Packing, Phones, & More

Packing

Rome is generally warm and sunny in the fall and spring, whereas the winter months usher in a damp cold - one not as bitter as Worcester can sometimes be - but a cold that requires a good winter coat nonetheless. You can expect temps in the 70-80s when the sun shines, and 30-degree temps from December through February. Because you will likely experience such a range in temperatures regardless of the length of your stay, you should pack both summer-like clothing and a warm coat. No kidding! It is a always good idea to pack layers and definitely bring rain gear, including a rain jacket and waterproof shoes. You will walk constantly in Rome, so make sure all your shoes are comfortable.

Make sure to bring your Laptop & adapter, and any Medications you may need. Beyond that, you will find whatever you need, almost regardless of what it is, in Rome.

Carry-on sizes in Europe are not the same as they are in the US. Your carry-on will be useless for subsequent travel if you do not get a carry-on that fits European planes. For inter-European travel a backpack is SUPER helpful! Note: you will be lifting and moving your own luggage wherever you go. If you cannot manage your own bags, you will not be able to get to your destination!

Don’t forget US to EU adapters for electrical outlets. Adapters for continental Europe are available on Amazon and at Walmart (and similar stores!). If you do forget adapters, a houseware/hardware store ("ferramento") in Rome should carry them.

Tips for Purchasing your flight

Milan Malpense airport is your final destination. When you arrive, CIEE staff will be there to greet you and help transport you to the city center.
We strongly advise that you purchase airline tickets that permit a change of date. Also, buy your tickets directly from the airline rather than a third-party vendor like Expedia or Travelocity, because making changes or cancellations is generally easier to do directly with the airline.
Research different airlines. Some will waive change fees, regardless of fare type. For other airlines it depends on the fare you purchase. Be sure to read all of the rules associated with any airline ticket before purchasing.

As indicated in the Study Abroad Acknowledgement and Release Form, Holy Cross is not responsible for travel expenses including but not limited to airline tickets and transportation to/from airports which result from program suspension or termination, schedule changes, flight changes, emergency evacuation, or any other exigency. Such expenses are the sole responsibility of the student.

Travel Day

On the day of your flight, make sure you have the following in your carry-on:

Passport stamped with your Italian visa and valid for at least six months after your return to the U.S.

Holy Cross Affidavit Letter
ISOS Coverage Letter
Euros - the amount you bring is up to you, but €100-€200 (euros) is a reasonable amount

*Remember: carry-on sizes in Europe & the UK are not the same as they are in the US. Your carry-on will be useless for subsequent travel if you do not get a carry-on that fits European planes. For inter-European travel I always recommend a backpack!

Sim Cards & Phone Plans

You are required to have a cell phone with the app Whatsapp (wifi/data texting) while studying abroad. Whatsapp is an international texting & calling app that our SA office will use this to communicate with you. You are not allowed to study abroad without a phone.

There are two primary ways of ensuring you have cell phone coverage while in Italy, and Europe more broadly:

Italian SIM card option: Once you land in Rome, seek out a local phone shop or related business and buy an Italian SIM card with pay-as-you-go options, including unlimited data. Many students prefer this option, which is typically cheaper than paying for expanded coverage while abroad. However, you may have to "unlock" your phone first; contact your provider to learn how to do this before you leave.
International phone plan: Contact your service provider and ask what they provide by way of international data plans for travel in the EU. Compare prices and options. Make sure you understand the rulers and restrictions and if there are any steps to follow immediately before and after you arrive abroad.

Required Apps

Whatsapp is a free international texting & calling app that our office will use this to stay in touch with you while abroad. You are required to have Whatsapp on your phone. Whatsapp operates on wifi, so you can start using it the moment you land in Italy, even if you don't use an international cell phone plan nor have purchased a local SIM card yet. All you need is wifi, which you can connect to at the airport.

ISOS

You are required to download the International SOS Insurance App. Once you land in Italy, you must open that app and press the "Check-In" Button. You should also press the "Check-In" Button any time you are traveling outside of Milan. This allows us to best contact/help you in the event of an emergency.

Page updated

Report abuse