Planning to purchase everything you can't bring before embarking on a semester abroad can be stressful. However, many locations in the United States make it straightforward and easy to get supplies, clothing, and other home goods you might need. SAF Korea Global Ambassador Chaehee Moon studied at San Jose State University and shed some light on getting ready to live abroad. Many students like Chaehee go to SJSU to study abroad, located in California’s popular Bay region. Here are shopping tips she has for international students studying abroad in the United States:
Amazon Prime Student
The Amazon Prime student program is excellent for people learning abroad in the United States. New members get free services for six months (and may cancel any time), after which they pay half the usual prime rate. Since most international students are only in the country for a semester, this is a smart option for receiving free delivery on all Amazon items and many other perks.
Amazon Prime Student members also get additional benefits and discounts, such as free meal delivery from GrubHub, a percentage off hotels and flights, one month of free online tutoring, and much more. The program is for those aged 18 to 24, and users must prove their eligibility with a valid student email, student ID, and evidence of enrollment.
Target
Target can be found in almost every city in the United States, and it has become one of the most popular places for college-aged students who are shopping on a budget. The business sports a bright red bullseye sign and offers charming themed home décor, bedding, cushions, lights, kitchenware, and clothing. Their collection has a little bit of everything and can help you pack for a last-minute weekend vacation to the beach or a hike in the mountains. Many retailers also sell food goods at reasonable prices.
Walmart
As a SJSU study abroad participant, Chaehee states, “As soon as I arrived, I went to Walmart to buy daily necessities without having time to adjust to the time difference. Because I had a lot of other baggage, I didn't bring any bedding from Korea, and I bought my essentials there.”
Walmart is another retailer that sells about everything you might need or desire for the home. It is one of the largest chain shops in the United States, with at least one location near most campuses. Clothing, shoes, household goods, pharmaceutical products, sports equipment, and food are just a few items you may buy for your on- or off-campus living requirements. This business is one of the cheaper alternatives, and although it may offer quality things, it may only carry a few brands.
Ross
Ross shops are another countrywide business that sells a broad range of apparel, luggage, home items, and shoes at low costs. Their selection changes often and varies by region, although they carry well-known brands like Nike, Tommy Bahama, Adidas, Polo, Nautica, etc. Their products are far less expensive than those sold at major-name retailers, giving them excellent value. What's nice about Ross is that you can go a couple of times a month and see new items that weren't there before, so if you find anything you like, grab it while it's still there!
IKEA
IKEA shops may be located all over the globe and are often regarded as a one-stop shop for home furnishings, design, lighting, and textiles. Students like buying at this retailer because of its low costs, simple assembly instructions, and elegant designs that make any dorm room seem like home. IKEA goods are incredibly adaptable and may complement any home concept, yet many materials are lightweight and easy to relocate. Many retailers have student discounts or back-to-school sale events, so watch for them before your study abroad start date.
Social Marketplaces
Social marketplaces such as Facebook Marketplace, Mercari, and PoshMark provide additional opportunities to locate excellent discounts. While most products are used, sellers frequently offer brand-new clothes, furniture, other equipment, and just about everything you can think of for your daily requirements. Sometimes, buying secondhand is faster and more cost-effective than getting new things. If you're only in the country for a limited period of time, why not save your money for going out or traveling by snagging an incredible marketplace bargain?
Mercari and PoshMark offer a variety of ways for shoppers to sell and receive items.
When it comes to packing for your semester abroad, don’t stress about bringing everything you need for four months. These stores will have you covered for all of your known and unforeseen needs.
