Studying abroad is an opportunity to explore other countries, experience different cultures, and embark on once-in-a-lifetime adventures. But before you go, be sure to tend to all the details at home to ensure a smooth and successful trip. One of those details should be to take care of your current student rental housing; below are a few tips for making certain your home is looked after while you're overseas.

Talk to Your Landlord

Don't embark on a studying abroad experience without first informing your landlord of your plans. If you intend on returning to the property after your travels, arrangements need to be made. Tenants who live in student rentals typically find that their landlords have dealt with this issue before, and they can give you some ideas on the next steps to take.

Many students look into subleasing their units while they're away, but clear this with the landlord beforehand as some properties and leases don't allow subleasing. If you plan to move out completely prior to the trip, give sufficient notice to the landlord, at least 30 days in advance. If you have to break an existing lease, discuss your options with the landlord.

Find a Subletter

A subletter will move into your rental housing, live there while you're gone, and pay rent to the landlord as stipulated in the lease. Once you've gotten the landlord's approval to sublease, start looking for a new tenant right away: advertise on student websites, talk to friends and classmates, and post notices in campus common areas. You only want to find a sublessor when your intention is to return to the student rental once the study-abroad trip has concluded.

Screen Potential Subletters

Once you've found a subletter, screen them thoroughly. Remember: you, as the leaseholder, are ultimately responsible for the rental unit, so you want to find someone trustworthy. Run a credit and background check online; ask for both personal and professional references; and inquire about their past rental history. If these avenues all turn up a strong candidate, sign an agreement between the two of you that states each of your rights and responsibilities.

Knowing your student rental is in good hands will let you enjoy the study-abroad experience that much more. Munson Realty, Inc. offers property management services and apartments for rent, including student rentals, throughout the La Crosse, Wisconsin, area. Call (608) 785-7187, visit their website, or message them on Facebook to explore available properties today.