The Ultimate Packing Checklist for Studying Internationally

Forgetting your charger is one thing… forgetting your passport is another.

So, you’ve gotten your acceptance letter, your visa is (finally) approved, and you’re counting down the days until takeoff. Exciting, right? But then comes the big question: How on earth do I pack for studying abroad?

Whether you’re moving to the U.S. or another corner of the world, this checklist will help you pack smart, travel light, and avoid last-minute chaos.

Essentials You Can’t Forget

Let’s start with the non-negotiables, the things you must bring.

• Passport & Visa: Obvious, but double-check they’re valid for the duration of your stay.
• I-20 or other admission documents: You’ll need these for immigration and school registration.
• Flight ticket & travel itinerary: Print a copy in case your phone dies.
• Vaccination records & medical documents: Some schools require proof of certain vaccines.
• School acceptance letter: Immigration officers might ask for this at entry.
• Emergency contact list: Include local contacts and your school’s international office.

Pro tip: Keep these in your carry-on, not your checked luggage.

Clothes: Pack for Comfort and Versatility

This can vary widely depending on where you’re headed.

• Weather-appropriate outfits: Check your destination’s seasonal temps. Moving to California is very different from Minnesota!
• Comfortable shoes: You’ll walk more than you think—on campus, in cities, and possibly during travels.
• One formal outfit: For presentations, networking events, or unexpected invites.
• Traditional/cultural clothing (optional): Great for cultural nights or feeling close to home.
• Rain jacket or umbrella: Especially if you’re heading somewhere like Seattle.

Less is more. You can always buy things once you arrive. Plus, you’ll probably want to fit in some local fashion, too.

Electronics & Tech

Everything you need for study, work, and entertainment.

• Laptop & charger (bonus: install software you need ahead of time)
• Phone + charger
• Universal power adapter: U.S. plugs might not match your home country.
• Portable power bank
• Headphones: Noise-canceling ones are a lifesaver on flights and in shared spaces.

USB drive or external hard drive (just in case)

The U.S. uses 110V, so make sure your electronics are compatible or get a converter.

🛏️ Dorm & Living Essentials

Some items are easier (and cheaper) to buy after arrival, but here are a few worth bringing:

• Towel & basic toiletries: For your first few days before you find a store.
• Bedsheets (Twin XL for U.S. dorms!): Some schools don’t provide them.
• Small laundry bag
• A few personal decorations or photos: Make your new space feel like home.

Ask your school if they offer a dorm essentials kit for new students. It might save you a shopping trip.

Health & Safety

Just in case.

• Prescription medications (with copies of prescriptions)
• Over-the-counter medicine you regularly use
• First-aid basics: Band-aids, pain relievers, etc.
• Health insurance documents

Check if your medicine is legal in your host country, it’s not always the same worldwide.

Money Matters

• Some local currency: For taxis, tips, or vending machines at the airport.
• Credit/debit card: One with no foreign transaction fees if possible.
• Student ID (from your home school, if applicable): Sometimes gets you discounts.

Notify your bank you’re going abroad so your card doesn’t get frozen.

Comfort & Sentimental Items

Small things can make a big difference on tough days.

• Snacks from home: Bring your favorites for those homesick days.
• Photos of family and friends
• A small memento or keepsake
• Books in your native language (or loaded on an e-reader)

Just don’t overpack. Remember, you’ll accumulate things as you go.

Final Tips 

Do a test pack a week early, to see what fits and what doesn’t.

• Check airline baggage limits (and don’t forget carry-on rules for liquids).
• Pack important documents in a folder that’s easy to access.
• Leave room in your suitcase. Seriously. You will buy stuff.

Ready for Takeoff?

Studying internationally is a huge adventure. It’s nerve-wracking, exciting, and totally life-changing all at once. Packing well helps you land on the right foot, so you can focus on meeting new friends, trying new things, and making lifelong memories.

Want help finding housing once you land? Check out Homebase for easy, student-friendly rental options tailored for international students like you.