Larizah on Location: Packing for Study Abroad
Packing to Begin
Before coming to Madrid, I thought packing would be one of the easiest parts of studying abroad… I was mistaken. Even after a semester's worth of researching, I still found myself asking, “What if I need this?” while trying to fit my entire life into one suitcase. What I’ve learned since arriving is that packing isn’t about bringing everything you might need, it’s about bringing what will support you as you build a new routine abroad. Wherever you are studying abroad, you’re creating a temporary home. Allowing you to quickly discover what you truly use and what you could’ve left behind. Packing is the first step in your study abroad experience, and just like cultural adjustment, it’s a learning process.
Packing the Essentials
Of course, there are the non-negotiables that make your experience abroad possible! Be sure to pack your passport, any required visa, health insurance information, a list of emergency contacts, and debit or credit cards. While this might seem like a lot to keep track of, the UA Study Abroad Office is always there to help guide you through the requirements for your specific program!
I also recommend keeping both physical and digital copies of all your documents stored somewhere easily accessible, like an Outlook folder or Google Drive. Throughout the process, whether it’s the Study Abroad Office, your partner university, or your application portal, you may be asked to provide these documents again, so having them organized ahead of time will save you a lot of stress.
One of the best pieces of advice I can give is to always keep these essentials in your carry-on! While it’s unlikely, luggage can sometimes get delayed, so it’s important to keep your documents with you. Having everything organized and within reach will make your arrival and first few days much smoother, allowing you to focus on settling in rather than worrying about logistics.
Packing with Intention: Clothing
If there’s one area where students tend to overpack the most, it’s clothing. I definitely fell into this category, bringing items “just in case” that I haven’t worn once. What I’ve learned is that versatility is key. Packing clothes you can mix and match makes getting dressed easier and saves space in your suitcase. Neutral colors and staple pieces go a long way, and layering becomes your best friend when adjusting to different temperatures. Since I was born and raised in Arizona, even a little snow in Madrid was a huge adjustment for me and layering became essential!
I would also recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes. Think about your habits at home and how they’ll translate into your time abroad. For me, staying active is important, and living in Madrid has shown me just how much walking becomes part of your daily routine, from commuting to class to exploring the city!
It’s also helpful to be mindful of local style and cultural norms. In Madrid, people tend to dress more polished, which inspired me to be more intentional with my outfits. I found myself developing a slightly more elevated style and naturally adapting to the city’s fashion! At the same time, you don’t need to completely change your style, just adjust and find what makes you feel confident.
Most importantly, leave space in your suitcase! You will find things you love abroad, and part of the experience is bringing a piece of that home with you.
Packing Realistically: Toiletries, Personal Items & Medicine
Toiletries are another area where it’s easy to overestimate what you’ll need. I quickly realized that bringing full-size products takes up unnecessary space and isn’t worth the hassle.
Instead, I recommend packing travel-size essentials to get you through your first week. Once you arrive, you can easily find everything else you need. While some familiar brands may not be available, there are always alternatives and trying new products can even become part of the experience!
It’s also important to bring any over-the-counter medications you think you might rely on. Having these on hand, especially during your first few weeks, can make a big difference as you adjust to a new environment. While you can find alternatives abroad, knowing what works for you provides peace of mind. Packing with intention in this category helps you stay prepared without overloading your suitcase.
Packing Smart: Electronics & Tech
When it comes to electronics, you don’t need to bring everything, just what supports your academic and daily life. For me, that meant my laptop for school, my phone, chargers for both, headphones, and a few portable chargers for long days out exploring the city. One item that quickly became essential, though, is a universal adapter! Depending on your study abroad location, outlets will be different, and having one from the start saves you unnecessary stress when you arrive. They’re easy to find in the United States, online or even through the Study Abroad Office.
It’s also a good idea to check the voltage compatibility of your devices to avoid any issues. For example, hair dryer voltage differs between Spain and the United States, so buying one after I arrived in Madrid ended up being the better option for me. Packing smart with your tech helps you stay connected, organized, and ready for both class and travel.
Packing for Comfort: A Piece of Home
While most of your packing focuses on practical items, don’t underestimate the value of bringing a few things that feel like home. The first few weeks abroad can feel overwhelming, and having something familiar can make a big difference. One of the UA Study Abroad Office coordinators recommended bringing printed photos of loved ones instead of relying on your camera roll. Not only does this give you a tangible piece of home, but it also helps you stay present instead of constantly looking back through your phone.
I would also recommend bringing a small sentimental item that reminds you of home. Whether it’s something from your childhood, a gift from a loved one, or even your favorite snacks, these little comforts can help ground you as you adjust. For me, I brought my Jellycat bunny, Finn, who travels with me and sits on my bed while I’m in class. These items may seem small, but they carry a sense of familiarity that can ease moments of homesickness and help you feel more settled in a new environment.
Packing for Growth
Something I didn’t fully realize before coming abroad is that I wasn’t just packing physical items, I was also preparing myself mentally for a completely new experience. No matter how carefully you pack, you’re going to forget something, and that’s okay. Studying abroad teaches you how to adapt, problem-solve, and navigate unfamiliar situations with confidence.
Packing lighter, both physically and mentally, allows you to be more open to these experiences. It creates space for growth, new perspectives, and unexpected opportunities. Looking back, I can confidently say that you don’t need a perfect packing list to have a successful study abroad experience. What matters most is bringing what helps you get started and trusting that you’ll figure out the rest along the way. Packing is just the beginning of your journey. Once you arrive, what truly shapes your experience are the routines you build, the people you meet, and the moments you choose to embrace.
If I could give one piece of advice, it would be to pack with intention, leave room for the unknown, and allow your experience abroad to shape you far beyond what you could ever fit in a suitcase!
You can keep track of all of my adventures on the Larizah on Location webpage!