Though I may not yet be able to call myself a world traveler, I’ve always considered myself a savvy traveler.
For some, preparing even for a week-long excursion can be a lengthy ordeal. Should I bring a winter jacket? What’s the pants-to-underwear ratio? How many iPhone charging cords will I lose?
I’ve become adept at the art of speed packing. The flight takes off in three hours? Piece of cake. As much as I’d like to say preparing for my semester in Maastricht, the Netherlands, has been this simple, I can’t. There are many factors at play.
I’ll be there long enough for seasons to change. I need to prepare for the weather. Should I bring most of my toiletries, or should I take care of those necessities once I arrive? Beyond the basics, I’ve got to account for notebooks and school supplies as well.
Although an extended trip like this one requires more thoughtfulness, it doesn’t necessarily mean it has to be any more complicated. As a very wise man once said, “keep it simple, stupid.”
To anyone planning a semester abroad, my central piece of advice would be to pack simply but efficiently.
Even though I’ll be out of the country for more than four months, I am only bringing one large suitcase, which I will check at the airport, and my backpack, which I’ll carry on the plane.
Too often, when it’s time to return home at the end of a trip, I find myself scratching my head trying to figure out how I managed to fit my belongings into the bags I brought them in. This time, to account for souvenirs and gifts I may purchase, I’ve left a little bit of breathing room in my luggage. If it’s not full, don’t go out of your way to make it so.
As for which clothes to pack, make sure to become at least roughly familiar with the local culture. In the Netherlands, for instance, normal everyday attire is more formal than it is in the United States. NBA jerseys and tanks may be standard on IU’s campus, but they would likely draw some stares in Maastricht.
In many European countries, petty theft ranges from rampant to not uncommon. As such, some people conceal their valuables in a money belt that is worn around one’s waist, which is not extremely touristy.
It’s up to the individual whether or not they go full dad mode in theft-proofing themselves. Everyone should have back-up documents of one’s driver’s license, passport and acceptance letters. Losing a passport and not being able to prove an identity could be a nightmare, so take the extra 30 minutes to make sure you’re covered. The alternative may be waiting for replacements via mail, and who knows what complications that could cause.
Packing for a long trip may be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. When in doubt, keep it simple and remember it never hurts to have back-ups, and maybe even back-up back-ups.
I look forward to sharing my first impressions of Maastricht and the Netherlands next week.
dkilcull@indiana.edu
