Studying abroad is arguably the most exciting time in a college student’s life, and the only true way to live out the entire plot of the Lizzy Mcguire movie. Whether it’s getting lost in the bustling streets of London, strolling through the scenic walkways of Madrid, gorging on pasta in Florence, or clubbing until 6 a.m. in Hong Kong, going abroad also involves flooding social media with pictures good enough to give the rest of us FOMO. This, of course, means you’ll have to look unrealistically good, and we know from experience just how hard that can be.

Now the worst part of traveling is packing, and when it comes to going abroad, it’s about ten times worse. Most Syracuse abroad programs suggest you bring one bag and pack light, but if you’re a normal human already deep within the grasp of consumerism, odds are you’re just going to pay for another bag. You’ll pack it full of all your favorite pieces, just to find out that everyone dresses pretty differently in your final destination. Not to mention the weather is way off and you’re supposed to be doing unexpected activities almost everyday.

Take if from a few students who are currently living their best lives overseas:

First and foremost, the SU abroad people were not wrong; don’t overpack! You’re going to do a lot of shopping while you’re abroad, so while one bag may be unrealistic, don’t pack both bags to the rim. Leave some room of all the cool pieces you’re going to bring back.

London

1. Dress like it’s going to rain (like all the time)

The obvious thing about London is that it’s very rainy but you won’t understand just how rainy until you check the weather which says it won’t rain at all and you leave the house with no umbrella and get stranded in the rain at least 5 times during the day. The Brits take their rainwear very seriously, so invest in a good pair of rain boots(these Hunters are always a good pick) or get the classic trench coat and bring lots of hoodies to wear under. The best thing about London weather is that it’s optimal for hoodie szn.

2. Invest in a pair of doc martens

The sheer amount of peer pressure you’ll feel to buy a pair of docs when you get to London will be enough to drive you to buy a pair. The quintessential London girl look is literally any outfit… with a pair docs

3. Outerwear is everything

It tends to get fairly chilly in the fall and winter in London. (DW nothing like the Syracuse arctic). When the temp dips below 50 degrees Londoners pull out their Blazers, bomber jackets, Leather lapel coats, wool longline coats and of course the classic trench. Outwear tends to be the main focus of a London outfit in the fall so cool silhouettes and bold colors are the way to go.

4. Keep the sweat pants in your suitcase

People in London really know how to dress. Your American bummy outfit that is still kinda cute will most likely be frowned upon on the posh streets of London. On days you don’t feel like putting in the effort, swap out your favorite sweats for a pair of relaxed cargo pants. A hoodie is always fair game though (after all it is always raining)

5. Your black crop top won’t cut it for going out

Girls in London dress to the nines to go out in London. Many clubs in London have a dress code that usually ranges from smart casual to formal. Bouncers have the right to deny you entry if you’re not dressed the part. A mini dress or skirt with a crop top paired with a heeled bootie or a statement pant with a crop top will do the trick. Cool outerwear like bomber and jean jackets instantly make any outfit cooler and will keep you semi-warm until you can get to a coat-check.

Madrid

1. Pack Like You’re Going on Summer Vacation

Madrid is one of the study abroad destinations that is warmer so leave that Canada Goose at home and pack your sun dresses, maxi skirts and crop tops! Ladies in Madrid are very sophisticated and tend to stray away from overly casual looks. We’re so used to heading to class in sweats and a hoodie but leave the baggy sweats at home because people will look at you crazy. Instead opt for loose, flowy pants that have the same amount of comfort and look more put together. And don’t forget to pack a bathing suit, Spain has beautiful beaches!

2. Don’t Let the Sun Fool you

Although it is mainly warm in Madrid it doesn’t get a little colder in the fall and winter seasons. When the temperature drops people pull out their trench coats. Plaid printed outerwear is very popular in Madrid so look into getting one, once you touch down. If you’re not a big coat wearer, opt for a cropped oversized puffer or load up on oversized scarves for a comfy chic look. Layering is also essential in Madrid because the weather switches up like crazy, so make sure you wear pieces that are easy to put on and take off incase there's a random heat wave or wind chill.

3. Footwear is Your Way In

Spaniards love a good chunky boot and platforms. If you want to fit in, look into a pair of utility combat boots, or chunky platforms for going out. We love this pair from Nasty Gal!

4. Keep It Simple For Nights Out

Don’t do too much when you’re doing out. Madrid has amazing nightlife and people tend to be out until the sun comes up, which means tight dresses and high heels are not the preferred uniform. Comfort is key, if you’re going to be dancing the night away so go for a cute crop top, statement pants and cute comfortable shoes that won’t make you want to cry half way through the night.

Hong Kong

Tips and Pics Courtesy of @sierra.e.o

1. For this bustling Chinese city, graphic tees are a must. That and a pair of loose fitting pants are the template for a typical Hong Kong outfit.

2. People in Hong Kong tend to dress more conservatively. Opt for looks that stand in a subtle way, and avoid showing too much skin if you’re not a fan of people staring.

3. While dressing a bit more modestly is the vibe during the day, feel free to shed off some layers when going out. Hong Kong has a great clubbing scene so you won’t feel out of place in a mini dress with some heels or a crop top and low rise jeans

4. Hong Kong is the polar opposite of ‘Cuse when it comes to weather which is probably the most convincing thing you’ll read in this article, but the weather can be extremely hot and humid, especially from august to october so be sure to bring light weight clothes. Your Canada Goose could use some much needed rest if we’re being honest.

5. Hong Kong is a walking type of city so make sure you invest in a pair of comfy sandals or loafers so you don’t have to be in running shoes all the time. We love these pair of sport sandals from Teva.

6. Last but not least, keep sunglasses handy cause that hong kong sun hits different.

Your Complete Guide On What To Wear Your Semester Abroad

London

Madrid

Hong Kong