A gap year, away all by yourself could be pretty problematic when it comes to planning it, finding a place and especially, packing your things for it. Since it's hard to decide exactly what are the most important things, these are some useful suggestions that will help you getting everything ready for your upcoming year abroad. Take notes, everyone, this is gold!
Don't Overcomplicate Things
Yes, girls. Everyone knows that you have got 12 pairs of shoes, but in the end, it's gonna be hard to bring them all with you for your gap year abroad: the best thing to do is reduce the effort by bringing 2/3 pairs of shoes (as they are the bulkiest item you could fit in your suitcase) and by limiting the number of clothes you want to bring with you. Remember the less, the better!
Essentials First
Imagine that you are packing up for a day trip, just 365 times bigger. In the end, that should be your approach when planning your suitcase(s). First and foremost, you should pack your underwear, your bathroom items and your pyjamas, as those are the essential things you will need in your new place. If you organise your packing, then everything will be stress-free the day you leave, without the whole "oh my god, have I forgot something?"
Think About The Actual Journey
If you are going for an overseas trip, then you should bring something to make your trip comfortable enough, a travel pillow, for example. Deciding to go for a gap year abroad is something that could be that stressful for you, especially if the country in which you are gonna live is not speaking your mother tongue. Be prepared for it by having a safe and relaxed journey, no one wants to start his or her gap year with an ultra high level of stress.
Your (Smart)Self
When packing everything up, having your smartphone and your tablet up to date is as important as having the right amount of clothes: if you are going to a foreign country, for example, in which no one is speaking English, download some apps that can translate what you are saying. This could (and would) be helpful. Also, you must download some solid apps that let you understand public transportation (if you are staying in a big city) or what places you should see.
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