Pre-Departure for a Year Abroad - 34 Days and Counting!

I finally realized a few days ago that I am, in fact, leaving the country in a little over a month.

34 days and counting.

It's a good thing I've been slowly acquiring and setting aside some necessities to bring with me while abroad for the entire summer! (Note to reader: I am an avid Amazon buyer!)

For example: Blackhawks gear! I searched for DAYS for the perfect shirt to purchase to display my Chicago pride while abroad and I finally did it - I ended up finding two that fit my criteria (had to say "Chicago" and "Blackhawks"). I sure couldn't go walking around a foreign country with just a Native American head on my shirt. I ended up buying a Red, Long-sleeved Blackhawks Shirt.

Another example: This great rain coat! I was sorely in need of a water-proof jacket with a hood to use for my spring and fall abroad. I finally, after much research, decided on a Columbia Arcadia Rain Jacket. Here's to hoping it fits well!


I've also decided to begin to stockpile toiletries and medication, as well as create a list of things that I still need to purchase for my time abroad (partially, at least):

Allergies:

Target brand allergy medicine

Target brand decongestant

Benadryl (allergic reactions)

Hydrocortisone (anti-itch cream)

 

Tummy Problems:

Tums

Laxative

Anti-diarrhea tablets

 

Pain:

Headache medicine

Ibuprofin

Acetaminophen

 

Cuts and scratches:

Bandaids

Chlorhexidine (skin disinfecting agent)

Antibiotic ointment (Neosporin?)

Burn aid gel

 

Other:

Sunscreen

Thermometer

 

Period Products:

Pamphrin (period meds)

Tampons/Pads (Before going abroad the last time, I had heard that tampons with plastic applicators were few and far between - uh, not okay)

 

Why bring all of this stuff? First off, I'll have it in case I need it and won't have to run to the store in a time of need.
 

Second, the instructions are in English - while my German is okay and GoogleTranslate is always an option, I'd prefer NOT to compare products in my non-native language - for now at least! Ask me in 4 months and we'll see how my German is progressing!
 

Third, and finally, it takes up room in my suitcase that I can fill on return trips with small gifts and other purchases.

 

The excitement is building and I'm beginning to get ready to go abroad again.
 

Until next time!