i've linked a link to a printable version of my essential packing list here
After many hours pinteresting "what to pack for study abroad" I've compiled a list of absolute essentials that will hopefully help someone save some time packing in the future (you're welcome). This list will almost definitely be updated after I realize I've forgotten something vital or added a couple things that are super easy to get while abroad, so stay tuned. Regardless, here's the first draft!
Clothing
Keep in mind that the climate of wherever you're traveling to will most likely be a little different from what you're used to at home. With dublin in mind, my list leans more on the side of a colder, rainy climate.
Tops
T-shirts – graphic tees, v necks, white (8-10)
Long Sleeve (3-6)
Tanks (5)
Sweaters (3-6)
Sweatshirts – zip-up, hoodie, crew (2-3)
Cardigans - black (2-3)
Bottoms
Jeans – nice, ripped, and black (3-4)
Leggings – black (long & cropped), gray, blue (5-6)
Shorts (2-3)
Optional: skirt (1-2) if you’ll actually wear them
Yes, you still have to work exercise into your routine abroad (sigh). Since I basically already live in my athleta leggings here in the U.S. it was a no brainer to pack my beloved salutation tights (linked here, trust me you'll love them too), but make sure to also pack sport tops/bras for actual workouts.
Workout
Leggings (2-3 if needed in addition to previously listed)
Tanks (2-3)
Sports Bras (2)
Sleep
Shorts / Long Pants (3-4)
T-Shirt (1)
Hoodie (1-2)
Robe (1)
Jackets and coats will most likely take up a lot of the room in your suitcase, but you will for sure need them if you're going anywhere there's a chance of colder weather. My tip, skip the bulky, stiff coats and go for a more packable option like the Michael Kors jacket linked here.
Jackets
Rain (1)
Long Coat (1)
Green Cargo (1)
Packable (2)
Optional: Blazer
I'm typically not a dress person, but classics must be included in any
Dresses
Casual (1-2)
optional: Nice (1)
Bathrobe – Fluffy, Silk
I will admit, I pretty much always overpack on shoes (oops). However, if you're almost done packing and have enough room and weight left in your bag, I strongly suggest adding the extra pair, I've never regretted it. ;)
Shoes
Tennis Shoes – ultraboosts, superstars, converse
Sandals – Burks, Sanuks
Boots – Rainboots, Riding, booties
Shower Shoes (Flip Flops)
Slippers?
Black pumps
Socks – Low socks (10), 1 pair cozy
Accessories
Ireland is a chilly place, so I plan on bringing A LOT of scarves. If you're going somewhere warmer, one or two will do just fine. I definitely recommend bringing at least one that can double as a blanket for the plane ride there and back too!
Scarves (3-5)
Winter
Statement
Neck Scarf (1)
The nice thing about jewelry is that most pieces take up little to no space in your bag while being able to completely transform that outfit you've already worn 3 times on your trip. I usually go for more necklaces than anything else, since they tend to be most noticeable.
Jewelry
Statement Necklaces
Studs
Leave at home: Apple Watch or expensive jewelry you don’t absolutely need
You may not think you'll need to pack a bathing suit or sunglasses if you're not going somewhere tropical for the majority of your stay, but you'll be thankful to have them just in case a spontaneous trip comes up!
Sunglasses (1-2)
Bathing Suit / Cover-up (1)
I'm incredibly biased toward Kate Spade anything / everything, so if y'all are still in search of the perfect bag to travel with you the link to the perfect Kate sale purse / wallet is here.
Bags
Tote or Backpack
Larger Purse
Wallet
Bathroom
Admittedly, this is where a know a definitely overpack. I like to have absolutely everything I could need for the entirety of my time traveling, and I don't regret it one bit when I realize how hard it is to get some of the American products I'm used to while I'm in Europe (#sorrynotsorry). If you're not as high maintenance as me, feel free to leave out some of these products; I'll also link them all so you can try them and get hooked like I already have, no judgements here!
Face
Lipstick / Chapsticks
Brushes
Bronzer / Highlighter / Blush
Makeup Remover
Facewash
Tweezers / Blackhead Remover
Moisturizer
Optional: Face Masks & Tea Tree Oil
Hair
Brush / Comb
Hairspray
Hair ties / Bobby Pins
Body
Body wash
Lotion
Towels – washcloths, full towel (1 each, get more there)
Toothbrush / Toothpaste
Razors / extra blades
Nail Polish (1-2) / Clippers / Files / Remover Pads
Glasses / Contacts / Solution
Misc. Travel Extras
Travel Locks & Fitted Sheet (for hostels)
Ziploc Bags (they're packing miracles)
Carry-on Bag
Snacks / Gum
Passport / ID
Hand Sanitizer
Pen (you’ll likely have to sign papers upon arrival)
Earbuds
Neck Pillow / small blanket
Euros & Pounds (order at home for better exchange rates)
Kleenex
Portable Phone Charger
Reusable Water Bottle
Travel Guides (lonelyplanet books are my favorite!)
You're most likely going to want to do some exploring while you're abroad and won't want to lug around the full size bottles of everything you brought. it's hard to find travel size in Europe so save yourself the struggle and bring em with! (also note I included sunscreen: I burn super easy and it's hard to find the sunscreen you're used to in Europe, so I recommend bringing it just in case!)
Travel Toiletries
Shampoo / Conditioner
Deodorant
Sunscreen
Body Wash Pods (I like these ones)
U.S. Medicine (may be hard to find abroad)
Zyrtec-D
Melatonin (for the plane)
Tylenol / Advil
Excedrin Migraine
Tums
Vitamins (I recommend a “Complete” Vitamin & extra Vitamin C)
Band-Aids
Packing Cubes / Space Saver Bags
Umbrella(s)
Portable Luggage Scale
Home
Sheets / Pillow
Wrinkle Releaser Spray
Room Spray that smells like home (volcano is my forever scent)
Electronics
Laptop / Charger
Phone Chargers
Power Converters
Flatiron (if you don't have a duel voltage, wait and get this there! you're chi iron will thank you for not frying it)
optional: iPad / Charger
Bringing school supplies might seem like a waste of space - and if you don't have room in your suitcase, definitely leave these out - but it's hard to find a spiral bond notebook abroad, so you might want to bring one.
School
Pens / Pencils
Notebooks
Pictures of Home (they take up like no space, and you'll be glad you have them)
Wait Until You Get There
Blow dryer
Pots / Pans
Books
Souvenirs
Phone SIM Card
Laundry Detergent
Hangers
Sheets / Blankets
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