Pre-Departure Checklist for Living Abroad
Vital Items Every Traveler Should Remember to Bring Overseas
Oct 17, 2009
When preparing to live abroad as a student or a professional, it is, in the midst of hectic pre-departure preparations, possible to forget something important. Here is a checklist of essential items for any world traveler planning an extended stay in another country.
Paperwork and Documents to Pack
Without a passport, it won't even be possible to leave the airport in the home country. So, just to be on the safe side, travelers should double-check that the passport is securely placed in carry-on luggage, wallet, or pocket. Other vital documents that may or may not be as obvious include:
- proof of program participation (if applicable; this means an acceptance letter to a study abroad or work program, or a "Congratulations, you're hired" letter).
- visa/work permit information (for citizens of some countries, it is possible to enter certain countries without a work permit or visa, but proof that it will be acquired, such as a completed and/or signed application, should be packed).
- alternate form of photo identification (this can include a driver's license or something like an International Student ID Card, or ISIC).
- passport-sized, biometric photos (though it is also possible to get these photos taken in the destination country, have them taken prior to departure just in case).
Items to Put in Carry-On Luggage
Be sure that items needed immediately upon arrival are in carry-on luggage. Luggage does get lost, and it's best not to risk placing anything important in checked baggage, such as:
- passport and all other important documents listed above
- a change of clothes (or two; this should include clean underwear, a clean shirt, and something for unpredictable or inclement weather such as a windbreaker)
- toiletries, as per international regulations for carrying on liquids (don't forget the clear plastic bag!)
- enough cash to get to the destination (apartment, host family's home, student housing) in the other country, as some forms of transportation or ticket machines may not accept credit/debit cards
Other Matters to Consider When Checking off Items to Pack
Remember to pack light; there are plenty of non-essential items that travelers often stuff into a suitcase that take up limited space.
Also be aware of finances: Always have enough money to last through the first few weeks of living abroad, as a paycheck or stipend may not come through until a few weeks into a program.
Important documents, combined with carry-on luggage that contains information needed immediately upon arrival, are all important items to put on an overseas travel list. Most important is to be prepared for the first few days, and even weeks, of living abroad. Most items, with the exception of course of those vital documents, can be purchased in the destination country.
