A First-Time Survival Guide for Erasmus+ Students to Help With Cooking, Shopping & Laundry

For many students, Erasmus+ mobility will be their first experience living away from home for an extended period of time. While the focus is often on studying, or work placements and cultural exchange, everyday responsibilities quickly become a large part of the experience. There are simple tasks to get to grips with, such as preparing meals, doing laundry or buying groceries. For many, these might feel unfamiliar at first, especially in a different country where routines, products and expectations may be different. This is why learning to manage these everyday activities confidently helps students become more independent and enjoy their international experience to the fullest.

1. Getting Comfortable in the Kitchen

Cooking abroad doesn’t have to be complicated. Many students start by preparing simple meals that require only a few ingredients and basic kitchen equipment. We’d also suggest that prior to going abroad, students learn how to cook very basic dishes at home in their own kitchen so they have some ability before going on their Erasmus+.

Shopping at local markets or supermarkets can also become part of the cultural experience. Students often discover new ingredients and dishes while learning how food is prepared in their host country.

Starting with simple recipes and gradually experimenting with local products helps build confidence in the kitchen. Some students find they love cooking so much that they become rather good at it, surprising their friends and family when they get home by creating delicious dishes!

2. Understanding Local Supermarkets and Food Culture

Supermarkets can look very different from country to country. Product names, packaging and store layouts may initially feel confusing, especially when labels are written in another language. Students may notice differences in how food is organised or sold. For example, fresh produce might be purchased in local markets rather than large supermarkets (or both), and certain everyday items may be stored in unexpected sections of the store. Taking time to explore local shops and asking for help when needed quickly makes grocery shopping easier. Students shouldn’t feel shy asking for help from supermarket staff or market vendors - and this is a good way to boost language skills too.

3. Managing Laundry Abroad

Laundry is another everyday task that students must manage independently during mobility. In some accommodation, washing machines are available in shared laundry rooms, while in other cases students may need to visit local laundromats.

Before using unfamiliar machines, it is helpful to check instructions carefully or ask accommodation staff for guidance. Understanding temperature settings and detergent use can prevent mistakes. Often washing machines and dryers are slightly different abroad but understanding how to use these machines back home can make a real difference! Do get used to what to do before going away on an Erasmus+.

4. Budgeting for Everyday Expenses

Living abroad also means managing daily expenses responsibly. Groceries, laundry services and small household items can quickly add up if students don’t pay attention to their spending habits.

Students often find it helpful to set a simple weekly budget for food and daily necessities. Shopping in local markets, shopping locally, comparing supermarket prices and preparing meals at home can help keep costs manageable.

Developing positive budgeting habits is an important part of learning independence.

Learning Through Small Challenges

At first, these everyday tasks may feel unfamiliar or even stressful. However, they are also valuable opportunities for personal development. Cooking meals, organising laundry or navigating local supermarkets helps students gain confidence and independence. These small achievements often become some of the most memorable parts of the Erasmus+ experience. Over time, what once seemed challenging becomes part of a comfortable daily routine.

Tips for Managing Daily Life Abroad

Students can make their daily routine easier by developing a few practical habits early on in their mobility experience. Here are a few useful tips:

• Plan simple meals for the week before shopping.
• Ask local students for supermarket recommendations, or if there are housemates already there, ask them.
• Learn basic food vocabulary in the local language.
• Keep small coins available for laundromats or shared machines.

These small suggestions help students adapt faster to their new environment.

What This Means for Erasmus+ Students

Living abroad involves much more than studying or working. Everyday tasks such as cooking, shopping and doing laundry play an important role in building independence. Students who learn to manage these routines quickly feel more comfortable and confident in their new surroundings. Over time, these small life skills become part of the broader learning experience that Erasmus+ mobility offers.

Student Life Abroad FAQs

Q: Do students need strong cooking skills before travelling?

A: No, basic cooking skills are enough and students often improve naturally during their mobility experience.

Q: Are supermarkets very different in other countries?

A: Sometimes. Product organisation and packaging may vary, but students usually adapt quickly and most countries have everything they want or need.

Q: Is managing daily life part of the Erasmus+ learning experience?

A: Yes, living independently abroad helps students develop valuable life and problem-solving skills.

To Sum Up

Adjusting to everyday life abroad is an important part of the Erasmus+ journey. Cooking meals, managing laundry and shopping in local stores may seem small tasks, but they help students build independence and confidence. These experiences often become valuable lessons that extend far beyond the classroom.

If your school wants students to feel confident and prepared for life abroad, TravelEdventures supports programmes that help students adapt quickly to international living and learning environments. Reach out to us here and let’s plan your next mobility with confidence.