johnsonl@illinoistech.edu · 703.608.8105
kowalczyk@illinoistech.edu · 847.644.2089
kmills2@illinoistech.edu · 847.845.1564
▸ Practical Guidance (from the travel doc)
Group up — no one should stay somewhere alone. For major cities (London, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Copenhagen) Airbnb group apartments may be cheaper and more comfortable than hostel dorms. Hostels below are the best solo/small-group options. Wherever you stay: be courteous, clean, and mind your stuff.
UK is largely contactless — tap-to-pay is universal, some vendors don't accept cash. Notify your bank before departure. Bring at least two payment methods. Keep card and passport separate and out of outer pockets. VAT is usually included in posted prices. Cost of living is higher than the US — keep a frugal eye.
Arrive each morning having had breakfast. Carry lunch and snacks in your daypack — group sessions don't stop to procure food. Most hostels have free breakfast and a kitchen; making dinner together saves money. After class you can explore local restaurants or self-cater with local ingredients.
No rolling luggage — 40–50L internal-frame backpack with waist belt only. Pack for 5–7 days and do laundry. Layers are key: 60–70°F in London, 40–50°F in the Highlands at night. Lightweight raincoat is essential. Break in your shoes before departure. Bring a refillable water bottle, flip-flops for hostel showers, and a thin rope for a laundry line.
Minimize devices — leave laptops and tablets at home. Wi-Fi is available nightly at all lodgings. Keep cellular data/roaming off and use Wi-Fi only. A local prepaid SIM or eSIM is cheaper than carrier roaming plans for emergency calls. Stow sketchbook supplies (sharps, fluids) in checked baggage when flying.
Passport on your person at all times (inside pocket or money belt). Scan all documents and email to yourself and Prof. Johnson before departure. Bring proof of health insurance. Carry basic OTC meds: antidiarrheal, antihistamine, painkiller, motion-sickness tabs. Prescription meds: bring enough for the full trip with pharmacy label. Student ID for museum discounts.
Scottish midsummer days stretch past 18 hours. You will be exhausted from long days out — resist the urge to stay up late. Pack an eye mask if you need darkness to sleep.
Attendance is mandatory — the train will not wait. Zero tolerance for inebriation. No pocket knives with locking blades (illegal in the UK). Walk confidently, stay low-profile, don't go anywhere alone or impaired. Your US constitutional rights do not follow you abroad.