If you are reading this article, then you must be one of the many students who are preparing their way to study in the United States of America. If you are genuinely concerned about what you should pack when you go abroad – don’t fret! We have prepared the ultimate packing guide for you. So, get your suitcases ready and read on!
Basic Essential Clothes
The first thing that you should fit in your briefcase is clothes. Obviously, when it comes to the US, the clothes you carry depend on the place you are travelling to. The overall climate in the US is temperate, but of course with notable exceptions like Alaska which has an Arctic tundra climate and Hawaii and South Florida which has a tropical climate. The Great Plains are mostly dry, flat and grassy. So, it is essential to change your wardrobe according to the climatic conditions of the place you are going to.
But some of the common items you need to take with you are:
- T-shirts
- Jeans
- Formal shirts and trousers
- Undergarments
- Formal suit
- Ties
- Shorts
- Track pants
- Jacket
- Shoes/Sandals
- Pyjamas
Essential electronics
Of course, it wouldn’t be an understatement to say that none of our existence will be able to function without the presence of electronics (sadly!). One of the best things about studying in the USA is the access to cutting-edge technology, so if you are a tech buff- prepare to be amazed! Although, buying one wouldn’t be such a cheap affair, especially in the US. So, it is essential you pack some basic electronic items until you become financially independent.
Laptop: In this day and age, you would most definitely need a laptop for your work and studies. In this pandemic age, you might have to attend classes remotely for which you would need a laptop. It is also easier for you to take down lecture notes if you have a laptop with you.
Pen drive: It is always safe to carry a pen drive with you wherever you go. In case if you need to download any study material from official or online resources provided by your university or college.
Travel adaptor: There are two different types of plugs used in the US. One which has two flat parallel pins and another which has a grounding pin with two flat parallel pins. Some of you might be using different plug-ins, which means it’s important for you to carry a travel adaptor that simply allows you to plug into any electrical appliances.
Other basic things you might want to carry with you are a scientific calculator, a decent wristwatch, a digital camera (if you have a photographer in you!) and a good pair of headphones with mic. Also, please don’t forget your phone charger!
Personal Care Products
Personal hygiene is very important especially when you are travelling. In this pandemic age, it is essential to carry products that cater to your health as well as your hygiene. The most important things you need to carry with you are
- Toothpaste
- Brushes
- Soap
- Shampoo
- Shaving razors
- Trimmers
- Combs
- Deodorant
- Moisturizers
- Sunscreens
- Make-up bag
First Aid Kit
You cannot predict when you would face an emergency. It is always safe to carry a first aid kit with medications for your travel abroad. Make sure it includes
- Bandages
- Gauze
- Medical tape
- Disinfectant
- Adhesive bandages
- Thermometer
- Motion sickness medication
- Anti-diarrheal medication
- Aloe gel or afterburn for sunburn
Kitchen essentials
It doesn’t matter if you don’t know how to cook, you would still need some essential cooking items. There is a limit to the number of times you are going to order in. Plus, it is very expensive to order or eat food from restaurants. So, if you don’t know how to cook, you might as well start watching YouTube videos to start prepping yourself to be an adult who eats healthy.
But there are some basic items you need to carry with you when you go to the US
Carry on
This is one of the most important parts of your packing. The carry-on bag is an essential part in your travel to the US. Your tech items and your documents and other extra apparels all go in the carry on bag. Here is a checklist you need to carry in your carry-on!
DOCUMENTS
- Passport/visa(s)
- Personal ID/Student ID card
- Cash and credit card
- Health insurance cards/document(s)
- Reservations and itineraries (print them and save them electronically for easy access)
- Transportation tickets (plane, train, bus, car, etc.)
- Emergency contacts and important addresses
- Copies of all these things in case you lose your wallet
TECHNOLOGY
- Mobile device and charger
- Laptop, iPad, or E-reader and charger(s)
- Headphones
- Electrical converters and adapters
- Camera and GoPro/video camera, memory card, and chargers
TRAVEL COMFORT
- Travel pillow, blanket, eye mask, and ear plugs
- Travel journal and pen (it’s awful when you forget your pen!)
- Books and magazines
- Chapstick and lotion
- Water bottle
