Technology Considerations

Electrical systems are different around the world. In some places you need a power converter and/or plug adapter to use U.S. appliances. Even with a converter, some U.S. appliances still might not work properly. For a guide on what kind of power plug you'll need abroad, visit this page.

• American appliances and gadgets run on 120 volts, while most of the world is on 220 volts. Newer travel accessories and electronic gadgets are often “dual voltage,” which means they work on both American and world current.
  • If you see a range of voltages printed on the item or its plug (such as “110–240”), you’re OK. If not, you will need a power converter or to purchase a version that can work overseas.
• Power converters are bulky, need to be used correctly, and may not last for a long time. We recommend opting to not get a converter and instead purchase dual-voltage devices or a local device when you get there.
• A small plug adapter allows American-style plugs (two flat prongs) to fit into other countries’ outlets. Make sure not to leave adapters behind in outlets! These are always cheaper in the U.S. so buy a few before you leave.
• Many students find that it is easiest to buy hair dryers and other appliances at the program site. If you take battery-operated gadgets, be aware that batteries are more expensive abroad!

If you find you must take valuable items such as laptops, smart phones, or DSLR cameras, consider insuring them before you leave. Check with your insurance company to see how to insure it against damage or theft overseas, and check with the manufacturer for instructions about using a converter to deal with the voltage or cycle differences.

If you're bringing your laptop, be sure to bring your full charging chord with you- although must laptops have bulkier chargers and power adapters, most laptops will only charge on the provided charger.

Your phone camera is invaluable during your study abroad experience- taking photos is a great way to hold onto your memories abroad for years to come. Taking photos on your phone can make it easier to share photos with your friends and family, too! But, also try not to go overboard with taking photos of every experience you have. Some experiences may be better with your full focus- to live in the moment, rather than just having a picture of it for picture's sake.

If your experience is being hindered by the constant need to take photographs and post online, you may want to take a break from social media and your camera. Don’t sacrifice the experience you can have in the moment for some photos to look at later. Over-use of the camera and social media can take away from your travel experience by removing some of the spontaneity while you look for the perfect shot.

If you're using your phone as a camera, pay attention to how much storage space you have for photos and consider paying extra for more cloud storage or utilizing Google Photos as a storage alternative.

Bringing a physical camera abroad may not be necessary. Smart phone technology takes high-quality photos and may be all you need to capture your experience. A physical camera can add more weight to your luggage, make you an easy target for pickpockets (since a camera may make you look more like a "tourist"), and be another expensive piece of tech for you to worry about. Keep in mind the "less-is-more" mindset when packing your tech.

If you ultimately decide to pack a physical camera, make sure that you have an adapter and the original charger as well as enough memory cards for photos. Consider paying extra for a high-quality, anti-shake camera and lens.

For regular use and access to help in an emergency, you should plan to have a working cell phone with data service during your program. Many programs even require you to have this. This may not be as simple as taking your current phone abroad; there are a few things you’ll want to consider.

You essentially have three options for using your phone abroad. You can:

• Get a phone plan with a local provider in your host country. Most phones now have an E-Sim so phones that are unlocked can just get a new ESIM with a new phone provider that would give you an international phone number. Just know how to make overseas calls from your host country- you’ll need to know country calling codes. Be sure your family and friends know how to dial from the United States to call you as well.
  • Pros: you'll have access to a local phone number, the phone plans are affordable, and coverage is reliable
  • Cons: your phone must be unlocked, home country calls can have additional fees, you may need to end your phone plan before leaving your study abroad, may not be best option for short-term programs
• Look into an International Plan with your service provider/other US providers. Many US phone plan providers have international plans.
  • Pros: you'll keep your same phone number, can be fully arranged before arrival 
  • Cons: for longer-term study abroad, this option can be very expensive since you are typically charged per day that the international minutes/data is used, your phone number will be an international number to locals who may not have international calling plans. 
• Use free calling/messaging apps. Apps like WhatsApp are commonly used abroad, but you can only make calls and send texts when on wifi. This is not recommended for students as the only option- students should have some kind of access to the internet/data while abroad, which may be required by some programs.
  • Pros: WhatsApp is free and easy to set up
  • Cons: Since the app is only for calling and texting, you wouldn't have data while abroad with this option alone. It's imperative to have data while abroad for internet access as well as Google or Apple maps- which is useful while traveling.

Apps for smartphones and tablets can be useful to download before you leave. Most devices already have handy apps, but you should also consider downloading apps for reviews, translators, or local transportation apps. Depending on which phone plan you choose, your phone may not let you download or update apps on your phone while abroad, so consider downloading them before you leave.

For many mobile apps, you need to be online to download the latest information or doing so will incur data charges. You can incur outrageously high data roaming fees if you try to access these apps while not on WiFi, so pay attention!