As a former study abroad student and tour guide, I’ve learned that there are just some things I can’t live without while traveling. We all have different travel habits, but these are basics that everyone should have on hand. Here are the items that I believe are essential for your abroad packing list:

1) Denim Jacket

Weather warm during the day but a lil chilly at night? Denim jacket. Need something to tie around your waist because you’re gonna be adventuring from 8am to 8pm and you can’t predict the weather? Denim jacket. It’s versatile, it’s comfy, and it’s just nice to have on hand.

2) Adidas/Vans/Comfortable walking shoes

You’re gonna want something that can be functional on your adventures without feeling like they’re clashing with your outfit. I wear my Adidas to brunch, to the bars, on my weekend trips… you name it, they’re with me. The leather is easy to wipe off, and they’re just my go-tos.

3) Travel Towel

If you plan on traveling budget style (as I highly recommend), many hostels don’t offer towels or require you to rent them for a fee. And for beach destinations, you’re gonna want something to throw in your bag. I was gifted a travel towel before I came to Europe the first time and it has been my saving grace. It’s small so it takes up a lot less precious space in your luggage (we need all the room for cute ‘fits we can get, right?!), and it’s made of fast-drying material so all your stuff doesn’t get damp. They’re available on Amazon and are super affordable: the convenience is worth the $10-20 investment. I’ve linked the one I have here.

4) Sleep Sack

Like the travel towel, the sleep sack is something I never thought about before preparing for studying abroad. It’s essentially a sleeping bag, but instead of a thick blanket material, it’s a sheet with attached pillowcase. I use this in hostels so I am always sleeping in my own sheets. They are bedbug resistant and just make everything more comfortable. Even in places I know are super clean, it just gives me peace of mind-and it’s cozy! This is also available on Amazon for about $10-25, it is 100% worth every penny. Find it here.

5) Flip Flops

While we’re on the topic of cleanliness, I can’t stress enough the importance of flip flops/shower shoes. They’re cheap, lightweight, and easy to throw in bags. You’ll be very thankful that you have them for showering, roaming around your hostel, etc. I even wear mine in my apartment. Hit up your local dollar store or Old Navy to grab a pair before you leave.

6) Duffel Bag or Carry-On Suitcase

You’re gonna need a bag to throw all your stuff in for weekend adventures; something that is easy to carry works best and saves you a lot of hassle. I personally prefer a rolling suitcase, but if you plan on flying budget airlines like RyanAir or EasyJet you have to be very careful with their carry-on size requirements and the amount of luggage you are allowed to bring. You don’t want to end up paying excessive fees for simply trying to bring your weekend clothes aboard.

7) Backpack and/or Crossbody Bag

I’m personally the “mom friend.” I always have everything one could ever need on me - ibuprofen, bandaids, water, snacks - you name it, I have it. That being said, I travel around cities with a full backpack stocked with all the essentials. If you’re like me, it might be good to invest in a sturdy backpack that’s comfy but hard to pickpocket; certain brands sell pickpocket-resistant bags, or you can just stick a lock on one you have to ward off thieves. Or, if you prefer exploring on the lighter side, it’s great to have a good crossbody bag that you can throw across your shoulders. That way, you can keep everything right at your side at all times, it can double as a going-out bag, and you can enjoy your travels stress-free.

These are my top recommendations for things to bring abroad; stay tuned for my ultimate packing list for everything under the sun (coming soon)!