Not to sound cliché, but we can’t say this enough: pack light! Check with your airline to see what size bags they allow to avoid paying any fees.

Most travelers find it easiest to go without checking bag. Here are some tips for getting as much as possible into that carry-on suitcase:

• Wear your bulkiest shoes on the plane and pack the lighter ones. Same thing goes for jackets and heavier clothing.
• Packing cubes or vacuum seal bags can save space and help you stay organized.
• Make the most of your personal item by using a tote bag or backpack that you can reuse throughout the trip.
• Roll your clothes instead of folding them. Pack the bigger items first and use smaller items like socks and underwear to fill in the gaps.

To see a full packing list, check out our Pocket Guide to Expert Travel. Just make sure you don’t forget these: 

• Passport—bring a photo copy and leave one at home too
• Visa (if applicable)
• ATM card and credit card
• Entertainment—for the plane and travel days
• Purse or small day bag with a zipper 
• Converter/adapter for any electronics
• Toiletries
• Washcloth—optional, but they aren’t always available
• Medications and a copy of any prescriptions*
• Comfortable, casual clothing
• A scarf or shawl—for entering religious sites
• Dressier outfit
• Appropriate clothing for school visits
• Raincoat and umbrella
• Comfortable walking shoes—for example, one pair of sneakers and one pair of sandals
• Warm layers
• The Pocket Guide to Expert Travel
• EF's emergency numbers
  • ​Calling from within the US: 1-800-873-2250
  • Calling from abroad: 001-617-619-2913

*All medications should be in their original containers. Put medications in your carry-on bag only, in case a checked bag gets lost or delayed.

Traveler tip: In the spring and summer, there is little to no darkness at night. You may want to pack a sleep mask to cover your eyes. Conversely if you are traveling in the winter or fall, there is very little sunlight during the day.

Love to read as much as we do? Here are some of our favorites to inspire you before you leave, keep you company in transit, and feed your wanderlust after you return: 

• The Nordic Theory of Everything: In Search of a Better Life by Anu Partanen
• The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
• The Finnish Way: Finding Courage, Wellness, and Happiness Through the Power of Sisu by Katja Pantzar

• Mo' money, less problems: Budget $50 to $70 for pocket money per day. This will cover five lunches, four dinners, souvenirs, and additional activities. If you’re an especially avid souvenir hunter, you’ll want to give yourself more wiggle room—financially and in your suitcase.
• Currencies: Euro (Finland) and Swedish Krona (Sweden). You can exchange money before you leave, but we recommend just withdrawing some cash from an ATM when you arrive in each city.
• Tips for tipping: We suggest $6-8 per day for your Field Director, inclusive of the day you arrive at your first program destination and meet your Field Director, and ending the day you depart for home. Your Group Leader will likely collect this money before you depart so that you can budget accordingly. 

P.S. Be sure to let your bank know you’ll be traveling so they can put an alert on your account.

Imagine it: you’ve finally arrived. It’s been a few hours since you left home, but your feet are firmly planted on the ground again. Today’s challenge? Fight off jetlag and make the most of the day.

Unless you arrive at night, be prepared to hit the ground running. Staying awake on arrival day is the best way to fight jet lag and adjust to the time difference. If there are other groups on your program, you may wait at the airport for them to arrive. To make things a bit easier:

• Have toiletries and a change of clothes on hand for when you land.
• Stay hydrated—it helps reduce jetlag.
• Travel in comfort, not necessarily in style, and get as much sleep as you can on the flight before.

Your dedicated Field Director—a physical, and for some, spiritual guide—will be with you throughout your program. Our Field Directors work tirelessly behind the scenes to coordinate logistics like managing reservations and making sure everything flows seamlessly, so that you can enjoy your time without sweating the details. They are there to acquaint you with each new city and make sure everyone is safe, confident, and making the most of every moment.

You’ll spend very little time at your hotel (consciously, anyway), but you should still be aware of where you’re staying and who you’re staying there with.

• Hotel du jour: Country-hopping means hotel-hopping, but don’t worry; each hotel is safe, clean, comfortable, and equipped with private bathrooms. Hotels are typically 30–45 minutes from the city center via public transit, which comes in handy if you want to check out different areas and blend in with the locals. 
• What to expect: Hotels abroad may feature smaller rooms than you’re used to and may not have air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, television, or elevators. All the more reason to get out and explore. 
• Roomies: Unless you have opted to upgrade your room, standard accommodations mean you’ll be rooming with two or three other people of the same gender, each with your own bed. You may even take part in an exchange program—that is, rooming with a traveler(s) from another school in your group.

Kick off each day with an included continental breakfast. One lunch and two dinners will be included, too.  We work with local restaurants to provide plated meals inspired by the region, giving you the opportunity to experience authentic dishes. Other dinners and lunches are your opportunity to explore the cuisine as you see fit. Will you go in search of familiar comfort food or try something outside your comfort zone?

Scandinavia has a distinct cuisine which reflects the local traditions and natural surroundings. Both Helsinki and Stockholm are home to world class restaurants and international cuisines that reflect the diversity of residents who call these cities home.

• In Sweden, common dishes include Swedish meatballs, salmon, and lingonberries.
• In Helsinki, you will find pickled herring, rye bread, grilled sausages, and cinnamon buns called pulla.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, try the reindeer!

Traveler tip: Fika is the Swedish tradition of taking a break mid-afternoon to have a coffee and pastry while socializing with friends, family, or colleagues.

Since teleportation hasn’t been invented yet, you’ll need these to get from point A to point B (and C and D and E):

• Flights: Overnight to Helsinki and home from Stockholm
• Bus: Primary mode of transportation on the ground
• Overnight ferry: From Helsinki to Stockholm
• Walking: Hands down the best way to explore a new city

Traveler tip: For the overnight ferry, your larger luggage will be stowed away and you will be able to bring one overnight bag to use for the night.