Packing can be overwhelming, especially for international travel.  This study abroad program lasts 3 1/2 weeks so that can be a bit challenging as well. Here are some helpful hints about how to pack, how much to pack, what to and what not to pack etc.

Stuff to bring...

- Shout wipes

- Dryer sheets (to keep clothes smelling fresh in suitcase)

- Zip-Lock bags of various sizes (keeps liquids in, keeps rain out...)

- Mosquito spray (for Italy)

- Sunscreen (for Italy)

- Travel alarm clock

- Discman

- Extra AA Batteries (for Discman etc. They are very $$$ there)

- Photocopies of Passport, Itinerary, etc. (in case you lose the originals)

- Journal (must have for keeping factoids needed for the final assignment)

- Aspirin, Imodium, Pepto Bismol, allergy stuff, etc. (stuff you're sure will 

                 work, just in case)

- Adapter Kit (different ones for Ireland and Italy- make sure you have both)

- Motion Sickness Medicine (for plane, ferries- if this is a problem for you)

- Credit card info. (#'s to call if you lose it or if it doesn't work etc.)

- Baggage locks (available for cheap at Office Max)

- Travel Guides (DK Eyewitness Books for Ireland and Florence)

- Addresses (to send people postcards- stamps are $$$ though)

- Phone Cards (can use ISIC Card - or buy in bulk at Price Club type store)

- Extra carry-on size bag (to bring back souvenirs or for overnights)

- "Duck" Shoes (shoes you can wear in the rain/mud in Ireland)

- Backpack (good carry-on bag and good to keep journal etc. on tours)

- Band-aids (someone always needs one)

- Small set of Binoculars (fun extra)

- Waterproof sporty pants (like the Adidas type- the cotton lined ones)

- 2-3 "NICE" outfits (for our dinners at nice restaurants, special events etc.)

- Summer type clothes (for Italy - inc. comfy sandals, t-shirts, shorts)

- Sunglasses (for Italy)

- Mittens (I was glad I had them in Ireland)

- Hooded raincoat (for Ireland)

- Gum or candy (something familiar from home can be nice)

- Italian Language book (Barnes & Noble has one for $3)

- Soap for washing clothes in the sink

- A good book to read (on airplane, at night...)

- Charger for your digital camera (and re-chargeable batteries)

- Dr. note for any prescription meds.

- Double sided tape (to stick mementos in your journal)

- Umbrella (hard to walk in groups with, usually too windy anyway)

- Too many clothes (you'll have to lug it around...)

- Heavy stuff (try and pack light...layering type clothes)

- Travelers Cheques (hassle- just use your debit card)

- Emotional/Relationship Baggage (enjoy yourself-be free!)

- Roller Luggage is a MUST have.

- One bag checked and one carry-on is your best bet.

- Check weight restrictions for your airline before you leave.

- Rolling clothes saves space and helps prevent wrinkles.

- Heavy stuff at the wheels (so it won't settle and squish the lighter stuff)

- Can't have a lock on it when it's checked- they'll take it off.

- Make sure YOU can carry it (ALL!)

- Labeled with your name and home address.

- Have all your hotel info. packed in your carry-on (incase the other gets

                lost you can tell them where you'll be staying).