Good on you for making that brave step forward onto unchartered territories to pursue your dreams! Yet, before you take on the great big world all bright-eyed and bushy-tailed — here are some tips to ensure that you’re well-equipped to handle the dreaded homesickness whenever it hits.

If there’s one thing we’ve all come to realise, it’s the fact that our island city is really tiny. So if you’ve been presented with the opportunity to live abroad, whether for a semester or a couple of years, go for it! The experience of immersing yourself in a different culture, and being away from all that you know, is equal parts daunting and exciting. Exciting because living like a local in a foreign land builds character and broadens your perspective. Daunting because, well, no one is infallible — even seasoned travellers get homesick.

Yes, we’re talking about that tear-inducing, mind-numbing, and body-paralysing cloud of dread that depletes its victim of any will to embrace their new adventure. It is that insidious voice that convinces, even the bravest of us, to run back to the comforts of home — even before we’ve succeeded with whatever we have set out to do in the first place.

But don’t worry, to ensure that you’re well-equipped to deal with whatever comes your way, we’ve put together our list of tried-and-tested items that’ll help combat those feelings. Read on for the full list! 👇 

1. First Thing’s First: Food, Glorious Food! 🍜🍣

Sure, the idea of living abroad is, for the most part, to immerse yourself in the host country’s culture — food included. However, when you’ve lived in a city that’s often touted as a culinary paradise for most of your life, it’s easy to see why this category deserves a spot on the list, and definitely your luggage. 

[ Editor’s note: This is true. I’ve got a best friend who studied in the US and she can’t go one meal without referencing her mother’s cooking. Well, that’s an exaggeration but you get the drift. ]

We recommend choosing items that don’t take up too much space — and premixes that don’t require 1,001 complementary ingredients. Milo packets (as opposed to tins) are surefire winners, as are Ba Kut Teh sachets, and of course, premises of local dishes.

Image credits: Toast Box

Often, the best way to win the hearts of your new flatmates, or friends, is through their bellies — especially on cultural potluck nights! These premixes by Toast Box are known to taste good whilst being really easy to prepare. Of course, if you still prefer the OG Prima Deli for its wide range of options, here’s the link for your viewing (and shopping) pleasure — they’ve also got recipes for you to follow.

Tip: Already got your new home address? Search for Asian supermarkets on Google Maps and see if there are any in the vicinity. That way, you can decide how little or how much reinforcements you’ll need to bring from home!

Price: From S$5.50

Homesick? Purchase your cure here, or visit any Toast Box outlet islandwide.

2. Bring Along A Piece Of Home 🖼️

When the going gets tough, it’s important to never lose sight of what matters to you (literally). There’s something so personal and sentimental about owning physical photographs of loved ones, so we’d recommend taking the time to curate a small selection of your favourite memories and have them printed out. 

Image credits: Urban Outfitters

To up the aesthetics, you can purchase one of these lovely album frames for your desk. This one from Urban Outfitters may be dainty, but it can fit up to 28 polaroids! This way, you get to see your favourite faces every day AND have a nice little workspace accessory. #winwin

Tip: If you’re purchasing from Singapore, remember to visit the US site. Otherwise, you’ll be redirected to the Singapore site instead!

Price: US$16 (~S$21.65)

Homesick? Purchase your cure here.

3. Something New, Something Blue, Something Uniquely Singaporean

Sometimes, the only way to combat homesickness is to surround yourself with great company. Even if you lie in bed and binge on Instagram stories from back home, you won’t feel better. The world is moving, and so should you! Instead of moping, go out there and meet new people. Join clubs, attend parties — the phrase ‘the world is your oyster’ literally doesn’t apply more than when you’re studying overseas.

To help you get the conversation going, we recommend bringing along something uniquely Singaporean along with you on your day out.

Image credits: Pupsik

We love this How To Order Kopi tote bag because it definitely is a fun way to break the ice — and maybe even share your love for the local brew. Not a fan of kopi? Fret not. There’s also a teh version for all you tea drinkers out there. Either way, Shigga Shay sings it best in the local Kopitiam anthem, “Tapau”. 

Tip: When it’s time to go home, turn your reminder of Singapore into a farewell gift for your favourite housemate or friend! 

Price: From S$26 

Homesick? Purchase your cure here (kopi), or here (teh). 

4. Don’t Forget Those Creature Comforts 🙇‍♀️

For some, being homesick doesn’t just literally mean missing home. It can be missing a routine that you’re used to, or a specific ritual that’s familiar and comforting. 

To minimise the disruption of your day-to-day, we recommend bringing along that one creature comfort you absolutely cannot live without. That, however, comes with limits. For instance, it might not be such a good idea to lug around your giant plushie or pack 10 books into your backpack. Always adapt and improvise whenever possible! 

Image credits: Amazon

For me, reading has always been a way of decompressing and escaping from the mundanities and stressors of life. This is why my travel essential is a Kindle. When I was studying overseas, the Kindle accompanied me many a chill afternoon at the cafe as well as on long bus rides across states. It’s a great time-passer, but more importantly, it allowed me to unwind in the same way I would have if I were back in Singapore. Plus, it’s so compact that I could literally fit it into the inner pocket of my jacket!

Tip: Check out our quick guide on how you can purchase the Kindle Paperwhite at a cheaper price from Amazon US! 

Price: From USD$89.99 (~S$121.75)

Homesick? Purchase your cure here. 

5. For When You’re Feeling Under The Weather 💊

Image credits: Watsons, Guardian

Chances are, you’ll be heading off to a country that experiences all four seasons. For us, Singaporeans, who have only ever experienced summer, this might make us more susceptible to the sniffles — thus, the importance of a well-stocked medi-pack. 

While medication can be easily purchased over the counter, we’ve got our own local special go-to remedies — Po Chai pills for the upset stomach, Tiger Balm for colds and aches, and Pei Pa Koa for coughs!

Price: Pei Pa Koa Individual Sachets — S$6.70, Tiger Balm Tourist Favourites Pack — S$64.80 

Homesick? Purchase Pei Pa Koa here, and Tiger Balm here. 

6. Pack A Warm Hug 🧥

Hugs are pretty dang powerful, and now that you’re going to be away from your usual supply of snuggles and cuddles — you’ll need to improvise. Enter: your favourite hoodie. 

You might not immediately see how an article of clothing can help you alleviate the symptoms of homesickness, but, when you’re cold and maybe even a little miserable in a foreign land, having a soft and comfy pullover hits you differently. 

Image credits: American Apparel

If you don’t have a favourite comfy sweater yet? Here’s our recommendation: the quintessential American Apparel Flex Fleece hoodie feels as lush as a hug once you break into it — plus, it comes in 20 gorgeous colours. For maximum cuddle effect, get yours a little oversized.

Price: From US$12.15 (~S$16.40)

Homesick? Purchase your cure here. 

7. Penny For Your Thoughts 📝

In between travelling, partying, and studying, don’t forget to take some time for yourself. Journalling is a great way to feed your introspective mind and help you pick up on triggers that make you feel happy, sad, or anxious. Sometimes, combating homesickness requires a shift in perspective: don’t think about what you’re missing out on back at home, but instead focus on all the new experiences you stand to gain! 

We love this blank leatherette hardbound notebook from The Paper Bunny, not only because of the local touch it brings, but also because it comes with a super apt reminder. 

Image credits: The Paper Bunny

Tip: Use this chance to exercise those creative muscles by scrapbooking — save those polaroids, bus tickets, and concert wristbands to commemorate those experiences. You’d be glad you did!

Price: From S$18

Homesick? Purchase your cure here. 

Sick of Being Homesick

Living abroad for the very first time can be quite daunting, but we hope that this list will show you how to manage your emotions if you get homesick. The pandemic, with all its inconvenience and heartache, has unwittingly proved that spatial distance has nothing on us. With two years of Skype hangouts and phone calls on our belt, you’re likely to be more prepared than ever to take on the world bravely. So go forth and be the global citizen you’ve always wanted to be! 

Regardless of where in the world you end up for your studies, don’t forget to take your YouTrip Card along with you! As a (broke) student, every cent counts, which is where our Wholesale Exchange Rates will come in super handy too! You’ll thank us later. 

Not on YouTrip yet? Use promo code <BLOG5> to sign up and receive a free S$5 in your account. For more great guides like this, join our Telegram Channel (@YouTripSG) and subscribe to our free weekly newsletter here or down below!

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^{*All currency conversion rates are accurate to nearest 10 cents on 4 November 2021 SGT 16:00. Bank card prices are calculated based on 3.25% foreign currency transaction fee.}