pre-departure guide
Hungary
Pécs is waiting. Are you ready?
To help you prepare for your time down under, we’ve compiled a bunch of essential information and some logistical details into this guide. Find a comfy chair, grab your favorite beverage and take 20 minutes to go through this information. We’d also encourage you to share this guide with anyone important to you.
We have also included some tips for the Hop Well-Come. This four-day program has been specially designed to ease your transition into Europe, meet other students and our team, plus just have a little fun in quaint Mayrhofen. We think you will love it.
Thank you for trusting us to be your partner in this journey. We are going to be right there by your side, every step (or hop) of the way.
Enjoy the guide, reach out if you need anything and safe travels. We look forward to meeting you in Europe.
YOUR TEAM@HOP
essential documents
Passport: The big one! Numero Uno! This is the single most essential piece of documentation you’ll need during your time abroad. So it goes without saying that it is important to know where it is at all times and especially when traveling.
HOP HINT: Identify a place in your carry-on, or backpack where it goes and check EVERY TIME you move. Do the big three check - Passport, Phone and Wallet/Purse.
Students have left passports on check-in counters and airline seat backs multiple times before creating unnecessary stress to start the journey. When not in use, it is equally as important to stow your passport away in a safe place at your housing. We advise taking a pic of your passport and storing it on your phone in your favorites. If you were to ever lose your passport, it’s easier to obtain a new one if you have copies of the old one. When you move into your housing, some students choose to lock their passport into their unused luggage to keep track of it. You can also now buy passport holders that incorporate air tags as an additional security measure.
Student Visa: U.S. citizens can enter Hungary for up to 90 days without a visa. However, since your program extends beyond this period, you are required to apply for a Hungarian Residence Permit within 30 days of arrival. Your Hop Go-To will assist you with this process on the ground, including guidance on required documents and appointments. Once approved, your Residence Permit will allow you to legally remain in Hungary beyond the initial 90-day period. You will renew this permit after the first 90 days as part of your continued stay.
Health Insurances: You are covered under multiple health insurance policies, both via your host university and Hop Education Abroad. You may also have coverage with your U.S. institution or otherwise; more on health insurance functionality below. Please print and keep copies of your health insurance identification information for each policy you have.
Prescriptions: If you are traveling to Hungary (Schengen Area) with any prescription medications, you are instructed to keep the original prescriptions readily available in your luggage to show TSA officials if asked for.
Remember:
Do not lose your passport.
Make copies of your passport and health insurance identification information, along with your Hungarian Residence Permit upon receipt.
Check your medications before travel.
health insurance
You are covered under at least two health insurance policies while in country. One is provided by Hop Education Abroad and the other may be from home university or parents coverage. If you ever have questions on which policy to use, please reach out to Hop and we can guide you. Generally we would encourage using our policies to request reimbursements. Please ensure you have receipts for all expenses you wish to claim when using the policy.
In partnership with the CHUBB Group of Companies and AXA Travel Partners Assistance, Hop enrolls all students in our combined Health and Travel policy. Should you be traveling outside of your host destination during the program, you are advised to use this insurance (or any other relevant coverage you may have with your home institution or personally).
Below is a summary of included Hop benefits:
BENEFIT | MAXIMUM | NOTES |
|---|---|---|
Total Accident and Sickness | $USD 500,000.00 | Deductible $0 |
Hospital Room and Board | Included Above | Semi Private Room Rate |
Mental Health | $USD 5,000.00 | In Patient Treatment |
Prescription Drugs | 100% of Expenses Covered | In or Out Patient, Co-insurance |
Emergency Medical Evacuation | 100% of Expenses Covered | |
Emergency Medical Reunion | $USD 12,500.00 | |
Home Country Emergency Care | $USD 10,000.00 | Extension Benefit of further $10K (Up to 30 days) |
Security Evacuation | $USD 25,000.00 | Aggregate Limit of $250,000.00 |
Chiropractic Care | $USD 500.00 | $USD 50.00 per Visit (Up to max of $USD 500.00) |
Accidental Death | $USD 50,000.00 | Includes Dismemberment |
Repatriation | 100% of Expenses | |
Personal Belongings | $USD 1,000.00 | |
Cancellation/Delay/Interruption | $USD 6,000.00 | Max of $2,000 each Category |
Lost Luggage | $USD 500.00 | $500 per Bag |
Lost Credit Cards or Cash | $USD 500.00 | Cash Limit of $250.00 |
Hop Education Abroad carries Commercial General Liability Insurance through the CHUBB group of $USD 5,000,000.00 with a $USD 3,000,000.00 amount for each occurrence.
Crisis24 Horizon
At Hop Education Abroad, student safety is always a top priority. That’s why we provide access to Crisis24 Horizon, a powerful global travel risk and assistance app designed to help keep you informed, supported, and prepared wherever you are in the world. Crisis24 Horizon delivers real-time security alerts, health updates, and detailed country and city risk insights—all in one easy-to-use platform.
Available on iOS and Android, the Crisis24 Horizon app puts critical support right in your pocket. Students can receive location-specific alerts, stay up to date on evolving situations, identify nearby medical providers, and access multilingual assistance when it matters most. The app mirrors the robust tools available on desktop, ensuring reliable support on the go.
Backed by a dedicated global intelligence team and an international network of more than 40,000 vetted medical providers, Crisis24 Horizon offers 24/7 access to timely information and assistance. We’re proud to offer this essential resource so students—and their families—can feel confident knowing support is always within reach.
Key features include:
Health, medical, safety, and security insights by location
Country and city risk ratings with detailed profiles
Real-time news and security alerts with customizable notifications
Travel tips to help you prepare and stay informed
Access to a global network of trusted medical providers
With Crisis24 Horizon, Hop students can explore the world with greater confidence—knowing help and information are always close at hand.
Remember:
You have health coverage with multiple insurance providers for the full duration of your program.
Depending on the situation, one insurance policy may be preferred to use over the other.
When traveling outside of your host destination, you have health coverage with Hop’s coverage via CHUBB/AXA, but not the policy chosen by your host university.
Please download the Crisis24 Horizon app.
medications abroad
Traveling with Prescriptions:
You may bring up to three months’ worth of prescription medications with you to Hungary and the Schegen Area for personal use. Medications should be:
Clearly labeled with your name
In their original pharmacy packaging
Packed in your carry-on luggage (strongly recommended)
Keeping prescriptions in your carry-on allows you to easily answer any questions if airport security or customs officials inquire. Birth control medications and vitamins are typically permitted in larger quantities.
We strongly recommend bringing:
A copy of your prescription, and/or
A doctor’s letter explaining the medication and dosage
This is especially important for controlled or regulated medications.
Controlled Medications
Medications containing amphetamine or other controlled substances (such as Adderall) are more strictly regulated in Hungary and the EU.
For these medications:
You may bring up to a 30–90 day supply for personal use, depending on the medication
You must carry:
The medication in original packaging
A doctor’s letter stating:
Your diagnosis
The medication name and dosage
That it is prescribed for your personal use
You may be required to declare these medications at customs upon arrival. Requirements can vary, so documentation is critical.
Some U.S. prescriptions cannot be refilled or mailed into Hungary, especially stimulant medications. In certain cases, equivalent alternatives may be prescribed locally, but this is determined by Hungarian medical professionals.
If You Need More Medication While in Hungary
Since you will be in Hungary for longer than 90 days, you will need to arrange ongoing access to your medication locally.
If additional medication is required:
You may need to visit a Hungarian doctor after arrival to receive a local prescription.
Your Hop Go-To will help guide you through this process on the ground, including how to access healthcare services and pharmacies.
All students have health insurance coverage during their program and will receive information about medical services and clinics during orientation.
We recommend scheduling any needed medical appointments as soon as possible after arrival, as appointments may take time to secure.
Mailing Prescriptions
Mailing prescription medications internationally into Hungary is not recommended and may result in delays, confiscation, or destruction at customs—particularly for controlled substances.
Instead, students should plan to:
Bring an initial supply with proper documentation
Transition to local medical care and prescriptions if needed
Your Hop Go-To will assist you with understanding your options once you arrive.
Government websites with information on specific medications:
communications abroad
You have several options when it comes to using your phone while living in Hungary. Some of the most common options are outlined below.
International phone plan: Your U.S. phone carrier may offer an international plan that works in Hungary. Keep in mind that these plans can be quite expensive and are often not the most cost-effective option for a full semester. Many U.S. carriers charge around $100 USD per month for international access, sometimes with limited data.
eSIM card plan: eSIMs allow you to connect to local Hungarian networks digitally, without needing a physical SIM card. You can set this up before departure or after arrival. Data plans vary based on usage, but many students find options averaging $15–30 USD per month, making this a flexible and affordable choice.
Hungarian SIM card: If your phone is unlocked (able to work with carriers other than the one it was purchased from), you can purchase a physical Hungarian SIM card once you arrive. Popular providers include Telekom Hungary, Yettel, and Vodafone Hungary. This is often one of the most reliable and budget-friendly options, especially for longer stays. If you have an older unlocked smartphone, it can be a great option to use it with a local SIM.
Local phone: You may choose to purchase a low-cost phone in Hungary for domestic use and rely on Wi-Fi for your primary device. While this can be an inexpensive solution, carrying two phones can become inconvenient over time.
Our recommendation: Generally, we recommend using either an eSIM plan or a local Hungarian SIM card, either in your primary phone or a secondary device. These options tend to offer the best balance of flexibility, coverage, and affordability for the length of your program.
Internet: Internet access in Hungary is generally reliable, fast, and more affordable than in many parts of the U.S. Students typically have access to Wi-Fi at their accommodations, university buildings, cafés, and restaurants throughout cities like Pécs and Budapest.
Free Wi-Fi is widely available in urban areas, though coverage may become more limited when traveling to rural regions or smaller towns. If you anticipate heavy data use (such as video calls, streaming, or navigation while traveling), having a mobile data plan through a SIM or eSIM is highly recommended.
A mobile hotspot is also an option, particularly if you do not plan to purchase a Hungarian SIM card, though most students find a local SIM or eSIM sufficient for everyday needs.
Local emergency numbers to keep handy:
SERVICE | NUMBER | DETAILS |
Police, Fire, Ambulance (Emergency) | 112 | Unified emergency number across Hungary & the EU |
Police | 107 | Direct police emergency line |
Ambulance | 104 | Medical emergencies |
Fire Brigade | 105 | Fire emergencies |
Basic Hungarian Words for Survival:
ENGLISH | HUNGARIAN |
|---|---|
Hello | Szia (SEE-yah) |
Goodbye | Viszlát (VEES-laat) |
Please | Kérem (KEH-rem) |
Thank you | Köszönöm (KUH-suh-nuhm) |
Yes | Igen (EE-gehn) |
No | Nem (nehm) |
Sorry / Excuse me | Elnézést (EHL-nay-zaysht) |
Do you speak English? | Beszél angolul? (BEH-sale AHN-go-lool) |
important contact information
Be sure to save these numbers in your phone in case you need them!
24/7 Hop Emergency Number
+1 (256) HOP-CARE (467-2273)
Remember:
We recommend purchasing an eSIM or SIM card through a local phone carrier in order to contact your loved ones abroad, and your new friends locally.
If you have an extra smart phone available, you could use this as your abroad phone with the new SIM card.
112 is the local emergency services number in Hungary and European Union; the equivalent of 911 in the U.S.
budget & finances
Cost of Living Estimates: Designing a personal budget you’re comfortable with prior to your arrival will be helpful in guiding you on how you’d like to spend leisure and social time during the program. Please review the table below for our recommendations!
EXPENDITURES | ESTIMATE BUDGET RECOMMENDATION (USD) |
|---|---|
Food (groceries & eating out) | $1,000–$1,300 |
Personal leisure spending (social activities, etc.) | $900 |
Local transportation (buses) | $250 |
Travel (regional & nearby European trips) | $600 |
Please be reminded these are estimates that are heavily influenced by personal behavior. Depending on the funds available to you or your preferences, you could reasonably spend far less or much more on each expense. If your program includes a meal plan, you can expect to spend less on food and groceries.
Banking: Opening a local bank account in Hungary is optional but can be helpful, especially for students staying longer than one semester or those planning to work or receive funds locally. To open a Hungarian bank account, you will typically need your passport, proof of address in Hungary, and your Residence Permit. Some banks may also request proof of student enrollment. Having a local bank account allows you to avoid international transaction fees and ATM withdrawal fees, and it makes managing day-to-day expenses easier. Several Hungarian banks offer low-fee or student-friendly accounts, particularly for students enrolled at Hungarian universities. That said, many students successfully rely solely on their U.S. bank accounts and credit cards during their time in Hungary.
Credit Card Usage: Major credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted throughout Hungary, especially in cities like Pécs and Budapest. American Express is accepted less frequently. Be aware that many U.S. credit card companies charge a 2–3% foreign transaction fee, though some cards waive this fee entirely. We recommend checking your card’s specific terms before departure. Be sure to notify your credit card company of your international travel plans to avoid any fraud alerts or declined transactions.
Local Currency: Hungary uses the Hungarian Forint (HUF), not the Euro. While some tourist-oriented businesses may accept euros, you will almost always get a better rate paying in forints. Prices in Hungary typically include VAT (sales tax), and electronic payment methods are widely used. Cash is still common in smaller shops, markets, and cafés, so it’s helpful to carry a small amount of cash, but we strongly advise against traveling with large sums for safety reasons.
Exchanging Funds: You may exchange U.S. dollars for Hungarian forints at airport exchange counters or local exchange offices, though rates at airports are often less favorable. Using ATMs in Hungary to withdraw forints directly is usually the most cost-effective option, provided your bank’s ATM fees are reasonable. Money transfer services such as Wise (formerly TransferWise) are also popular among students and generally offer strong exchange rates and low fees. The exchange rate fluctuates, but on average $1 USD ≈ 350–380 HUF.
Emergency Funds: We advise having a plan in place for accessing money in the event of an emergency or unexpected disruption. You could bring a second credit card that is meant to be used only for this purpose, but otherwise locked away in your housing. Or, ensuring you have access to two separate bank accounts may be most preferred. However it may work best with your family and individual circumstances would be sufficient. Should you lose access to your funds and need emergency assistance, please contact your Hop Go-To or Global Guide.
Working Rights: International students in Hungary may work, but there are limits and requirements. Students holding a valid Residence Permit for study purposes are generally allowed to work up to 30 hours per week during the academic term, and up to 90 days full-time per year during official breaks. Part-time jobs in hospitality, retail, tutoring, or service industries are the most common. Availability varies by city and language skills—positions requiring Hungarian language ability may be more limited. If you’re interested in working, start exploring opportunities after arrival and check with your host university’s career services. Your Hop Go-To can also provide guidance and local recommendations.
Remember:
Prepare a personal spending budget you and your loved ones are comfortable with prior to arrival.
Consider the logistics of how you may prefer to spend money, via a local bank account, ATM withdrawals, credit cards, etc.
Have a secondary way of accessing funds in the event of an emergency.
Contact your local bank & credit card companies to tell them you’ll be traveling internationally for an extended period.
Be aware of international transaction fees on your credit cards, and any ATM withdrawals fees associated with making withdrawals or purchases.
packing essentials
Packing Recommendations: It is extremely easy to become overwhelmed when trying to decide what you need on the other side of the world. Almost every student will say in retrospect that they bought too much with them. It is advised to pack no more than what you can carry individually. It’s a long journey overseas and lugging around too much baggage can certainly make the trek more difficult and incur unwanted fees while flying. You are advised to pack as light as possible and for a variety of weather conditions. You’ll be down under for several months and the weather will vary during your time there. Most airlines have a maximum baggage allowance of two checked bags, one carry-on and one personal item and they will have weight limits on these items. Ensure you check the policy with your specific airline before packing.
Packing List: The following list is a suggested packing list for the semester:
Layered clothing for both warm and cool weather
Socks & underwear
Comfortable walking shoes
Swimwear
Sleepwear
Shower shoes
Accessories (hats, jewelry, etc.)
A couple outfits of formal wear
Sunscreen
Toiletaries
Medications
A weekend bag or smaller backpack for short term travel
Bath towel
Camera
Laptop & other personal electronics (Kindle, iPad, etc.)
Two or more electronic adapters
Journal
Remember:
Pack light, leave room for new clothes and souvenirs you’ll purchase.
Review your airlines’ baggage regulations.
Review our suggested packing list while you’re getting ready to depart.
well-come abroad
Host University Orientation: Your host university will hold a formal orientation before classes begin, lasting from just one day to one week. It is strongly encouraged to attend this orientation as it’s a great way to meet more students and you’ll receive useful information about your campus. This information could include helpful facts about academic enrollment assistance, health insurance enrollment, medical facilities, security, university-sponsored trips and activities, and more. You’ll also have the chance to survey what student clubs and organizations you may be interested in joining.
Arrival: Upon arrival into Europe on January 23rd, 2026, you will be greeted by the local Hop orientation team at the airport in Munich (MUC). We will be eagerly awaiting your arrival in the arrivals area for international flights.
You can expect to spend 20-60 minutes in Customs after you deplane. Our team will be monitoring your flight and stay aware of any travel delays; you will not be left behind at the airport as a result of any in-air delays. Once all students have arrived and are accounted for, we will travel as a group to Mayrhofen via bus.
Remember:
The Hop Well-come Orientation will take place in Mayrhofen, Austria from January 23rd to January 26th, 2026.
The Hop team will be eagerly waiting to greet you upon your arrival to the Munich airport (MUC) on Friday, January 23rd, 2026.
We will commute as a group to Mayrhofen after all students have safely landed and been accounted for.
This orientation is designed to focus on mindfulness and provide you with tools to excel personally and academically during your semester.
You are strongly encouraged to attend your host university’s orientation and associated activities/sessions.
Well-come Abroad Itinerary
23 JAN 2026
Well-come to Europe!
Arrive in Munich & Group transfer to Mayrhofen
Check-in & Welcome Dinner
24 JAN 2026
Self-Care
Breakfast at hotel
Wellness session and guided meditation
Guided snowshoe hike
Group dinner
25 JAN 2026
Preparation & Empowerment
Breakfast at hotel
European clean eating workshop
Free spa afternoon
Group dinner
26 JAN 2026
Departure
Breakfast at hotel
Group transfer to Munich
Overnight in Munich
27 JAN 2026
Arrival to Pécs
Breakfast at hotel
Group transfer via Budapest to Pécs