When making your travel plans to study abroad at the TALK English Schools you may wonder what is essential that you pack before you leave.  First-time international students need to give this a lot of thought as you do not want to bring items which are unnecessary and just add to your luggage weight and bulk.  On the other hand there are things you would do well to bring: here is a study abroad packing list that we suggest you refer to when preparing and packing for your travels and adventure abroad.

What to Pack for Study Abroad

Clothing

Clothing – and the right kind of clothing – is the most important part of your packing list.  These are essentials for our TALK students to pack.

• Underwear (two weeks’ worth)
• Thermal underwear
• Undershirts
• Short sleeve shirts
• Long sleeve shirts
• Socks (two weeks’ worth)
• Jeans/Khakis (2-3 pairs)
• Sweaters
• Skirts (for the girls)
• Sweatshirt/ hoodie (2-3)
• A belt or two
• Shorts
• Workout clothes (1 or 2 sets)
• Pyjamas
• Swimsuit for students travelling to warmer climates
• 2 Coat/Jackets – 1 waterproof and 1 for cold weather
• Formal occasions outfit
• Flip flops/sandals
• Rain boots/sneakers/dress shoes/boots
• Cold weather gear (i.e. scarf, gloves/mittens, hat)

Toiletries

Here are some toiletries you may need to take with you on your journey:

• Small Shampoo/Conditioner
• TSA Compliant Toiletry Kit
• Small Deodorant
• Soap
• Toothbrush/toothpaste
• Feminine Products (tampons/pads – 2 month’s supply)
• Contact lenses and solution
• Contraceptives
• Over-the-counter medicines
• Brush/Comb
• Razors/Shaving supplies
• Makeup
• Nail clippers
• Tissues/toilet paper in case a bathroom doesn’t have any

Extras

These are some of the non-clothing/toiletries essentials you must take with you when studying abroad:

• $300 in local currency
• Important documents (visa, passport, plane tickets, itinerary, ISIC card, etc.)
• Purse/wallet
• Passport/document holder
• Cell phone
• Outlet adapter suitable for working in the host country
• Camera w/cords and charger
• Laptop and charger
• Enough prescription drugs for the length of your stay (Proper documentation will be needed for travel purposes)
• MP3 Player/iPod
• Sleep sack/sleeping bag for unexpected flight delays if you are making connections en route, or just for emergencies
• Journal/diary
• Backpack
• Travel water bottle