Sending a student abroad is exciting - and overwhelming. Even the most organized families find themselves saying, “Wait… did we think about that?” in the final days before departure.
Here are a few practical reminders that parents consistently say made travel smoother and prevented unnecessary stress once their student actually left.
1. Make sure the airline app is downloaded and logged in
Airline apps are no longer optional. Boarding passes, gate changes, delays, and baggage updates often live only in the app.
Tip:
Have your student:
-
Download the airline app
-
Log in
-
Save boarding passes to their phone wallet
-
Turn on notifications
2. Screenshot everything important
Wi-Fi isn’t guaranteed when you need it most.
Screenshots to take:
-
Boarding passes
-
Flight confirmations
-
Housing address
-
Arrival instructions
-
Program contact info
Create a photo album called “Travel Day” so everything is in one place.
3. Put program and emergency contacts in the phone
Not just saved - favorited.
Include:
-
Program emergency number
-
On-site coordinator
-
Housing contact
-
Parent/guardian
This matters if the phone is low on battery or borrowed.
4. Carry one change of clothes in the carry-on
Delayed bags happen - even on international flights.
One outfit + pajamas + underwear in the carry-on can make a big difference after a long travel day.
5. Separate valuables
Students should never carry:
-
Passport
-
All credit cards
-
Phone
…in the same place.
A backup card or ID left safely at housing can save the day.
6. Know how they’re getting from the airport to housing
Write it down. Screenshot it. Print it.
Even confident students appreciate having clear instructions after a long flight.
7. Download offline maps
Offline maps allow navigation without cell service - incredibly helpful on arrival.
8. Bring a small physical info card
A simple index card with:
-
Name
-
Housing address
-
Program name
-
Emergency contact
Low-tech, but very effective if a phone dies.
9. Expect travel hiccups - not disasters
Missed trains, delays, and confusion are part of the experience. Preparation helps, but flexibility matters more.
10. Trust that they’ll figure it out
You’ve done the prep. Now comes the growth.
More helpful study abroad resources:
Want to reduce last-minute tech stress? Read Study Abroad Tech Tips: Phones, Charging & Digital Safety (Without the Overwhelm).
Looking for the small, practical items students actually use once they’re traveling? Don’t miss Small Things That Make a Big Difference During Study Abroad Travel Days.