I am finally relaxed and have spent enough time at home to feel like I can think back on study abroad and consider what advice to tell you if you're preparing or thinking about it! While my advice may be more tailored to Latin America, I also traveled in southern Africa and friends in other regions have agreed with some of the points below.
Suggestions-
1. Bring your favorite brand of peanut butter
2. Don't bring any flashy jewelry/electronics.. it's not worth getting it stolen/lost
3. Buy a neck pillow for the airplane ride/bus rides
4. Always carry lots of medication (just in case!)
5. Pack as light as possible- it is frustrating to lug around a suitcase
6. Pack in a backpacking backpack if you can so you can carry stuff easily
7. Don't carry useless things like shampoo from the US.. buy it there!
8. Bring photos or other things to make you feel better when you're homesick
9. Buy a Lonely Planet guide so you can plan travel cheaply and awesome side trips
10. Download Skype to talk to friends!
11. Always carry toilet paper...
Hope that helps- I think many of these can relate to any trips abroad, more broadly than just study abroad. It's always super key to keep your passport, credit card, and ATM cards separate and in safe spots to assure you don't end up stuck somewhere for longer than necessary.
Happy traveling! I, on the other hand, am going to enjoy the good ol US of A for awhile!
marisaw@gwmail.gwu.edu
- Marisa
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Yes, its true before you study abroad, you need to plan and organize well. You also have to pack sensibly. The list of suggestions you have given for those going to study abroad is very correct.
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