Don’t Leave Your Home Without Student Card

Getting ready for your first student-style adventure abroad? Here are some suggestions to smooth the way.

Before leaving home, contact the tourist information offices of the countries that you intend to visit.

Many countries and cities publish information specifically for young visitors. These offices also can be a good source of free maps. Maps can be fairly expensive to buy abroad.

Be sure to take advantage of any student or youth discounts. Students should carry an International Student Identity Card; non-students under 26 should buy a Youth International Educational Exchange card.

Both are honored internationally for many of the same discounts. Each costs $10 and is available from Council Travel Services, 1093 Broxton Ave., Suite 220, Los Angeles 90024, (213) 208-3551.

Get a free discount directory with each card. It lists the reductions and gives the addresses of participating foreign youth travel services, which can help make additional travel arrangements after arrival.

Luggage Tips

For luggage, try a backpack with an internal frame, which converts to look like a canvas suitcase. Because the frame is contained within the fabric, there’s less chance of damage by luggage handlers, and it’s easier to store on a bus or train.

Don’t pack valuables in the pockets of your pack. Invest in a money belt or neck pouch. This could decrease your chances of being robbed when you are in a vulnerable situation--on a crowded street, snoozing on a train or sleeping in a dormitory room.

Convert your money into traveler’s checks. Be sure to carry with you separately an extra copy of the numbers, and also leave a copy at home. That way, if disaster strikes, you will be able to retrieve the check numbers with a phone call.

Mail Sent Abroad

If you own an American Express card or buy its traveler’s checks, you can use some of its foreign offices as your mailing address.

Not all offices accept mail, however, so check with American Express customer service before handing out addresses.

Mail sent to you will be held for 30 days and then returned. A small fee is charged in some countries when mail is picked up. You cannot use this service for registered mail, parcels or packages.

Don’t commit to too many mail pickup points. You may want to alter your route. It’s best to choose popular cities.

You’ll only be able to pick up mail during business hours. In some countries, because letters are addressed by last name first, check for mail under both first and last names.

Travel Light

Pack lightly. Try to avoid bulky items such as coats. Try to work with clothing layers that you can add or discard as the climate changes. Remember, wool will help keep you warm even if you get wet.

Don’t pack a sleeping bag unless you intend to camp. Budget hotels provide bedding and youth hostels require that you buy or rent a sheet-sleeping bag. They also provide blankets.

Pack a poncho. It can keep you and your pack dry, and if at some point you are riding a bike in the rain, it will protect most of your body. Ponchos also can double as ground sheets for camping or picnics.

Get a guidebook that has been researched for the student-style traveler. Bookstores specializing in travel can advise you on what’s available.

Also pack a journal in which you can record tips and recommendations you get from other travelers along the way. They will be your greatest source of information.