As you get ready for your exciting journey to Santa Barbara City College, making the right choices while packing will set you up for a fantastic adventure in sunny California. But we all know how overwhelming packing can be, especially when moving abroad…Hey there, I'm
Lea, an international student from Germany. I still remember how hard it was to pack up my life in a suitcase, so I decided to create a broad guide to help you pack efficiently and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.
Here at the “American Riviera”, the climate consists warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The climate is often referred to as Mediterranean climate, which includes sunny days and cooler evenings. To adapt to this weather, pack versatile and lightweight clothing. Think of a few pairs of jeans or casual pants, a selection of t-shirts that can be easily mixed and matched, and a few shorts, skirts and dresses for warmer days. Since evenings can get chilly, especially in the winter months, a light jacket or a couple sweaters are essential. Additionally, with the strong California sun, don’t forget to pack sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen to keep your skin protected during outdoor activities.
Given Santa Barbara’s beautiful beaches and numerous outdoor opportunities, packing appropriately is important. Include a swimsuit, beach towel, and flip-flops for beach days. If working out, hiking or exploring nature is on your bucket list, bring sturdy athletic shoes and comfortable workout clothes. While you can purchase additional outdoor gear locally, having these basics with you will allow you to dive into your favorite activities as soon as you arrive.
One of the perks of moving to Santa Barbara is the variety of local shopping options. Stores like Target and Walmart are readily available and offer a large assortment of clothing, toiletries, and household items. To avoid overpacking, bring only the essentials as well as your favorites, and plan to buy any additional items you need once you’re settled. For school supplies, you can count on SBCC’s campus store, which is well-stocked with notebooks, pens, and other school materials. This way, you can save suitcase space for personal belongings.
Since there’s always a chance your checked luggage could be delayed, packing a carry-on bag with crucial items is a smart move. In this bag, include a change of clothes to ensure you have something fresh to wear if your main luggage is delayed. Also, pack basic toiletries like travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and toothpaste to keep yourself comfortable during your travels as well as the initial days. Keep important documents, such as your passport, visa and other documents, easily accessible in your personal item, which can be a backpack, purse or belt bag. It’s also a good idea to include any necessary medications and a few electronics, like your phone and charger, so you can stay connected and prepared.
To make the most of your suitcase space, consider using packing cubes or vacuum bags to organize your clothing and save room. Rolling your clothes instead of folding them can also help maximize space.
Once you arrive in Santa Barbara, take some time to explore your new neighborhood and locate nearby grocery stores, pharmacies, and other essential services. Familiarizing yourself with these resources will help you settle in more smoothly.
With these packing strategies and an adventurous mindset, you're set to have the time of your life at Santa Barbara City College. Get ready to create unforgettable memories and enjoy every moment of your journey in this stunning coastal town!
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