If you have firmed up your plans to study abroad in China or another Pacific Rim country, you are in for the adventure of your life ' so it pays to be prepared. Packing for what is likely to be three to six months or even a year living and studying in a foreign country is not something that should be left until the last minute. Plan ahead, follow this guide carefully and whether you are going to study in Korea, Japan, China or Southeast Asia, you will have a pleasant and exciting learning experience.
1: Carry-on Luggage
Of course, as they attempt to maximize profits by stuffing as many passengers onto an aircraft as possible, airlines are now placing restrictions on what one can carry on board in terms of luggage ' and since there are now surcharges for checked baggage, competition for those overhead storage bins is likely to be brutal.
On the other hand, there are certain documents and other necessities that you absolutely must have with you at all times:
' Your passport (naturally!)
' Your ticket and boarding pass
' A 3-4 supply of cash in the currency of your destination
' Toiletries and a spare change of clothing, should you and your luggage be separated
' An acceptance letter from the institution at which you will be studying
' A cell phone or long distance card
' A list of everything contained in your checked baggage (should you need to file an insurance claim in the event it is damaged or lost
In addition, you should have copies of such documents such as a birth certificate and your passport as well as photo ID, credit and debit cards, and travelers' checks. These should be carried on your person, preferably in a secure pocket that would be difficult for thieves to access.
If you take any medications on a regular basis, remember that such medications may be difficult to obtain while you study in China or other foreign country. You should have enough to last through the duration of your stay. If this is not possible (for example, you are an insulin-dependent diabetic and are planning to stay longer than four weeks), check with your primary care physician. S/he will have information on how you should deal with this situation should it be necessary.
Also keep in mind that certain items, such as razors and shampoo tubes are not allowed aboard flights in the U.S. Taking a laptop computer is not advised, since the NSA and Department of Home Security are known to confiscate these upon your return for any reason.
Checked Baggage
Be aware that there are frequently limits on the amount of baggage you can check today, and baggage that is over these limits may be subject to hefty surcharges, or disallowed altogether. It's best to travel light ' and leave some room for any souvenirs you may be brining home.
Keep in mind that when you study in Korea or China, you will be living in a temperate zone with four distinct seasons; summers can be unbearably hot, while winters can be brutally cold. Consider the time of year; it may actually be more cost-effective to purchase your seasonal clothing in your destination country, however.
One item you need to have is a good, sturdy and comfortable pair of shoes or boots for walking and hiking. You should also have more copies of the essential documents with your luggage in case those you are carrying should be lost.
The secret is to prepare well in advance and take only what you need.
Wayne Hemrick tells you why--you should
