We know how much research goes into preparing for study abroad, so we created a list of some quick travel tips to remember before you embark on your trip.

Always Roll, Never Fold

Rolling your thinner clothing items (i.e. t-shirts, shorts, pajamas, leisurewear) rather than folding them can save you a ridiculous amount of room. Be sure to roll your clothing tightly and stack them into neat rows. Rolling also eliminates those pesky packing wrinkles.

Make Copies of Important Documents

You never know what may happen, especially in a strange place. The best way to avoid possible disaster is to come prepared. It’s always a good idea to make copies of all your most important documents, i.e. your student ID, passport, driver’s license and ticket numbers. This will ensure you won’t be stranded if you happen to lose your wallet.

Invest in Some Packing Cubes

Packing cubes compress your items, giving you plenty of additional space in your suitcase. They also are a great way to keep all your items organized, as the cubes come in different sizes and shapes depending on your packing needs. Packing cubes may seem like an unnecessary purchase, but countless travel bloggers swear by them. Plus, a basic seven-box set from Amazon only costs $17 dollars.

Hack Your Maps

Whether you use Apple Maps or GPS, there is no overstating the importance of navigation software in the modern world. When it comes to traveling abroad, Google Maps has a hidden feature that makes it the best navigation app for international travelers. Simply type “OK Maps” (without quotation marks) into the search bar of your Google Maps app to gain access to this feature. The map on your screen will be saved directly to your device. This will ensure you can access the map when you do not have an internet connection. This neat little feature is a lifesaver, not to mention a data saver.

Carefully Curate Your Study Abroad Closet

Before you throw every crop top you own into your suitcase, you should take the time to choose items that can be re-worn time and time again. It is a good idea to bring a few basic pieces that can be combined in different ways to create a variety of outfits. This will ensure you aren’t re-wearing the same thing while also allowing you to save some suitcase space. If you have a solid selection of clothing essentials as well as a few key statement pieces, you will be able to make more outfits with fewer clothes!

Keep 90+ Languages on Deck

Language barriers are a natural part of international travel, but they can also make it difficult to accomplish basic tasks such as ordering food. It is always a good idea to invest in a reliable translating app that will help you stay informed while traveling and living abroad. There are many free options, such as iTranslate, which will allow you to translate any language you require.

Have any of your own clever tips when traveling to new destinations abroad? Make sure to tag us here @theedgemag to let us know!

Ingenious Hacks for Students Traveling Abroad