By: Ava Giangrande

Studying abroad during the summer is an incredible opportunity to explore different cultures, meet new people, and create unforgettable memories. While it most definitely is exciting, it can also be overwhelming while figuring out what to pack, especially when limited to a suitcase or two. To help ease the packing stress, here’s a guide to necessities every girl needs for a smooth, stylish, and stress-free summer abroad.

Clothing: The trick is to bring basic and versatile pieces that you can mix and match, ensuring that you are prepared for everything from city sightseeing to weekend beach trips. 

• Light layers: Europe in the summer can vary- I suggest bringing a light cardigan or denim jacket for cooler evenings.

• Comfortable walking shoes: Whether you’re strolling through the streets or hiking scenic trails, you’ll need comfy sneakers or sandals. I was walking 5 miles or more every day to and from class, exploring the city, and meeting my friends for lunch. 

• Casual dresses & skirts: These are perfect and flowy options for looking chic while the temperatures rise, especially when it becomes too hot for jeans.  

• Swimwear: If you’re visiting the Amalfi Coast or the South of France, you need swimsuits and a light cover-up. 

• Accessories: Matching a fun purse, jewelry, or sunglasses is perfect when wearing a simple outfit. It’s the best way to spice up your look!

• Loungewear: When traveling on the weekends, the last thing I wanted to do was put on a nice outfit. I brought a workout set that was great for our long train rides and car rides and doubled for when I wanted to go for walks in the morning. And don’t forget your pajama sets- my friends and I hung out in our pajamas in our Airbnb’s to unwind after long travel days. 

Toiletries & Beauty Products: While many essentials can be purchased abroad, it’s best to pack your favorite brands and any must-have products that might not be available in Europe. 

• Travel-size toiletries: Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and skin care products in reusable bottles save space and meet airline regulations, but I opted to bring full-size shampoo, conditioner, and face wash all in my big suitcase because the pharmacies in Florence didn’t have the products I use back at home. 

• Sunscreen: Protecting your skin from the sun is a non-negotiable and pharmacies in Europe sell high-quality sunscreen! 

• Makeup basics: A tinted moisturizer with SPF, mascara, and a lippie are my go-to for the summer.  

• Hair Dryer: Instead of bringing my Revlon or Dyson, which could break due to the voltage, I had a hair dryer similar to a Revlon, but was made in Italy. This is because the voltages are different in each country. This also creates more space for packing instead of bringing a bulky hair dryer. 

• Toothpaste and Toothbrushes are available at the pharmacies, which are located on every block. Pharmacies will also carry products such as pain relievers, band-aids, and ointments. 

Travel Tech Must-Haves: Technology can make a huge difference in staying organized, connected, and being able to capture special moments while studying abroad.

• Universal travel adapter: Different countries have different outlets, so don’t forget a universal adapter that you need to charge your phone, computer, etc.  

• Portable charger: Exploring a new city all day drains your phone battery quickly, especially when taking pictures and looking on Google Maps. Having a portable charger was a lifesaver when I couldn’t go back to my room and charge my phone for a while. 

• Noise-canceling headphones: To travel to different places, you’re going to be taking mass transit such as a train or plane, which are both loud. Any sort of headphones are perfect for having quiet time while it’s noisy. 

• AirTags: These are an easy option to throw in your suitcase, backpack, or purse when traveling in a different country- you never know where your bag could get lost.

• A Camera: This is a must! Even though I have my phone, I brought my digital camera on all of our weekend trips and nights out, making my abroad experience more memorable.   

Documents & Travel Essentials: Keeping your important documents safe and organized is a top priority.

• Passport and visa: Ensure they are up to date! Keep them in your sight at all times. 

• Student ID: You may qualify for discounts on transportation, museums, and cultural sites. 

• Copies of documents: Keep digital and physical copies of your passport, visa, travel insurance, and health insurance in case of emergencies.

• Weekender Backpack: A big backpack that can fit all of your clothes, shoes, and travel documents is key for a 3-day trip. I’d recommend a bag such as a Calpack, which is an approved carry-on travel bag designed to fit all of your essentials! 

• Money essentials: I bought a leather wallet while in Florence, and brought a mix of Euros and my debit card. I suggest exchanging currency before going to Europe because there is less of a fee. 

Personal Comfort & Wellness: Staying comfortable and healthy will ensure you get the most out of your experience!

• Reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is key. I missed my Stanley while I was abroad because I was constantly buying plastic water bottles due to the heat. Heat exhaustion is real- it happened to one of my friends on our last day in Florence! 

• Reusable tote bag: This came in great use for grocery shopping, beach days, and for class. 

• Snacks from home: I don’t regret filling my carry-on with a few of my favorite snacks from home. I bought them at the airport and they lasted me the whole trip. These were great for holding me over between lunch and dinner and were great to have when traveling on the weekends. When I was in Florence, I saw very little American snacks.

Final Tips for a Stress-Free Trip! 

• Pack light and smart: You’ll want to bring souvenirs home, so leave some space in your suitcase. I was scrambling at the last minute in the airport on the way home to throw things out because I didn’t have enough room! Some of my friends even bought another suitcase in Florence to fill with their souvenirs. 

• Plan for laundry: Don’t overpack—doing laundry is inevitable during a long stay, so plan for it. My apartment came with a washer as well as drying racks so I ended up re-wearing more than I thought I would. 

• Stay flexible: No packing list is perfect, and you can always buy what you need once you arrive! 

• Be aware of your surroundings: It’s easy to get caught up in all of the beautiful sights around you, but make sure you stay aware and can see your belongings! Pickpocketers are very quick and can snatch something without you even realizing it. 

• Travel in groups: Never walk home alone! Even if you think you’re familiar with the area, a lot can go wrong. 

With the right essentials and tips, your summer study abroad will be unforgettable. Happy travels!