The Ultimate Study Abroad Gift Guide

It might sound cliche, but every study abroad journey is unique—just like the students who experience them. While the items you take don’t make or break your time abroad, they do have the ability to enhance it. With the holidays (and some big sales) around the corner, we’re here to share the best recommendations from previous study abroad students on what the best gifts are for study abroad—so you can ask your loved ones!

Whether you have to have the latest piece of tech or the go-to friend for style advice, we’ve curated a list of items that are travel approved and you’ll be sure to love.

Get your notes app ready, and let’s start building your wish list!

THE BEST STUDY ABROAD GIFTS FOR...

✈️ The Jet-Setter 🛍️ The Style Icon

🤳 The Tech Lover ✨ The Wellness Enthusiast 📚 The Book Obsessed

✈️ The Jet-Setter

The Jet-Setter lives and breathes travel: from weekend getaways to collecting passport stamps, the act of cultural immersion energizes you. With your love for travel, you can never go wrong with what’s tried and true:

Many of these are even items that can be purchased with your home university’s logo or mascot, for an extra feeling of home while in your host country.

Want a personalized touch? Ask for a passport holder or luggage tags that can include your name or favorite color.

“DUFFEL BAG!!! I had a large carryon roller luggage which is always great for US travel, but when flying with easyJet or Ryanair it was perfect to have a duffel bag which I could carry or strap onto my back and that worked as my one required item and held my necessities for a short 2/3 day trip.”
Alex C. • Denison University

🛍️ The Style Icon

You’re the type of person that created a Pinterest board and collection on TikTok long before you got a predeparture guide. The clothes and accessories you wear, express your personality and the places you’ve been (not to mention the places you’re going!). That’s why the gifts you’d adore, should be no different.

Did we mention offer fashion programs and internship options? Whether you’re turning the streets of Milan into your runway or getting inspiration from street style in Tokyo, these items will level up your study abroad wardrobe.

Pro Tip: Sometimes is less is really more. In “What to Pack in Your Suitcase and Still Have Space Left” Kashaf I. digs into her tips for outfit planning and packing without compromising on personal style.

🤳 The Tech Lover

The thrill of exploring somewhere new isn’t the only thing you crave, you’re drawn to the innovative technologies that shape our society. The best part? Your love for it can elevate your experiences abroad.

Picture this: checking all the steps you took exploring on a smart watch, tracking your luggage with a Bluetooth tracker, or popping on noise-cancelling headphones during a particularly loud flight keeping you focused on studying or that new playlist. Regardless of where your program takes you, here’s some gadgets that will keep you traveling like a pro:

“I'm an avid reader and couldn't possibly fit as many books as I'd like into my suitcase. I was gifted an e-reader a couple months before I went abroad, and it was absolutely perfect for my time in Berlin! I was able to borrow books from my home library, download PDFs of course readings, and even read the news all on one device.”
Tal P. • Brandeis University

✨ The Wellness Enthusiast

While studying abroad it can feel tempting to plan every minute. But just like in everyday life, taking time for yourself is still needed.

Every term we hear students reflect on ways they rest and recharge—and what items brought an extra sense of comfort. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing night in by yourself or with friends, we’ve gathered some goodies that will do the trick (without taking up too much luggage space).

📚 The Book Obsessed

You’re likely already used to traveling far away, deep into the pages of your latest read. Documentation and discovery are essential to your travel style. You’re the type who always has an endless TBR or is thinking of creative ways to chronicle your journeys. The dilemma of all bookworms is similar, how many notebooks and books can feasibly fit in your luggage? We’ve got your back. Here’s a few ideas to help capture and soak up every chapter of your study abroad story:

Don’t forget to explore local bookstores and libraries in your host country, they’re a perfect way for learning more about the culture. And for your junk journal, try collecting stickers, stamps or even transit tickets to make for memorable souvenirs.

“Anything pocket-sized that you’d enjoy! Small pocket-books were awesome for waiting or transport.”
Ellie O. • Pacific Lutheran University

There are so many options on what to pack before going abroad, but the best gift is having an open mind and a sense of adventure! So don’t get too caught up in the physical items, but if you’re already making a list, the items we suggested definitely won’t hurt 😉.

If you want more tips from students who just studied abroad, contact a previous IES Abroad student!

In the mood for inspiration on what to take abroad? Check out our 2024 Gift Guide

The Ultimate Study Abroad Gift Guide