You’ve been accepted to an awesome study abroad program, you’re anxiously counting down the days until you depart, and finally it’s time to address the toughest part of the process: what should I pack for study abroad? You and pretty much every study abroader who has come before you has panicked over the same thing, so you’re definitely in good company!

Trying to stuff your whole life into one or two suitcases is daunting, especially since you probably don’t really know what’s waiting for you when you step off the plane. If you fall a bit more on the Kevin McCallister side of packing than you’d like to admit, our study abroad packing list is here to help.

How much luggage are you bringing to study abroad?

Every airline has different baggage requirements, so be sure to check this carefully. Even if your airline allows two checked bags plus a carry-on, do you actually want to lug all of that around? Just because you can bring it doesn’t mean you should. Decide upfront how much stuff you really want to carry and then stick to it. Two 50-pound bags don’t sound like much until you’re sprinting through Heathrow with them!

Official study abroad packing list

With all of these factors said, it’s time to start packing. These are basic guidelines to follow and can be tweaked to fit your needs/study abroad location, so don’t be afraid to get creative with this and tailor it.

Clothes to pack for study abroad

² All of your standard shirts, pants, dresses and other go-to clothes

² Comfy but classy travel clothes (leggings, sweaters, etc.)

² Comfortable shoes for walking in sun, rain, snow, etc.

² Flip flops to use as shower shoes in hostels

² Workout clothes and shoes to keep off the study abroad 15

² Jacket for chillier weather – it gets cold even in the desert at night

Electronics to pack for study abroad

² Mobile device + charger

² Laptop + charger + padded case

² Power adapters

² Camera (see which cameras we recommend for study abroad)

² E-reader for long trips

² Portable power bank

Miscellaneous to pack for study abroad

² Passport + visa (if applicable)

² Student ID, driver’s license, and any other identifications

² Copies of your passport + visa + IDs

² A small backpack for day trips

² Cross-body purse or secure wristlet to prevent theft

² Small lock for hostel lockers

Tools to help you pack for study abroad

² Portable luggage scale (so you don’t get hit with overweight baggage fees)

² Space bags (go for the no-vacuum-required ones)

² Small lock for any zippers on your bags

² Luggage tag + ribbon/something to help identify your suitcase at baggage claim