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Photo by Abigail Emsden '23 from Film & Media Studies DSP
Page last updated by PDP on 6 Jan 2026
🖥️ Consider Local Appliances
🖥️ Consider Local Appliances
Instead of transporting their own appliances and personal objects, some past students found it a better deal to buy products locally.
Many modern electronic products are dual voltage, but other appliances like hair dryers or electric toothbrushes may need an adapter and voltage converter.
🔌 Voltage Adapters
🔌 Voltage Adapters
Foreign countries and locations may have different electric plugs and voltages than the U.S. It's recommended that you research your destination's electric situation and that you buy a universal travel adapter before you leave.
🪫 Energy Use & Conservation
🪫 Energy Use & Conservation
Many non-U.S. locations are more conservative about energy consumption.
Many non-U.S. locations are more conservative about energy consumption.
Students should respect the use of utilities according to local resources and norms. It is respectable to turn off air conditioners (A/C) and other appliances when leaving your residence.
International Phone Plans
International Phone Plans
📱Cell Phones
📱Cell Phones
You are responsible for your own mobile costs. Some students choose to pay for U.S. carrier "international day passes", though that cost can quickly add up. Other students choose to purchase an eSIM or local SIM card (provided their phone is unlocked). Please research cell phone usage, availability, and options in your program location.
🤳Wi-Fi Linked Apps
🤳Wi-Fi Linked Apps
Many free or affordable apps allow you to communicate using the internet and/or Wi-Fi connections. WhatsApp is popular around the world. Others exist as well, so be sure to have one or more alternate methods of Wi-Fi communications on your phone and let family members know to use these apps to communicate with you.
📳 Calling Abroad
📳 Calling Abroad
Go to the “How to Call Abroad” website to learn about international and long-distance calling. The website has useful information relating to country entry and exit codes, search services, dialing instructions, and time zone conversions.
Dartmouth Libraries are available to you during your time away: research your destination, access Dartmouth library materials, and get help via Zoom or chat
Dartmouth Libraries are available to you during your time away: research your destination, access Dartmouth library materials, and get help via Zoom or chat
Internet
Internet
Internet access will differ depending on the program and the location. In many cases, Wi-Fi connections will be available in your housing. Students may also be able to use Internet cafés or Wi-Fi hotspots if Internet is not as easily accessible.
🔐 Cybersecurity
🔐 Cybersecurity
Traveling presents unique digital risks. Protect your identity and your ability to do schoolwork with these steps:
Duo Mobile: Ensure your Duo (or other authentication methods) is set up to work without cellular service.
VPN: Use the Dartmouth VPN with accessing library resources or any sensitive data.
Censorship: Research your destination's Internet Freedom. Some countries restrict access to social media or certain news sites. A VPN can help, but be aware of local laws regarding their use.
Have strong security (passwords, fingerprint, face scan, etc.) on all electronic devices and keep track of them.
Review Dartmouth's IT Security Guidelines While Traveling Internationally.
💻 Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
💻 Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
Consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to protect yourself and your data. One option is to download and use Dartmouth’s VPN.
🌐 Internet Freedom
🌐 Internet Freedom
Please be careful about your laptop’s security while accessing the internet at non-secure locations.
Be aware that different countries may have different restrictions and laws on file-sharing, acceptable content, and censorship. Research this before you depart for your destination.
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