Emily Fessler, from Pennsylvania State University , shares some of her top tips for traveling abroad. She writes:

When traveling halfway across the world, thinking about what to pack can be very overwhelming and stressful. Not to mention, having to master the challenge of making sure your suitcase doesn’t weigh over the limited 50 pounds so you don’t have to pay the extra baggage fee. So how does one exactly pack to spend a week over in a foreign country, which is 9,728 miles away? Through trial and error of my own experience I have a few packing tips to share with all of you.

1. Pack for the weather

Before beginning to pack, research the weather that you will experience during your trip. It is important to know what type of weather is coming your way in order to decide what type of clothing will be necessary. If it’s going to rain, pack the umbrella. If it’s going to be sunny, pack the bathing suit. If it’s going to be chilly, pack a light jacket. Being prepared for the weather is key to ensuring an enjoyable and comfortable experience. 

2. Bring sunscreen

Whatever you do, do not underestimate the Australian sun. Many people, including myself, find themselves to be “invincible” from the sun’s rays. Unfortunately, I learned that I am not so invincible as I turned into a great, red lobster after one day in the Australian sun. It is safe to say Aloe quickly became my best friend. So save yourself from turning into a lobster as well and pack lots of sunscreen but most importantly, wear it!

3. Necessities Only

When packing for my trip to Sydney in December of 2017, I found it very helpful to use my itinerary as a guide. The itinerary was very helpful in planning what to wear each day depending on that day’s particular activities. For example, one day I knew we were going to be hiking, so I packed an outfit that I would be comfortable. Another day we were planned to visit Manly Beach, so I made sure to pack a bathing suit. On one of the last nights we were scheduled to see an opera at the Sydney Opera House, so I packed a nice, formal dress to wear on the big night out. While packing, the one thing I kept in mind was to only pack the necessities. My biggest piece of advice is to make sure every article of clothing in the suitcase has a legitimate reason and explanation as to why and when it will be worn.

4. Carry-on

Considering that you will be on a flight for 15 hours, it’s important to pack a toothbrush and a couple changes of clothes. One suggestion for clothing I have is to pack a pair of pajamas. Sleeping on a plane can be difficult, so wearing soft and cozy pajamas can help make this a more comfortable experience. Another clothing suggestion I would recommend is to pack an outfit that you will wear on arrival day. Once you get off the plane, you will not have any time to change into a new outfit from your suitcase. By packing an outfit in your carry-on, you can change on the plane before arrival so you are refreshed and ready to take on day.

5. Pack Light

My final piece of advice is to pack light! It’s important to pack light to save room in your suitcase for all the treasures you will find while abroad. It is always fun to bring back special gifts for your loved ones at home. Sydney is full of unique boutiques and stores where you can find beautiful clothing and souvenirs. So pack light and save room for that one-of-a-kind, authentic boomerang that is waiting for you in Sydney.

Published: November 2018