So, you’ve decided to study somewhere—or just travel—where the lights have a mind of their own. Unreliable electricity or power that’s always tripping off sounds intimidating at first, but honestly? It doesn’t have to be a disaster. In fact, learning to work around it can be a weirdly memorable part of the experience. Here’s what I wish I’d known before I gave it a shot as a broke (and often confused) college traveler.
Know What You’re In For and Laugh at the Chaos
Let’s be real: The power WILL go out. Sometimes it’s just for ten minutes, other times you’re lighting a candle and listening to your stomach growl. I always check the State Department’s travel site for whatever country I’m heading to. Local college Facebook groups or Reddit pages help too—nobody gives better advice on when and how things usually go dark than fellow students or expats.
Power Up Everything, Including Yourself
A dead phone is public enemy number one. Pack one of those power banks with enough juice to recharge your phone a few times over (no joke—mine once saved a whole hostel dorm from despair). Those dinky keychain flashlights are a lifesaver and barely take up space. Old-school alarm clock? Yes. Trust me, after you sleep through your third morning class because your phone alarm died, you’ll get it.
Stick a couple small bills in your wallet, stashed behind something you rarely use. ATMs and card machines love dropping offline exactly when you need them. Don’t be caught with only plastic, or you’ll be rationing one cold soda over six hours.
Eat, Drink, and Plan For the Dark
Nothing sucks like wandering hungrier by the minute, only to find every kitchen powered by electricity. I got in the habit of asking around for places with gas stoves or backup generators—locals always know. Mini-marts come through too, especially for snacks that don’t need refrigeration. Keep a bit of bottled water handy in case the taps stop working.
Keep It Fun (or At Least Sane)
Here’s the upside: You’ll have excuses to unplug and talk to actual humans instead of just doomscrolling. Some of my best nights abroad happened during a blackout—impromptu guitar jams, card games with complete strangers, sketches by candlelight. At worst, you’ll get closer with whoever’s stuck in the dark next to you.
If you’re feeling nervous—especially safety-wise—stick with friends after sunset or check the CDC’s college travel guide for smart safety tips. Remember, everyone’s in the same boat. It’s the least-Instagrammable moments that end up as your favorite stories.
As a few last words of advice, always carry snacks. And laugh when the lights pop back on and everyone cheers. It’s a small thing, but in a place where you never quite know what’s coming, even light can feel like a celebration.
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