Make sure everything is ready for your trip with our study abroad packing list
Get ready for your study abroad adventure! Our study abroad packing list covers in 4 simple steps everything you need to prepare for your trip, from documents to clothes and tech gear.
Based on our experience helping over 19,900 students prepare for their programs abroad, the following study abroad packing list covers all the essentials to ensure a smooth start.
1. Important Documents to Study Abroad
Your documents are the most important items on your study abroad packing list. Upon arrival, immigration officers may ask you to show proof of the purpose of your stay, so it’s important to have all the required documents ready.
- Passport – Make sure it’s valid for at least 6 months after your return date.
- Student visa – Visa requirements vary by country, so you may need one for your stay. Visit our study abroad visa page for more details and guidance.
- Letter of acceptance from your host university or program.
- Flight tickets.
- Health insurance – Check if your current plan includes international coverage, or if you’ll need to get a new one. For more information check our study abroad insurance page or reach out to our advisors.
- Vaccination records – Some countries ask for proof of certain vaccines.
- Emergency contact list – Include family, your school’s contact person, and your local embassy.
- Address of destination – When entering the country, you may be required to provide the full address of where you’ll be staying during your study abroad.
Tip: Carry a small folder or travel wallet to keep all your important documents in one place. We also recommend keeping digital copies of your documents stored in your email or iCloud, just in case the originals are lost or misplaced.
2. Health and Medications for Studying Abroad
Taking care of your health while you’re abroad is important. Here are some easy steps to help you get ready.
- Pack your prescription medications – Bring enough for your entire stay or at least a few months and include the prescription notes. Double-check if your medication is allowed in your destination country and inform your doctor about any specific documentation requirements.
- Carry a small first-aid kit with basics like painkillers, plasters, and medicine.
- Bring your vitamins or supplements – Some may be hard to find at your destination. You should also check if there are any restrictions.
Tip: Check your home country’s and your destination country’s health and travel authorities to avoid bringing prohibited or restricted medications.
3. Academic Preparation Essentials before Your Trip
You’re going abroad to study, so make sure you’re ready for classes!
- Bring your school documents – Transcripts, certificates, or anything your host university needs.
- Check tech requirements – Will you need a laptop, tablet, or specific software? Some universities require specific software like Microsoft Office or Adobe Suite, which may be offered free through your host institution. Check their website before purchasing anything.
- The rest of the academic material can be purchased at your destination.
Tip: Learn from students who’ve already done the program. You’ll get useful tips on what to expect!
4. What to Pack for Study Abroad
When packing, it is key to focus on the study abroad essentials. Think about what you’ll really use day-to-day and remember: you can always purchase more things once you arrive.
Clothes
Bring clothes that are comfortable, easy to layer, and fit the weather at your destination. Don’t forget to check the season you’re arriving in.
- Everyday clothes – T-shirts, jeans, hoodies, sweaters, leggings, and anything you wear to class or on weekends.
- Weather-appropriate gear – A warm coat if you’re going somewhere cold, a rain jacket for wet climates, or light clothes for hot countries.
- Shoes – Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Bring one pair for everyday use, one for working out, and maybe one nicer pair for going out.
- Formal or semi-formal outfits – At least one or two nice outfits for special events, dinners, or presentations.
- Sleepwear and underwear – Pack enough for at least a week to avoid doing laundry constantly.
- Swimwear and workout clothes – If you plan to hit the beach or gym.
- Accessories – Hats, sunglasses, or jewelry you usually wear.
Tip: In our experience, students often overpack. Try to pack clothes that mix and match well, so you can create different outfits without overpacking. Also, think about laundry-safe clothes, those that you won’t cry over if they get ruined in the washing machine.
Toiletries
Only pack the essential toiletries. There’s no need to bring a full year supply of shampoo, just pack the basics to get you through the first few days and buy the rest once you arrive. This will save space in your suitcase and make packing a lot easier.
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, body wash, perfume, razor, and any skincare products or make-up you use regularly.
- Nail clippers, tweezers, and other small grooming items.
- Basic painkillers and medicine.
- Use a toiletry bag that’s easy to grab when you’re heading to a shared bathroom.
Tip: Many countries follow the same international aviation security rules for carry-on liquids. Containers must generally be 100 ml (3.4 ounces) or less, and all containers should fit in a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag (usually up to 1 liter). Larger containers or extra liquids should go in checked baggage.
For example, the EU follows these rules: EU hand luggage restrictions. Similar regulations apply in most other countries, including the U.S. (TSA).
Tip: Before packing, look up which toiletries are hard to find at your destination and prioritize those.
Tech Gear
- Laptop and charger – Essential for schoolwork.
- Phone and power bank – Don’t forget your charger and a portable battery for travel days.
- Headphones or earbuds – Great for flights, study sessions, or tuning out noise.
- Power adapter and/or converter – Check the plug type and voltage in your destination country.
- USB stick or external hard drive – For backing up important files.
Tip: Make sure your laptop and phone are unlocked and ready for international use.
Other Helpful Items for Packing
- A suitcase and a backpack – Bring a large suitcase for your main belongings and a backpack for everyday use and weekend trips. When packing, make sure to place a few essentials—like a change of clothes, toiletries, and important documents—in your carry-on. That way, if your checked bag gets delayed or lost, you’ll still have what you need for the first few days.
- Reusable water bottle – Saves money and is better for the environment.
Ready to Study Abroad?
The more you prepare, the smoother your journey will be. Follow this study abroad packing list to stay organized.
- Bring all required documents both in physical and digital form.
- Pack enough prescription meds, a basic first-aid kit and supplements with proper documentation.
- Bring necessary university documents and tech gear.
- Focus on versatile clothes for the climate, essential toiletries, important tech devices, and smart luggage choices to travel light.
If you’re still planning your study abroad experience, Beyond Abroad is here to help you find the right study program, guide you through the application process, and answer all your questions.
With Beyond Abroad, studying abroad has never been easier. Apply now and explore the world as a student!