This blog post was written by our student ambassador Ashley Vanessa, who is a student of the Computer Science programme at University of Tartu.
So, you got accepted to study in Estonia? Congratulations! You did it! I remember how excited I was when I found out I was moving to Estonia. Now that I’ve survived the move and settled in, here are a few things I really wish someone had told me before I packed my bags.
1.Take Your Comfort Items
I’m not talking about hauling your entire bedroom across continents, but those small everyday treasures that make any space feel like home. Pack them! You won’t regret it! Your favorite snacks or spices as some are expensive or hard to find here, especially the spices. Haircare products that work for your hair type. It’ll probably take a little time until you can find items that work for you. Take maybe your favorite sweater, a family picture or teddy bear, these might have sentimental value and might help when you are feeling homesick. Having your “comfort kit” makes the transition way smoother.
2. Airlines have student deals, so use them
This is something I didn’t know until it was too late. Many airlines offer special deals for students, but you usually have to apply for them in advance. For example, Turkish Airlines gives student travelers extra baggage allowance, flexible ticket changes and discounted fares in some cases. However, to get these deals you need to register as a student on their website and apply for the student fare before you book your flight, not after. Other airlines like Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, and Emirates sometimes have student promos too, so always check the airline’s website.
3. Pack Smart, Travel Light
Wear your heaviest items when you travel like boots or your hoodie, or anything bulky. Just make sure you’re still comfortable for the journey. It frees up space and cuts down the weight in your checked luggage. And seriously, weigh your bags before you leave. Borrow or buy a luggage scale. It’s a small thing that saves you from the airport floor repack moment.
4. Visit Your Doctor
Before you leave, go see your doctor for a general check-up. Just make sure everything’s in good shape before you hop on that flight. While you're there, ask for a printed health summary, especially if you have any allergies, chronic illnesses, or medications you’re on. It doesn’t have to be fancy, just something you can show a doctor abroad if needed. Also, stock up on your meds. If you’re taking any long-term medication, try to get at least a 3-month supply. Once you arrive in Estonia, it might take a while to get registered with a local doctor or even get a prescription refill.
5. Make a List Based on Your Dorm
Check what your dorm already comes with. Do they give you bedding? A kettle? A mini fridge? No need to pack what’s already waiting for you.
6. Don’t Rush to Buy a SIM Card
Wi-Fi is basically everywhere in Estonia. You don’t need to waste money on an expensive eSIM. Once you arrive, just walk into any phone store and get a cheap, reliable SIM card (Super, Telia, Elisa, etc.).
7. Join Student Groups Before You Arrive
If there’s one thing that made my move to Estonia feel way less overwhelming, it was the student groups. They help because you find people who are in the same boat as you and some that have been through the same thing you are facing and can offer solid advice.
8. Ride & Explore
One of the best things about living in Estonia is that public transport is so easy to use, and it is always on time. In cities like Tallinn, you can ride buses for free with a registered card. In Tartu, if you register your bus card you can get discounts. Use that to your advantage. Take weekend trips to explore beyond your campus bubble: Catch a bus to Tallinn’s Old Town, or even head to Pärnu for beach vibes. And don’t forget seasonal events, Christmas markets, midsummer festivals, and light shows are easy to get to without needing a car. You can also download apps like T-Pilet, Elron, or Google Maps for routes, tickets, and schedules.
Moving abroad can be exciting and overwhelming all at once. And while no one has all the answers, having some of these things sorted made the transition way smoother for me.
Find out which international degree programmes are available for you in Estonia.
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