The OIP recommends that students take only as much luggage as they are physically capable of carrying: at most, two standard sized pieces of luggage plus one carry-on. Students may be the only person responsible for ensuring their luggage arrives at their study-abroad site. The less luggage brought, the less to keep track of.
The OIP also does not suggest shipping luggage. It is very expensive to ship from the U.S. and may be twice as expensive from another country back to the U.S. Students may also have to pay a heavy duty to receive the goods. (This is especially important to remember in Latin America!)
At many study abroad sites, computers may be available for student use. However, students should not expect to have computer labs like those found at UM. In most places, there will be fewer computers per person, the technology may not be current, and the access hours will be somewhat restricted. Students should not be overly concerned since other students will find themselves in the same situation - everyone will make do with the resources available. Some students choose to bring their own personal computers. The OIP generally does not recommend this. The computer may become a burden since a student must keep it with them en route to the host country and keep it in a safe place while studying. Bear in mind that computer theft is common in all parts of the world. If a student chooses to bring a laptop, they need to make sure it is adequately insured and their work is saved on floppy disks as well as on the hard drive.
Students living with a host family should take a token gifts from the U.S. to share with the family (where applicable) and with various other people they meet during their time abroad. Popular items include those with a logo from the University of Michigan or a students home state or city. Other suggestions include t-shirts or mugs, American cookbooks, and calendars with photos from the U.S. Many students come back from study abroad having made close and lasting friendships in their host countries. Students may also consider taken extra photographs of themselves to leave with their new, international friends. (There may not always be access to film or developing services.)
Most countries operate on a different electrical current than in the U.S. It is often more economical for students to purchase certain appliances (such as hair dryers) once they arrive in their host country. This is a way to avoid shorting an American appliance even when using an adaptor plug (to plug in your appliance) and converter (which changes the electrical current). Battery-operated appliances (such as alarm clocks) are another alternative.
Students should take only the essentials and take clothes that can be easily washed and dried. Several companies specialize in travel clothing made from tencel, micro fiber, and other materials that are compact, light and can be drip-dried. Be careful not to pack too much. Many past students report that they packed more than they needed. Students will be able to purchase many items overseas. Students should not bring expensive jewelry, watches or other accessories, since they are especially vulnerable to theft while traveling. As a general rule, the OIP suggests students do not bring anything they could not bear to lose, whether its value is monetary or purely sentimental.
Many of these are available in other countries, but students should bring enough to get to their destination and allow time to settle and get oriented:
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