Icons via Flaticon.com, Graphic by Asyrique Thevendran/TheGazelle

With J-Terms, spring breaks and study aways, students at NYU Abu Dhabi are either perpetually traveling or incessantly jet-lagged. Under these circumstances, we need all the help we can get to make these journeys more pleasurable. Here are seven things you can do to enjoy your travel experiences even more:

1.   Luggage – Having too little space is always a problem, especially if you go overboard with your shopping. To avoid this, simply roll your clothes when packing. Instead of creating a large folded pile in your suitcase, rolling allows you to fit more things. Plus, you can even roll underwear and socks inside your clothes for optimal space saving.

2.     ID – Scan your passport, identification card, itinerary and reservations and email them to yourself. In the event of loss or theft, you will have an extra copy of each document. Consider giving a copy to someone back home too, just in case you cannot access it yourself.

3.  Technology – In today’s world, practically everything can be done online; use this to your advantage. There are several applications and websites that can assist you with bookings and tourist information. Sophomore Daniel Brown recommends Kayak for cheap flights and Hostelbooker for booking hostels.

4.   Flight delays – These are unavoidable, so don’t get flustered when they occur. It is always best to check the schedule for your flight ahead of time so that you are not waiting unnecessarily at the airport. If you get bumped off your flight, be sure to call someone and let them know about the situation. It’s best to talk to your airline because they can have access to the most up-to-date information and can help you more quickly. Try not to be the one yelling at the customer service officers, since they’re the ones who will be helping you.

“While planning is key, I know that patience, persistence and lots of waiting may be a key part to any trip. Ask lots of questions and always be prepared for a plan B,” Gomez-Doyle said.

5.  Language barriers – English is not the primary mode of communication in many destinations, so learning the local language can be really helpful. If you just want to pick up a few words before your trip, then Mango Languages is the place to go.

You can take some lessons, take a quick look at a vocabulary list or just listen to everyday conversations in a new language.

“Mango is not as in-depth and intense like Rosetta Stone, and it also has a wide breadth of languages covered,” said NYUAD librarian Ilka Datig.

6.     Missing home – This may not be true for short trips, but over the course of a few months, it can be difficult to keep in touch with friends and family back home. Try to bring some lightweight objects that make you feel at home. These could include picture frames, stuffed animals and posters.

“I always try and bring the same toiletries so I can have some consistency in my life,” Brown said.

7.     Supplies – Always carry an emergency stash of food, water and extra batteries. They can be very useful when you are stranded in an airport or lost in the middle of nowhere. Better to be safe than sorry.

Traveling can be stressful, but there are ways to make it better.

“Don't plan too much and don't stress if things don't work out how you imagined,” Brown said. “Don't try and cram everything in in a short period of time, because it won't be enjoyable.”

Just embrace the chaos, think on your feet and enjoy the experience.