Packing Tips for Overseas Travel Part 1

How you pack for overseas travel always depends on where you are going and how long you will be gone. Here are some general rules of thumb that can be applied for most overseas trips and adventures.

Less is Better – The number one rule to remember is that you will be responsible for carrying everything that you bring, so only bring what you can carry! This includes carrying luggage up and down flights of stairs, in and out of taxis, cars and buses. Also remember to pack a carry-on bag with a change of clothes, essential toiletries (remember to check latest ruling on liquids over 3 ounces in your carry-on) and all of your documentation (passport, travelers checks, letter of acceptance into your program, health insurance card, International SOS card), because sometimes checked-through baggage doesn’t arrive at the same time as it’s owner.

A good method of packing for a long stay is to lay out everything you think you will need, and then put half of it back. You will be surprised at how easy it is to get along without half the clothes you think you need. Besides, most countries have clothing shops, and you are bound to purchase a few things for yourself (and others!) while you are there. Remember that whatever you buy overseas you will have to find room for in your suitcases and lug back with you. You really don’t need to take more than two or three pairs of trousers, shirts and shorts. Learn how to get along with less. The lighter your baggage, the more pleasant your journey will be.

You will find that washers and dryers might be more scarce overseas than in America, so bring clothing that won’t require too much care. Be prepared to wash clothing out in a basin if necessary.

Be culturally sensitive – Another point to remember is that many people in other countries are astonished and put off by how many clothes Americans have. You may think that it’s normal to change your clothes everyday – or even more than once a day – but in other parts of the world people may wear the same clothes several days in a row. In some cases this is because they can’t afford to buy clothes in the same quantities as Americans, but it is also partly because there isn’t as much room to store clothes overseas.

Be aware of how other people dress, and how often they change. You might notice that your own clothes appear new and expensive next to those worn by other students. Try to fit in a little by dressing like your hosts. Avoid wearing university logo attire, if possible, as this immediately singles you out as a foreigner (and a target for pickpockets and other criminals). The more you make the effort to follow the examples set by your hosts, the more you will start to feel a part of your environment, and you won’t stand out like a ‘loud American’.

Closets are small – You will probably find that in other countries the closets or wardrobes are considerably smaller than what you are used to, so if you take a large amount of clothes with you, you won’t have anywhere to put them. You will probably also have to buy hangers once you arrive, as these usually aren’t provided.

Rain Gear – You will definitely need some rain gear no matter where you go. A thin waterproof coat with a hood is better than thick ski jacket-like clothing. Umbrellas can be useful, but they are also often awkward to carry along narrow streets and sidewalks. Take a hat, or buy one over there. Avoid cowboy hats and baseball caps, as these types of headgear will immediately identify you as a US citizen, which may not be safe at times.

Layers for warmth – If the climate in your host country is likely to be cold and damp, you will probably need a couple of good sweaters, preferably the kind that will fit inside your coat or jacket. Layering clothes is especially effective in cold, damp weather, but you don’t want to end up looking like the Michelin Man. Long underwear can be quite useful for both men and women, and it can double as sleepwear. You’ll also want some gloves and a scarf, and probably a good pair of hunting (wool) socks in colder climates for wearing around your room.