Information on packing and luggage:

FlyLite.com: A guide and link to the latest data on airline baggage allowances. This directory is regularly updated. Please check your airlines restrictions on size, weight and number of bags allowed, as well as fees charged for checked bags and oversize/weight items! Students are responsible for any fees.

OneBag.com: a site that promotes the “art and science” of travelling light

Packing Tips:

  1. The most important advice is:  DO NOT OVER PACK! Lugging huge, heavy bags through airports, train stations, metros and city streets is exhausting, inconvenient and embarrassing, and can even cost you a lot of money if you have to pay airline surcharges or hire a taxi every time you need to move your luggage.
  2. Consult the web page of the specific airline you will be using in order to determine the size and weight limitations for luggage on international flights (which can be different from the limitations for domestic flights), as well as for the number of checked and carry-on bags they allow.  If you exceed these limits, you will have to pay a substantial surcharge.
  3. Pack in two smaller suitcases rather than a single large one, and divide your clothing and other essentials equally among them so that if one bag gets lost, you will still (hopefully) have your second one when you arrive.
  4. Make sure you have clear identification on both the outside (luggage tag) and inside of each bag you take. A distinctive marker on the outside of your bag (a large sticker, colorful strap, etc.) will help you identify it easily while traveling.
  5. Make sure to carry the following in a secure carry-on bag:
    • Your passport
    • Your medical insurance card
    • Any prescription medication you require, in its original container with the pharmacy label clearly stating your name and the prescribing doctor’s name. Take enough for your entire time abroad. It is also advisable to take an official letter from your physician describing the medicine, its dosage, the drug’s generic name and the condition being treated.
    • Extra eyeglasses or contact lenses
    • Valuable items (electronic equipment, jewelry, etc)
    • A change of clothes
    • Arrival instructions and contact information for your program
  6. Pack a copy of your passport (picture / personal information page, and visa) in each of your checked bags and in your carry-on
  7. Do not over pack items that you can purchase abroad: toiletries, batteries, film (does anyone still use film?), notebooks, office supplies, sunscreen, etc.
  8. If taking electronic equipment, make sure you have the required adapters (to fit the local outlets) and/or voltage converters.
  9. Clothing: Take into consideration the climate of where you are going, as well as the typical standard of dress – students who have been on your program before can help you with this information. Know that most students pack far too much – remember that you may buy clothes while abroad.  Take clothes that you can layer, and if you plan to do a lot of traveling, take durable, drip-dry, no-iron clothes. Definitely take comfortable walking shoes.
  10. Miscellaneous items you might want to take: travel alarm clock, sunglasses, umbrella, small backpack for school books or short trips (could serve as your carry-on, too), money belt, guide book for your country or city. If you plan on traveling independently and staying in hostels, a travel sheet (a lightweight silk or nylon bag) and a lightweight travel towel are good investments.