Who knew that preparing for a study abroad would be so difficult? Even if it's just for the summer, and not a full semester, there are a few things to think about before getting on that plane to your temporary home.

1. Forms of identification

This is an obvious one, because you can't travel to a foreign country without your passport, but how soon is it until your driver's license expires? Having these things ready and updated are an added cost as well, so it's good to have these way ahead of time--just in case any information is printed wrong, too.

Another good tip is to have colored copies of both in case it gets lost or stolen. This way you have a copy back home in the U.S., at wherever you're staying, and the actual item on you. There have been a few stories where other counties have accused people of sneaking into their country or people who have had to beg for help from the U.S. Embassy.

2. Pack light-ish

Just bring the necessities. A few shirts, jeans, sundresses, a jacket, tennis shoes, sandals, and all that basic clothing that can get you through the week. Some feel like they can survive on just those alone and be okay, but if you're not able to, that's what shopping is for! Save room for the things you'll be bringing home.

3. Keep valuables in your carry-on or personal item

Don't check in items like your laptop, camera, cash, personal information, or other expensive things with the airline. It's best that you take responsibility and keep them on you so no one is tempted to swipe it from your bag. Locks don't do much either, since many airlines may just break them off or have a key to it anyway.

4. Get your finances in order

If you have a lot of bills to pay, consolidate cards or loans into one if you're able to. This will help ease the stress of balancing too many bills at once. Also, be sure to have emergency money in an account so that you're not SOL if something happens. Don't carry all your cash with you either.

5. Have a secret pouch for extra cash and identification on your body

It's best to have a lanyard that can hold emergency money and IDs that you can hide under your clothes so no one can pick-pocket you. A lot of times the locals can spot tourists and will target them since travelers usually have a lot of them when out and about.

6. Try to travel around the area

It's relatively easy to travel to other countries once you're abroad, so check out opportunities to get to other countries over the weekend. In Europe, rail passes are an option if it's something you might be able to do often, and it's the most cost efficient way as well.

Definitely scope out the things to do in that country as well such as taking a trip to the capital or going to national monuments. There are cheap tour oppotunities you might find online if the school doesn't already have plans to do them!

7. Get to know who you're traveling with

Most of the time professors will set up a group or have contact information of other students if they're doing the same program as you. If you make friends ahead of time, it might make this new experience a little less nerve-wracking as well.

8. Learn a little about the culture ahead of time

Whatever country you choose will have some sort of significance to your major or just by your interest to live there, so before you go, it's best to know a little bit about where you're headed!

For example, in American culture, it's pretty rude to slurp your soup, but did you know in Japan, it means you're enjoying it? Culture Smart books are a great choice and have many countries they focus on. They're pretty cheap to get on Amazon as well.

Still more to learn!

There are so many other tips and tricks to make studying abroad a little easier, but it's all going to be a different experience for everyone. The best thing is to keep an open mind and be ready for a memorable time of your life! It's a great opportunity to explore the world, so make the most of it all