Packing a Carry On: Exchange

 

It’s officially my last week in Edmonton for 5 whole months. I officially leave on Saturday and although I have already made a detailed list of all the things that I think I want to take with me on my semester abroad, we’ll see what actually makes it in the suitcase. I know I have more than I actually need on my list, but as a self proclaimed fashionista, how am I supposed to part with some of my favourite pieces for 5 whole months. Not likely! Sooo, I’ve come to terms with it and I’ll try and con my visitors from home into taking some unused items back with them when they leave.

I did a post about packing a carry on for a road trip back in the summer but travel by plane is a very different experience. There are things you have to take into account, like the fact that I will not be able to access my luggage the entire trip to Denmark, and that my liquids have to be the correct size in limited quantities. Things have changed, and my packing will definitely be reflecting that.

I am taking a carry on suitcase as well as a backpack to help me bring everything!

Carry On Packing List for an Exchange Semester

Backpack

• Documents (passport, visa, documents needed at the border)
• Wallet (including your credit card, cash of destination country, school ID, insurance card, Driver’s License)
• Water Bottle (I use this one and it’s worth the price, 100%)
• Travel Journal
• Sunglasses
• a Pen (you will be the most loved seat companion when everyone else forgets theirs for the customs declaration)
• a Book (I’m reading this one right now and I love it!)
• a Snack (I like to bring a mix of healthy and junk food)
• Gum/mints
• Eyemask and earplugs (to hopefully help you get some sleep)
• Phone
• Laptop
• Chargers (phone, computer)
• Phone battery pack (I know my phone always runs out of battery at the worst time)
• Earphones
• a Scarf (to use as a blanket throughout the flight)
• Toiletries
  • basic makeup products
  • rejuvenating face spray (I use this one!)
  • toothbrush and toothpaste
  • lip balm
  • hang sanitizer
  • face wipes
  • hairbrush and comb
  • 1/2 travel sized toiletries (face & hand cream, mouthwash, etc)

Carry On Suitcase

Because I have to take so much stuff with me for 5 months abroad, I am making sure to wear my biggest pieces that I want to take. For instance, my Hunter boots are huge, so those will be worn on the plane! You also have to take weight into consideration. Although the carry on can only be a certain weight, it’s more likely that I’ll exceed the limit on my checked baggage. For this reason, I try and put some heavier items into my carryon suitcase!

• Jewelry and valuables
• Camera and accessories (camera charger, extra battery, tripod, extra lens)
• Polaroid Camera
• Prescription medications
• 2 extra Outfits (things you would be devastated if they were lost)
• other 1/2 of travel sized toiletries (shampoo & conditioner, cleanser, etc)

xx Victoria

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