living and to preserve your sanity.
  • Multi-plug extension cable. This is a godsend and it saves you from getting adapters for all your electricals.
  • Plug adapters. Get a couple before you leave as they may be hard to find or very expensive once you arrive.
  • Laptop. You'll need it to study, talk to friends and family and to look at cute ickle kittens.
  • Clothes. An obvious one but you can't bring everything. Consider the climate, religious or cultural observations regarding dress (if any), and what you'll be doing. You don't wanna have to turn up for a job interview in scruffy jeans and Converse so think about all eventualities. 
  • Accessories. They make an outfit and can make an outfit into something else. Scarves, belts, jewellery can all change your look to make the limits of your suitcase much bigger.
  • Photocopies of documents. Take several copies of your passport, leave one with a parent so if the worst happens and yours is lost or stolen you can get a replacement much more easily. Also, photocopy your birth certificate, and your acceptance letter to the university. You'll probably need all these things to open a bank account and claim housing benefit. If you already have a copy of your rental agreement make a load of copies of that. You'll need it in France to claim APL from the CAF office and it doesn't hurt to have a few extras. 
  • Curlers, straighteners, hairdryer. You don't wanna have to rebuy these so pack them. This is where the extension cable comes in handy!
  • All your make up. Yes, I'm sure you could get away with a paired down make up bag but would you want to? Plus, painting your nails 15 colours is a great stress reliever!
  • Language dictionary and grammar book. You'll need to pick up the language and grammatical rules and these will help you along.
  • Tourist guide. Good for the maps, help with understanding public transport and finding out cheap things to do. 
Also, don't forget the bits that'll help save your sanity: Kindle, books, ipod, photos, and the things unique to your home or family. Oh, and your toothbrush. Don't forget that one!

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