Packing and moving to college is always stressful, especially if you’re moving to another country. If you don’t know where to start with your preparation, here’s a little guide that will make things much easier. Have a look and take notes.
Apply for a passport and visa
To travel and study abroad you must have a valid passport. If you already have your passport, make sure to check the expiration date (also be sure that it won’t expire within 6 months of your stay).
Besides your passport, you may need a visa for your stay. Different countries have different visa requirements, and it’s best if you contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the country you’re planning to study in to gather information about visa requirements and any special travel restrictions. Both passports and visa applications can take some time to process, so make sure you apply well in advance.
Check the college website for move-in policies and banned items
College websites usually contain much useful information about student volunteers who can help you when you arrive. It might also have some parking info, campus maps, and moving-in schedules. College websites should also contain a list of banned items. For example, some campuses ban coffee makers, kettles or extension cords. The list varies from college to college and country to country, so make sure to give it a look.
Plan for 3 to 6 months
When you’re moving far away from home, it’s not very likely you’ll be visiting your home every week, so try to pack for the next three to six months. Consider changing seasons, and bring some essential pieces you’ll need in the fall and what can carry you through to the winter.
But, don’t bring every jacket, coat and pair of shoes you own, rather pair down as much as possible. When you think logically, you’ll realise that your fall clothes can substitute for spring quite easily, so don’t pack separate clothes. And avoid bringing things you might wear once or twice. Stick to essentials and leave “maybes” at home.
Plan on buying things there
Don’t stock up on things you can easily find at your destination such as school supplies, toiletries, and canned food. All of these are probably available everywhere around your campus. It’s more fun to go shopping after you arrive and get to know your new city. Also, don’t bother taking your textbooks and books from home. You’ll be able to purchase all course books at your new school, plus you’ll have access to libraries and bookstores at your destination.
All the stuff that you’re not planning to use immediately can be packed and shipped later. If you have some extra time you can even box it up and prepare it for shipping, and leave instructions for your parents or friends to send it later. You might want to decide how do you want your things to be shipped and discuss the best options with your family. You can call moving experts like trustworthy Brisbane removalists. They will take care of your things in the most professional matter and will protect all of your precious belonging during transport.
Get Travel Insurance
Visit your doctor and do a complete physical before leaving to ensure you’re in top shape. Ask for a copy of your medical records to take with you in the case of an emergency abroad. Also, it’s important to know if there are some immunisation requirements you must fulfil before you depart.
Even though it’ll probably never come to that, it’s always smart to have a reliable health and accident insurance policy while you are studying abroad. You can also get coverage for emergency evacuations and repatriation, just in case.
No matter how hard you try, you’ll probably forget something at home, but we hope this guide will make sure that you pack all of your most important things. Bon voyage and good luck!
Special thanks to Lana Hawkins for providing us with this article. Lana is an architecture student and a crafty girl from Sydney, Australia. She loves writing in her free time, as well as reading about sustainable architecture.
