Study Abroad Students: How NOT to End Up in Debt

So you're a college student preparing to spend a semester overseas, but you only have a couple grand to your name. The current weakness of the US dollar haunts you as your departure date draws nearer. No need to fret: studying abroad can be incredibly expensive, but there are ways to avoid spending beyond your means when while you're away.

Pre-Departure Overspending: It's tempting to buy everything you see in the mall that has "travel" written on it, but chances are, you don't need that ultimate traveller's umbrella, complete with a flip-up compact mirror, money compartment and can of mace handle. Be honest with yourself, you're going to live in another country, and that's what you should be preparing for. It's smart to have an umbrella and some good clothing for layering, regardless of what climate you're travelling to, but unnecessary gadgets and things probably aren't going to help you, and only add extra weight to your suitcases. If you don't have it already, you probably aren't going to need it when you get there; but in the off-chance you do really need it in this new country, it can always be purchased when you get there.

Crazy Shopping the First Few Weeks: After you land and you get settled in, there is undoubtedly going to be shopping to be done. Whether you are living in an apartment, dorm or with a family, there will be things you have to buy. Stores are going to be different in other countries, and all this newness makes you want to try everything. Don't. If you need to buy soap and shampoo, buy soap and shampoo, not soap, shampoo and every type of candybar you've never encountered before. Fashion trends in different countries are likely to make you feel like a foreigner, and you'll want to spruce up your wardrobe a little. Go for it. But keep in mind that you probably won't feel entirely comfortable dressing for this new fad right away, so stick to things that can be mixed and matched with what you already have. Try accessorizing for ten to twenty dollars instead of buying an outfit for 200 that a week ago you wouldn't be caught dead in. Remember, you're taking it home at the end of the semester.