12 Items That Make Living Abroad Easier
Living abroad is incredibly rewarding, educational, and admittedly extremely uncomfortable at times. Being from the United States and having lived in both Budapest and now Spain, I can safely say I know a thing or two. So these are things I would bring from home, purchase, or make as soon as possible after arriving. Whether you’re studying abroad for 4 months, planning to live abroad forever, or anything in between, here are a few things you can have that will make your life just a little bit easier!
1. A stuffed animal
- This may sound a bit random (and possibly silly), but if you are someone like me who tends to personify inanimate objects like stuffed animals, having one is a great idea! Whether it be bringing one from home or buying a new stuffed friend in your new home, they will keep you company just the same. Sometimes when you feel lonely and want an extra bit of comfort, it really does help to have a stuffed animal in your new place. I don’t care how old you are, you won’t care when you are homesick and get to cuddle with one of the best reminders of home.
2. Homemade decorations
- Make your apartment, room, or house your own as soon as you can. It does not have to be expensive; I love making homemade decor wherever I move! For example, a banner made of paper stars, paintings, books you want to read, candles, etc. Make your space feel like it is yours, no matter how long you plan on being in your new country.
3. A cozy blanket
- What is better than getting a cozy blanket, lighting a candle, and turning on a comfort movie? In my opinion, not much! But a key ingredient in that formula is the blanket, and it does not have to be expensive. When I was studying in Budapest, my comfort blanket was the one you get for free on an international flight. Whether it be a blanket for free or perhaps you opt for a nicer option, both will get the job done just fine.
4. Alternate lighting
- Chances are, whatever overhead lighting you have in your new home is bright, uncomfortable, and not cutting it. Invest a little money into a lamp or two and maybe some string lights, warm lights only, of course. Alternate lighting immediately makes a space warm, inviting, and more yours.
5. A nice towel or two
- Whenever I move to a new place, I always forget that there won’t be towels! This applies mainly when you move somewhere with just a suitcase or two and can’t pack your nice fluffy towels. This leads me to a travel tip: buy a microfiber towel that rolls up into nothing. Take it to hostels, the beach, and have it for your first couple of nights in your new place. But as any who uses these towels knows, they are not the most comfortable things in the world. Eventually, you will want to buy something a little bit nicer, so keep that in mind!
6. Public transport card or travel discounts for residents
- This item varies from place to place, but it is always worth looking into. Travel costs add up quickly, and you want to get everything as cheaply as possible. As we know, moving isn’t cheap! This “card” could be a physical travel card, an abono on the Renfe train app, or something more country-specific. Make sure you also pay attention to the rules because you don’t want to be stuck with a large fee for not scanning your ticket.
7. Comfort water bottle
- I believe this item speaks for itself. Drink your water and stay happy and healthy! I personally love my Owala water bottle and Might Mug bottle🙂
8. A favorite coffee shop or place you go often
- I know this isn’t an item, but having a place you frequent will change your experience in your new city. The people there will eventually know that you are still adapting to the language and culture and become friendly, familiar faces. Moving somewhere new means constantly navigating unknown circumstances. Language barriers, misunderstandings, and constant decisions have to be made. Having a place where you can comfortably be yourself outside of your house will come to mean a lot to you!
9. A framed photo
- Whether it be of your dog, cat, mom, or car, bring a framed photo of anything that makes you smile:) Or if you’re tight on space, maybe just the photo.
10. A secure purse or bag
- When you are in a new place, it can be fairly obvious that you are new there. Don’t be a target for thieves, and help yourself be comfortable in your new home without worrying about something getting stolen. You have enough to think about without getting your passport, wallet, or phone stolen.
11. Whatsapp
- Girl just download it because you’re going to need it. Free, easy, and what pretty much everyone uses in most of Europe.
12. A fun activity!
- Bring something fun to do that also keeps your mind busy! This could be materials for scrapbooking, a coloring book, or even a normal book. Though it might be tempting, you don’t want to sit inside on your phone all day. Doing something fun, yet proactive, gives you a sense of normalcy that you will be happy to have.
Keep in mind that I have only lived/studied abroad in two countries in Europe… So even though most of these would be the same in other continents, keep in mind they might vary! Living abroad is a privilege I have been lucky to have, so I know how intimidating it can be! All you need are deep breaths, an open mind, and maybe some material things to help get you through the first days and make you more comfortable.
