From obtaining a residence permit to packing for four vastly differing seasons, planning to study abroad can be stress inducing to the highest degree. Luckily, most programs give you a detailed list of instructions on how to complete the basic paperwork (ie. visas, health insurance, etc.), but I have found that there are a few matters that should be added to this list. So here is a compiled list of things to accomplish a week or two prior to your departure.
1. Notify your bank!
As twenty-somethings, some people still have their parents manage their finances while others do not, but I severely advice you to set up your own travel notice to your bank prior to leaving. This way when you plan a last minute weekend trip, you are able to do it on your own without having to call home. It is rather easy to do and allows you to feel a bit more ready to live on your own in another country.
2. Prepare a First Aid kit.
This may seem like an over cautious addition, but it is important to always be prepared! You never know when you may need some antiseptic or motion sickness medication. My program specifically mentioned that students bring a tick remover as we will be hiking in the Swiss-Alps several times a week for class and the tick population is apparently abundant in Freiburg. Again, better safe than sorry.
3. Check your airline’s baggage requirement.
For those who have not previously travelled to Europe, budget airlines have different policies than domestic US airlines when it comes to luggage. It is important to check the weight and size requirements of all luggage (carry-on and checked). That way when you show up to the airport you are not hit with another fee.
4. Make copies of all cards and IDs.
Nothing is worse than losing a credit card or ID domestically let alone internationally where you have to wait for your bank to issue you a new one and ship it halfway across the world; this is especially true for passports. I made 3 copies of every card and ID I had (insurance, credit card, drivers license, passport, etc.) prior to leaving. With one set of copies I created a folder for my family to have at home just in case and the other two I saved to bring with me to Germany. That way I do not have to make other copies there and have extra in the absolute worst case scenario.
5. Make a travel itinerary.
While I do not have all of my travel plans squared away, I did make a travel itinerary with flight numbers/departure times, hotel addresses, and contact information. This way I have all my plans in one document. I also added this to my family’s folder, so they had hard copies of my travel plans that they could reference at any time.
6. Optional: Purchase a travel wallet.
This is entirely a personal preference, but with my experience I feel so much more prepared at customs with a travel wallet. It allows me to have everything I need (ie. passport, cash, card, and ID) in one place and guarantees that I do not lose anything. This is also a great way to have your residence permit on hand at any time, but again a personal preference.
With only a few weeks until I depart for Germany, I have a few more things to square away, but after having completed the above tasks, I feel much more prepared.