What You Should Know Before You Study Abroad

We’re ready to study abroad again!

After COVID put a damper on many of our travel plans, we probably speak for everyone when we say it couldn’t be more exciting to have study abroad back in action. Are you ready?

As the travel bug leads students to top study abroad destinations all over the world — from Costa Rica to Japan and France to Australia — many find themselves hopping from one city or country to the next between classes. Study abroad programs rarely limit you too much in terms of where you can visit.

Whether for the weekend or extended breaks, you can strike out to visit as many neighboring countries as possible. In Europe, the sheer number of cultures that coexist so closely together gives travelers the opportunity to try new things wherever they venture.

If you’re studying abroad, this may be your first taste of foreign culture. The life skills you’ll gain from navigating long-haul travel logistics, language barriers, and more are undeniably invaluable. However, being a world traveler comes with risks, and it’s important to be informed, prepared, and protected before studying abroad.

How to Prepare for Your Study Abroad

1. Plan, research, and plan some more.

Studying abroad can be overwhelming when you think of the endless possibilities for quick getaways and cultural experiences. Do your due diligence by researching not only your temporary home but also anywhere else you plan to check out between classes. But also …

2. Stay flexible.

Whether you want to stay a little longer or spontaneously set off for another destination on the weekend, keeping your schedule and plans flexible adds more adventure to your time abroad. Some of the best travel stories come from experiences that never made the pre-trip itinerary.

Also remember to practice flexibility of the mind. Things will be different than you’re used to at home, and not everyone experiences life the same way you do. Cultures and people are ever-evolving, so embrace this new way of life to the most of your ability.

3. Start saving early for extra adventures.

When you’re living abroad for weeks or months at a time, there’s much to see and do. The world is your oyster with new cities, countries, and experiences at your fingertips. Saving early will allow you to say “yes” to more excursions.

Check out these budgeting tips for studying abroad to make your money go further.

4. Decide how you’re going to phone home.

It used to be that you had to buy an international phone card if you wanted to call your parents and let them know you were all right. It’s a lot easier with today’s technology.

Contact your cell phone provider to make sure you’ll have service at your study abroad location. If it’s not automatically included in your plan, ask about adding international coverage for the duration of your trip.

There are also really convenient apps like WhatsApp that allow you to text and call for free over the internet. This is also a great option when you return home and want to keep in touch with your host family or friends you made during your trip.

5. Document your travels.

Whether it is putting pen to paper, snapping hundreds of photos, starting a blog, or emailing your friends and family back home, recording your experiences is a must. It’s a great way to keep memories alive, not to mention make it easier to share your study abroad experience with future employers.

And don’t discount the fun of sending a good old-fashioned postcard every once in a while. If you’re studying abroad over the holidays or don’t want to miss someone’s birthday, postcards make an excellent alternative to greeting cards.

6. Choose secure storage.

Pickpocketing is a threat to tourists, so ditch the fanny packs and backpacks and instead seek out a durable and securable bag to keep your valuables safely with you. Look for bags that lock and have thick, durable straps.

Remember to protect your digital footprint as well. Store important documents on the Cloud so you can access them from anywhere, even if you misplace something like your medical records, visa information, or travel insurance card.

7. Invest in student travel insurance.

Many schools, visa programs, and countries require you to have student travel insurance upon arrival. Additionally, your traditional health insurance at home may not cover you when you’re abroad, which could leave you with a hefty bill if you get sick or hurt.

For a fraction of the price of what you’d spend to get treatment at an international hospital, travel insurance can provide you with the protection you (and your parents) need to study abroad with peace of mind. Seven Corners offers travel medical insurance plans to help cover the cost of treatment if you get sick or hurt while traveling as well as 24-hour travel assistance services.

See how Alysan relied on Seven Corners when she got sick with malaria while studying in Ghana.

Before you dive into your study abroad adventure, consider what’s best for you and your wellbeing, so you can enjoy every experience.

Easy Study Abroad Travel Insurance from Seven Corners

Research doesn’t have to be a chore. Let our experts help you find the best travel insurance for your study abroad. You can chat with us online, email, or, if you need to talk to a real human, give us a call.