Things I Wish I Knew Before Studying Abroad

Samia Jannatul, Graduating Winter Term ’25, is a Political Science major studying at the American University of Rome this Fall 2024

I tend to be quite the over-packer, so I was well-prepared for many of these travel situations. However, some of my roommates hadn’t thought of these things beforehand and often came to me for extra essentials or advice. Being over-prepared worked in my favor, but it also highlighted how helpful it is to plan ahead for any unexpected needs.

1. Pack Sneakers (Emphasis on the S)

When you’re studying abroad, walking becomes your primary mode of transportation. Picture yourself strolling through charming cobblestone streets, climbing up scenic hills, or rushing to catch the last train home. All that walking takes a toll on your feet! 

When it comes to footwear, versatility and comfort are key—especially when you’re studying abroad and walking becomes a huge part of your daily life. Having a good rotation of sneakers can save your feet from pain and ensure you’re prepared for different activities and weather. Here are the three sneakers I packed and why they were perfect:

• Adidas Sambas: These are incredibly versatile. I could dress them up for dinner outings or dress them down for casual exploring.
• Nike Vomeros: My go-to everyday sneaker! These were ideal for all-day comfort, no matter how much walking or running around I had to do.
• Salomon XT-6: A lifesaver for bad weather and outdoor adventures. These handled rain, snow, and hiking trails like a pro.

Packing multiple pairs might feel like overkill, but trust me, having options suited to different needs is essential. Your feet will thank you!

2. Plan a Budget (And Actually Stick to It)

Traveling is exhilarating, but it can also be a fast track to draining your wallet if you’re not careful. Before you even book your flight, sit down and create a realistic budget. Think about accommodation, transportation, meals, and activities.

I created a Notes template and shared it with my roommates since we all had Apple devices. The template was a great way to organize and visualize our experiences, from budgeting to travel itineraries. However, we ended up bickering for weeks over how to set it up and what to include. In hindsight, if one of us had come prepared with a solid template beforehand, it would have saved us a lot of time and avoided unnecessary arguments.

Once you’re abroad, track your spending diligently. There are plenty of apps that can help you monitor your finances. Sticking to your budget will ensure you have enough money to enjoy your entire trip without resorting to eating instant noodles for weeks or skipping out on must-do experiences.

3. Bring More Flu Medicine Than You Think You Need

Getting sick while you’re abroad is never part of the plan, but it happens more often than you’d think. Whether it’s from a sudden weather change, long-haul flights, or just being exposed to new germs, illness can disrupt your schedule and put a damper on your experience.
To prepare for the unexpected, pack a well-stocked first-aid kit. Include essentials like pain relievers, fever reducers, cold and flu medicine, band-aids, and any prescription medications you might need. 

I brought one bottle of cough syrup from the States, but it was practically gone within two days because all my roommates caught a bug during their weekend trip. It didn’t take long to realize that we should have packed one each, as sharing one small bottle among all of us was far from enough.

Also trust me, hunting down medicine in a foreign pharmacy while sick is not how you want to spend your time.

4. Bring an Airplane Bag You’ll Love

This tip might seem minor, but it’s a game-changer! A small, lightweight airplane bag is perfect for keeping your essentials organized and within reach during travel. Use it to store your passport, phone, chargers, snacks, and any important documents you’ll need along the way. Having a separate bag specifically for flights or train rides is incredibly convenient. It saves you from having to unplug and pack items like the adapter you use daily in your apartment. This way, your travel essentials are always ready to go.

I also recommend packing small word search or crossword booklets. These are great for passing the time with friends during long trips, and they don’t drain your phone battery like scrolling on your device would. It’s a simple yet effective way to keep yourself entertained while preserving your electronics for when you really need them.

Published by Samia Jannatul

Samia Jannatul, Graduating Winter Term ’25, is a Political Science major studying at the American University of Rome this Fall 2024
View all posts by Samia Jannatul