What should I bring on my first study abroad trip?

These tips are for your first trip abroad: Have you ever dreamed of traveling to a country far from home? Studying, working and living in a new culture for a while? Why not? If you haven't left your country yet, this could be your chance to take the big step! However, it can also be a very scary experience, especially for your first trip, so in this article we have made some simple steps as tips for your first international trip so that you feel more at ease after your experience abroad. Below is a summary that most of our international students agreed with:

1. A Smartphone.

The truth is that many cell phone models have high quality cameras, which is why we only recommend this item that performs many functions at once. Most of the students we have asked agree that when buying a cell phone you should take into account aspects such as memory, operating system, battery, size and features that each user expects from such a useful tool today to stay connected.

2. Comfortable, versatile, and easily packable clothing and shoes.

Yes, it's difficult (and sometimes expensive) to find clothes that fit this bill. However, it's worth the effort and expense to find clothes that you can travel well in, even if it takes you several years or trips to build up a solid travel wardrobe. Think about buying clothes that are lightweight, wrinkle-free, versatile, easily packable (it's beneficial, for example, to find clothes that fold well, and can be easily crushed to make more space), and when you're settled in your destination country you'll be able to buy seasonal clothing if necessary considering the climate you'll experience.

3. A laptop or tablet. This is not mandatory.

However, if you must have a laptop, I recommend that you buy a lightweight computer, it is easier to carry. Remember to also bring access to a USB flash drive so you can transfer your images, college work, etc. in case for some reason you do not have access to the cloud. Another criterion that you could also review is the value of technology in the destination country where you are going, since you will probably be surprised that when you arrive in the country where you will study, there could be cheaper prices or discounts for international students.

4. A backpack or suitcase:

Instead of suitcases, many students invest in a high-quality, relatively large and lightweight backpack (yes, a backpack, one that can easily be placed on your back and carried with you without problems through airports, train stations, subways, etc.). A good travel backpack carries at least 65 liters; has a chest and waist strap (to help keep the weight off your shoulders and lower back); has room and a space for a water bottle and is covered with pockets and other waterproof compartments. However, a traditional suitcase is also the other option that will never let us down, we recommend that you look at the specifications of backpacks or suitcases when buying your airline ticket.

5. An open mind, your passport and some money.

Keep in mind that no matter what you pack, you can have a wonderful and amazing adventure no matter where you are in the world, even more so today with the ease that technology gives us using GPS or online/offline maps on our phones and with internet connectivity it is almost impossible to get lost. Whenever you go on a big trip, remember that all you really need is an open mind to adapt to new ways of living, your passport and money. Remember that everything will be fine as long as you plan your best experience!

Without a doubt, there are 5 essential tools that you should consider when traveling, which will help you and make your trip easier and more productive. Of all the points mentioned, the most important is to have an open mind, having a positive attitude towards new challenges will make your trip an unforgettable experience that you will always want to share.