Study Abroad Packing & Travel Checklist for International Students

Getting ready for a new phase in your life, especially when it means studying in a different country, requires careful planning and attention to detail. As an Indian student getting ready for this adventure, it's important to understand how important it is to create a packing list that suits your needs. Even though it might be tempting to bring a lot of things with you, remember that traveling with less stuff can make your move easier and less complicated.

IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS 

To ensure a smooth and stress-free time abroad, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the required documents for your move overseas and for the specific destination you are traveling to. If you're planning to pursue your studies abroad, it's highly likely that you'll need to bring your passport along. While your passport is undoubtedly the most crucial identification document for your trip, it's essential to remember that there are other important documents you need to bring when considering what to pack for your study abroad experience.

A few important documents include: 

1. Passport & Visa (with duplicates) 
2. Acceptance letter
3. Enrollment letter
4. Identity card 
5. Tickets for the flight
6. Printed and digital versions of payment slips and fee receipts
7. Original and printout copies of academic degrees
8. Rental agreement (if you have already secured accommodation) or other documents indicating your place of stay
9. Bank statements, salary slips, and other proof of financial capability to sustain yourself during the program
10. Certificate of scholarship (if you have been granted one)
11. Duplicates of medical reports and medical history
12. Certificates confirming completion of necessary vaccinations
13. Identification card indicating blood group (optional but recommended)
14. Health insurance documents
15. Residence permit (with duplicates)
16. Certificate of medical fitness
17. Travel insurance
18. Driver's license 

CLOTHING 

Clothing can be one of the most challenging aspects to consider when relocating abroad for higher studies, primarily due to the unfamiliarity with the weather conditions in the destination country. Moving to a different country often means encountering diverse climates and seasonal variations that may differ significantly from one's home country. This unfamiliarity can make it difficult to determine the appropriate clothing to pack. It becomes essential to research and understand the weather patterns of the new location to ensure that you are well-prepared with suitable attire.

We’ve compiled a list of essentials to help your job a little easier: 

• Denim pants - It is recommended to pack a few pairs of jeans as they are versatile and suitable for various occasions. Keep in mind that well-known brands like Levi's can be quite expensive when purchasing them abroad.
• Sweatshirt/Jumpers - Bring along a couple of hoodies or sweaters to stay comfortable and cozy in colder weather or indoor environments with strong air conditioning.
• Sleepwear - Pack no more than two pairs of pajamas to ensure a good night's sleep without taking up too much space in your luggage.
• Socks/undergarments - Make sure to pack an adequate supply of socks and underwear to last you for at least two weeks, considering laundry or washing options at your destination.
• Swimming attire - Don't forget to include a swimsuit, especially if you anticipate opportunities to enjoy beaches, pools, or water activities during your stay.
• Workout attire - It is advisable to have at least one set of workout clothes to stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Choose comfortable and breathable materials that suit your exercise preferences.
• Lightweight jacket - Opt for a light jacket with water-resistant properties, as it can be handy for unexpected rain showers or chilly evenings while exploring your new surroundings.
• Elegant clothing - Pack a few sets of dress pants and nice tops that can be mixed and matched for formal or semi-formal occasions. This allows you to maintain a polished appearance when attending events or social gatherings.
• Accessories - Bring along a few accessories such as jewelry, belts, or scarves to add style and flair to your outfits. However, it's important not to overdo it and choose items that can easily complement different ensembles.
• Scarves - Including a few scarves in your luggage can be useful for adding warmth or adding a touch of fashion to your outfits. They are versatile accessories that can enhance your overall look.
• Flip flops - It is recommended to pack a single pair of flip flops, which can be convenient for showering in hostels or wearing in casual settings where comfort and ease of use are prioritized.
• Walking shoes - Invest in a pair of comfortable and fashionable walking shoes, as walking tends to be a major part of everyday life while studying abroad. Look for footwear that provides adequate support and suits your personal style.
• Handbag - Limit yourself to carrying a maximum of two purses or handbags, ensuring they are versatile and suitable for different occasions. This helps you stay organized while adding a touch of style to your outfits.

Some ground rules to keep in mind while packing:

1. Take into account the time of year and weather conditions
2. Include lightweight garments in your luggage
3. Bring clothes that can be easily combined and matched
4. Think about the availability of laundry facilities during your trip
5. Aim to prioritize comfort rather than solely focusing on fashion
   

ESSENTIAL TOILETRIES

Finding your favourite toiletries can be a challenging task when you relocate to a foreign country to pursue higher studies. Suddenly, the familiar brands and products you relied on may not be readily available, and you may find yourself navigating unfamiliar stores and aisles in search of suitable replacements.

Here’s the list of general toiletries you are advised to take:

1. Toothbrush 
2. Hairbrush/comb
3. Cosmetics
4. Sunscreen
5. Shaving blades
6. Travel tissues
7. Antiperspirant
8. Sanitizing gel
   

MISCELLANEOUS

When embarking on your journey to pursue higher education in a foreign country as an Indian student, there are several additional miscellaneous items that can prove to be invaluable.  By considering and preparing these miscellaneous items, you can ensure a smoother transition and make the most of your educational experience abroad. 

Here’s the list of miscellaneous items you’d need:   

1. Prescriptions: Make sure to bring an adequate supply for the duration of your stay. If your stay exceeds three months, you'll need to consult a doctor abroad to get new prescriptions. Discuss this with your doctor before you depart, as prescriptions cannot be transferred.
2. Student ID: Bring your student identity card to avail of discounted admissions.
3. Backpack: A large bag to carry your belongings.
4. Glasses/contact lenses: Don't forget to bring extra pairs of glasses or contact lenses.
5. Pens, pencils, notebooks: Stationery items for writing and note-taking.
6. Flash drive: A portable storage device for transferring and storing files.
7. Pillowcase: Useful if you're staying in hostels.
8. Sleeping Bag: A compact sheet bag that's particularly useful in hostels.
9. Folding umbrella: An umbrella that can be easily folded for convenience.
10. Water bottle: It's challenging to find water bottles in Europe, and remember that aluminum bottles are not allowed on planes.
11. Lunchbox: Optional items, as they can be difficult to find abroad.
12. Books: Bring a book for entertainment during your trip.
13. Washcloths: Small towels for personal hygiene.
14. Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the sun by bringing a pair of sunglasses.
15. Journal: Record your experiences and memories in a journal.
16. Watch: A timepiece to keep track of time during your travels.
17. A basic First- Aid kit: bandages of different sizes, wound dressings, antibacterial wipes, cotton swabs and wool, medical tape, tweezers, as well as over-the-counter medications like pain relievers, antibiotics, antihistamines, and anti-diarrheal tablets.
18. Local Currency: The currency used in the specific region or country you are visiting.
19. Power Adapters & Converters: Devices used to adapt and convert the electrical outlets and voltage to match the requirements of the country you are in.