YFU Handbooks 2015 Family Handbook (Study Abroad) | Page 31

APPENDIX III: STUDENT CHECKLIST

1 month prior
• Obtain some local currency at a major bank branch.
• Inform your bank of any credit or debit cards that will be used abroad and the approximate dates of your program.

In some cases, banks will put accounts on hold or cancel cards if they believe there is any suspicious activity.

• Familiarize yourself with your host country’s laws - the US Department of State website is a good resource
• Review the customs restrictions of your host country especially in regards to bringing certain items or medications

overseas.

• Review US Customs policies to know what items you cannot bring back from your exchange
• Sign your passport and fill in the emergency contact information
• Discuss with your parents your plan for accessing money for everyday needs and emergencies- whether it is using

traveler’s checks, opening a foreign bank account, or gaining access to an ATM card that can be used abroad (such
as Visa or Mastercard)

• Decide if you’re going to purchase a cell phone, or rent an international SIM card
• If going on a year-long program, determine how you may ship the new season’s clothes to your host country

2 weeks prior
• Look out for your flight e-tickets in the mail!
• Begin packing for your study abroad (pack once

and then cut the amount in half!). Be conscious
that you may have to carry your luggage for
significant distances, and possibly up and down
stairs. Packing outfits that you can layer or mix
and match is the best way to economize space.
Leave extra room for souvenirs!

• Confirm airline baggage weight limits, and

research any new restrictions for airline travel

• Purchase a travel journal, converter plugs,

adapters, and other needed items

• Gather all your important phone numbers and

addresses in a non-electronic location

• Organize medications, prescription renewals,

and any special medical supplies. Carry a letter
from your physician and prescriptions along with
any medication.

Study Abroad Family Handbook - 31