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Packing Tips
1 People
in other countries don't have as many changes of clothing as we
typically do, even in Europe and Australia.
2 Be
aware of the differences in climate and weather in your host
country and pack accordingly.
3 We
advise that you DO NOT pack any electrical appliances, including
laptop computers. However, if you insist on doing this, make
sure to have a converter and adapter for electrical appliances,
as these are different in each country. Do not use an American
appliance without the proper support systems because this will
cause serious damage to the appliance, to the electrical wiring
in your building, and or to you. It is usually easier to
purchase small appliances, such as a hairdryer, in the host
country rather than to buy a converter and transport it with the
appliance to the host country.
4 Be
prepared for bags to be searched in each country you travel
through. Baggage checks are random, so you never know.
5 Pack
a small carry-on bag that can fit under your airplane seat with a
change of clothes and overnight essentials in case your luggage
gets lost for a couple of days. The acceptable dimensions for
carry-on luggage are usually 8 in. x 12 in. x 25 in. Make sure
you call your airline if your carry-on bag does not meet these
dimensions.
6 For
checked luggage, there are dimension and weight requirements for
international flights. Check with your airline if you have
concerns about luggage size, and also bear in mind that you can
usually only check two bags, depending on your airline.
7 Leave
room for items you'll be bringing back home! Don't take your
most prized possessions with you, nor you entire CD
collection. They should be waiting for you when you return.
8 Take
extra passport size photos. You may need them at your university
or for public transportation passes.
9 Consider
purchasing an
International
Student Identification Card (ISIC) which can be purchased at
VT's Cranwell International Center. Students with this card
often receive significant student discounts when traveling.
Packing List
Passport,
visa, and photocopy of both
Proof
of insurance including cards and telephone numbers
Extra passport size photos
Credit
card, debit card, host country currency, and/or traveler's checks
for when you arrive
Clothing appropriate for the climate of your country, winterwear,
lightweight items, etc
If
you must bring appliances, bring an electric converter
Contact
lens cleaning solution and a spare pair of glasses
Feminine
products
One
or two towels
Flashlight
Travel
alarm clock
Film
and batteries
Music,
some books, cookbooks
Photographs
of life here
Mini
health kit
Prescription
drugs, clearly labeled with scientific name, plus a doctor's
note. If you use contraceptives, take a supply which will cover
your time abroad. You may not be able to find your particular
kind abroad if you run out.
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