Culture

Saving money: useful things to take with you if you are going to study abroad for the medium to long term.

Hello everyone,

We would like to introduce some items that would be useful to have with you if you are travelling or going on a medium to long term trip.

Although written for mid- to long-term travellers of a month or more, I think it is also useful enough for short-term stays (basically, I wrote the article with an eye on how to save money and prepare for convenience and not to go back out, rather than preparing to have the financial means to enjoy local things every time you visit the country).

 So here you go.

International travel luggage list

Hand luggage

passport

  • The most important identity document when going abroad. It is always a good idea to have a copy ready as well.

Smartphones and chargers

  • Essential for communication and information gathering. A mobile battery is even better.

Copy of airline ticket or booking confirmation.

  • A paper copy is often useful in case of problems and local procedures. You may not have to; in the case of e-tickets, taking a screenshot is a good idea when you are in a place where there is no wifi.

List of emergency contacts

  • It is a good idea to have contact details of local embassies and family members on paper.

Conversion plugs and charging cables

  • The one you must never forget. One that can be used in any country is recommended.

What to pack in your suitcase

2 bath towels

  • They can be used in hotels and places of stay, as well as for washing clothes at short notice.

2 towels

  • Be prepared for use on the go or at the gym.

2 handkerchiefs

  • In addition to daily use, they are also useful as an etiquette tool.

Underwear (1 week's supply)

  • It is advisable to prepare a weekly supply to reduce the frequency of washing.

Laundry gel ball detergent.

Take detergent with you, especially if you want a cheap option, e.g. abroad!

If I have extra, I can give it to people around me or take it home with me. Also, it's easy to adjust the quantity.

Exercise clothing top and bottom

  • Prepared for sudden exercise or activity.

pyjamas

  • Take something comfortable with you to improve the quality of your sleep.

swimming costume

  • Useful if there is an opportunity to use a sauna or swimming pool. It kills two birds with one stone if it can also be used as a replacement for underwear.

Foldable slippers

  • Convenient for relaxing your feet on the plane or during your stay. Compact and easy to store.

Mini pillow (bean pillow)

  • It supports the neck and makes it comfortable for long journeys and unfamiliar accommodation. It is particularly recommended for people who are not confident about their muscle mass.

souvenir

  • It is a good idea to prepare souvenirs that will be appreciated by the organisations and individuals you intend to serve. Japanese specialities and small items are particularly popular.

Japanese food

  • Ochazuke (rice with tea and soup)/ Osuimono (Japanese dashi soup)
    • This may be just me, but if I want to save money, I take as many packets of ochazuke and soup as possible.
    • Just take it with you, and if you buy oatmeal locally (it is usually sold everywhere), you can add hot water and eat oatmeal with oatmeal. Good for breakfast or when you just want a proper Japanese meal.

Folding Scissors

  • This handy item is used in many unexpected situations, such as opening documents and packages.
  • Be aware that you cannot take it with you in hand luggage (it is treated as dangerous goods).

Winter loads (for cold climates)

Uniqlo Ultra Light Down

  • Lightweight, easy to carry and warm enough. Useful in cold climates.

Windbreaker

  • It is a good idea to have one to protect against wind and rain.

Scarves (both large and thin ones, if possible)

  • The large size works well on cold days and the thin size when it is a little chilly.

Equipment that can warm up to the ears (e.g. flight caps).

  • In cold climates, warming the ears can considerably change the temperature of the body.

Electric kettle (portable)

  • A folding electric kettle for use abroad is very useful! It is useful if you are staying in a place other than a hotel and there seems to be no kettle available.

dryer

  • This one, too, looks like it needs a folding dryer.

Surprisingly useful items for international mobility

The following items are useful for long-haul flights and journeys with frequent transfers.

Water bottle

  • Water bottles with heat retention features, such as Thermos, are recommended for enjoying hot drinks on long journeys. A folding cup can also be taken along, which can be used for brushing teeth.
  • You can buy a plastic bottle once and use it from there without putting your mouth on it! :)

Priority pass

  • Access to airport lounges is a strong ally when you have a long layover or layover. Convenience is particularly enhanced when used in conjunction with the EPOS Card, for example.

Earphones

  • Recommended for people with ear pain due to changes in air pressure. Wearing them during take-off and landing can reduce pain. If you have been sensitive to changes in air pressure since you were a child, you should definitely take these with you.

Conclusion

How was the article?

By preparing these items, you can make your mid- to long-term stay abroad more comfortable and fulfilling while saving money.

For other articles on this and other international topics, click here.

Well then!

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