Travel to your destination

Most exchange students travel to their destination on their own, because all students are traveling from different places in the country. But depending on where you’re going and how many people are going to the same place, there may be multiple students on the same trip. That’s why it is good to use the yellow STS backpack that you received from us. It makes it easy for you and other exchange students to spot one another if you’re on the same journey. Using your yellow STS backpack will also make it easier for your host family and our staff to see you when meeting them on the train platform or at the airport.

Your departure for your new adventure depends on when school starts and when your host family can receive you. Remember: many schools abroad begin in September. If Welcome Camp is part of your trip, you'll go there first and then on to your final destination.

STS will book your travel and send you your tickets when the trip is approaching. The travel documents are digital and will be available on your phone. Remember to have your passport, visa, and other travel documents easily accessible in your carry-on luggage. The address and phone number of your host family, and of your local coordinator, should also be easily available.

10 things to pack in your suitcase

Remember to pack as light as possible. In a whole year abroad, you will end up getting lots of new things that you will probably want to be able to bring home with you. But a few items that may be good to bring are:

1. Passport and vaccination information/certificate
2. A phone, headphones and possibly a camera
3. Computer
4. Chargers and adapters if your host country has different electrical outlets than you have at home.
5. Prescription medications
6. Hygiene products for when you first arrive
7. If you wear glasses, bring an extra pair
8. Clothing: will you have a uniform at school, or are there other dress codes you need to consider? Also keep in mind that you will buy a lot of clothing there.
9. Your favorite items you don't want to be without
10. A small gift for your host family. It doesn't have to be anything big or lavish. Your favorite candy or a cookbook with recipes from your country is a great gift!

Once you’ve been in touch with your host family, ask them for tips as well!

Arrival in your host country

When you arrive at your destination, we will meet you at the train station or airport. Then we will go meet your host family together. When you reach your host family, it is good to talk about what the rules are and how you and your host family function as early as possible. This way, you can avoid a lot of misunderstandings from the beginning.

It’s also good to know that we sometimes take pictures of our students at Welcome Camp. These pictures may be shared on STS’ social channels, such as TikTok, Instagram and Facebook. If you or your parents do not want you to be included in the picture, it is important that you notify us well before your departure.