1. Essentials
- Passport and Visa: Keep multiple copies.
- I-20 Form/DS-2019: Provided by your university or sponsor.
- Admission Letter: Confirmation from the university.
- Flight Tickets: Hard and soft copies.
- Travel Insurance: Covers health and emergencies.
- Currency: Sufficient cash in USD (around $200-300) and an international debit/credit card.
- Vaccination and Medical Records: Required by most universities.
- Prescriptions: For any medications, including glasses or contact lenses.
2. Electronics
- Laptop and Accessories: Charger, mouse, keyboard, etc.
- Smartphone: With an international roaming plan or unlocked for a US SIM.
- Universal Adapter and Voltage Converter: US uses 110V/60Hz.
- External Hard Drive/USB Drive: For backups and data transfer.
- Power Bank: For charging on the go. (Keep it in the hand bag)
- Headphones/Earbuds: Noise-cancelling preferred.
3. Clothing
- Seasonal Clothing:
- Light clothing for summer.
- Warm clothes for winter: heavy jacket, thermals, gloves, scarf, woolen hat.
- Formal Wear: For presentations, interviews, or events.
- Casual Wear: Daily wear, jeans, t-shirts, etc.
- Traditional Attire: For cultural events or celebrations.
- Shoes:
- Comfortable walking shoes.
- Formal shoes.
- Flip-flops/sandals for dorm use.
- Undergarments and Socks: At least 10-15 pairs.
- Rain Gear: Umbrella and waterproof jacket.
4. Toiletries
- Basic Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, razor, soap, shampoo, conditioner.
- Towels: At least two.
- Nail Cutter
- Sunscreen and Moisturizer: For different weather conditions.
- Feminine Hygiene Products (if applicable).
5. Study Supplies
- Notebooks and Pens: Initial supply; can be bought locally.
- Backpack: For daily use.
- Reference Books: Specific ones not available in the US.
6. Kitchen Items
- Spices and Ingredients: Small quantities of your preferred spices (well-labeled).
- Basic Utensils:
- Plate, bowl, glass, and cutlery.
- Small non-stick pan, tongs, and spatula.
- Instant Food Items: Maggi, ready-to-eat packets.
- Pressure Cooker: Compact and lightweight, if essential.
7. Health and Emergency Kit
- Basic Medicines: For cold, fever, allergies, etc.
- First Aid Kit: Band-aids, antiseptic, etc.
8. Miscellaneous
- Bedding: Bedsheet, pillowcase, and a light blanket (can buy heavy ones locally).
- Locks: TSA-approved for luggage.
- Documents:
- Copies of all certificates and transcripts.
- Copy of rental agreements (if applicable).
- Small Gifts: For roommates or host families (optional).
- Reusable Water Bottle: Eco-friendly and essential.
9. Prohibited or Unnecessary Items
- Avoid carrying large quantities of food items or prohibited items like seeds and dairy.
- Do not carry sharp objects in your cabin baggage.
Tips
- Check the airline baggage policy to avoid excess fees.
- Use vacuum bags to save space.
- Label your luggage with your name and contact details.