Travel Tips

Packing

Believe it or not, you need the same amount of clothing if you are traveling for one week or for two months!  When traveling internationally, most airlines will allow you to check two bags and bring one carry-on bag.  For most airlines, the weight limit is 50 pounds for each checked bag. However, remember that sometimes you will be carrying your entire luggage at once, lighter is better. Remember that you can buy almost anything you need in your host country, so don't overpack. However, things to consider bringing with you that may be hard to find in other countries include.

• Prescription medicines (enough to last your full time abroad)

• Extra prescription glasses and contacts.

• Routine medicines like everyday pain relievers, or cold medicine.

• Extra shoes if you have above-average-sized feet.

Also, remember not to check anything you wouldn't mind losing. We have had students in the past have things taken from their checked bags. If an item is precious to you, carry it on.

Booking Transportation

Google Flights is the most comprehensive flight search engine. It provides easy price comparison and a navigable interface. Make sure to note the time of your layovers before booking any international flights. One hour is not enough to make an international layover, don't risk your travel plans to save a few dollars on a flight with a short layover.

For train travel, every country will have a different website you need to use for purchasing tickets. Click here for information regarding purchasing train tickets in several European countries.

A good general travel site for booking tickets, or finding a route between two places is Rome2Rio. You can choose a route, and Rome2Rio will direct you to external websites where you can purchase tickets.

Remember that reserving a ticket in advance will ensure your travel is as stress-free as possible. Make sure to book far in advance if you are travelling on a holiday, as tickets will sell out fast.     

Accommodation

There are many different options for booking accommodations nowadays. If you are travelling with a group, Airbnb may be a good option. However, there are usually large service fees, so don't take the price at face value. 

Hostels are a popular option for young travelers as well. Hostelworld is a great site to book hostels. Remember that communal accommodation does bring about certain risks. Never book a cheap hostel unless you are sure it will be safe. If you see a very cheap nightly rate at a hostel, be sure to read the reviews before booking. Additionally, you should never stay somewhere you are uncomfortable just to save money. Paying an extra 25 dollars a night to have a private room can be well worth it.

For general hotel booking Booking.com       is a good option. Remember to read reviews thoroughly before booking a place to stay.

Communication while Abroad

Communicating with your friends and family while abroad has never been easier. Prior to departure, please check with your cell phone provider to see if you will have coverage in your host country. Wifi is common in most urban areas, but sometimes having data is the easiest way to get around. In most countries, people don't use the text message function on their phone, or exchange phone numbers. Typically people communicate on apps like WhatsApp or LINE. 

Laptops 

Bringing your laptop overseas can make your life easier for downloading photos and composing your homework and essays. However, there are some issues to be aware of before you take your computer abroad.

Electrical currents are different in many countries.  You will need to be sure that you have a plug adapter.  Talk to a computer store for more details

The theft of your laptop can be an issue.  Be sure you have insurance covering it in case it is lost, damaged, or stolen.

SIM Cards

As stated earlier, be sure to check with your cell phone provider about whether or not you will have coverage in your host country. If you don't have coverage, SIM cards can be easily purchased upon arrival in your host country. Additionally, E-SIM plans have become more popular recently. An E-SIM is a virtual SIM card that is projected onto your phone to give you access to data in various countries. If you are interested in seeing if there is E-SIM coverage in your country, we recommend the following service providers.

• Airalo

• Saily

• BNE SIM