🌍 Packing Tips from Students Around the World
Not sure what to pack for studying abroad? We asked international students to share their top packing tips, so you don’t overpack or forget the essentials.
✈️ Real Advice from Real Students, Because They've Been There
Packing for college abroad is exciting... and overwhelming. Whether you're coming to the U.S. from France, Brazil, India, Japan, or anywhere else, there’s a lot to consider: climate, dorm size, customs rules, and emotional comfort.
Instead of guessing what to bring, we asked international students around the world:
“What’s one thing you’re glad you packed, and one thing you wish you had?”
Here are their best packing tips: so you can avoid common mistakes and arrive feeling confident, not stressed.
🧳 1. “Don’t bring too many clothes.”
— Sarah, France
“I packed like I was going on a fashion tour: big mistake! I wore the same comfy basics 80% of the time. Bring what you actually wear at home.”
Pro Tip:
Bring layers that you can mix and match. U.S. campuses often have casual dress codes, and you’ll likely end up buying new clothes once you arrive.
🍜 2. “Pack your favorite snacks .”
— Rohan, India
“I miss home-cooked food. The first week was tough, so I was happy I had my chips and instant chai mix. Just check customs regulations first.”
Pro Tip:
Pack a few non-perishable, sealed snacks that are allowed through customs. They can make a huge emotional difference in your first few weeks.
📷 3. “Photos make your room feel like home.”
— Aya, Japan
“I brought a small photo album. Looking at pictures of my family and dog helped me not feel so lonely at night.”
Pro Tip:
Print 5–10 small photos of family, friends, or places you love. Lightweight and meaningful, they instantly make a dorm room feel more personal.
🛏️ 4. “Order bedding ahead or rent it!”
— Felipe, Brazil
“I brought sheets from home, but they didn’t fit the American Twin XL bed. I had to buy new ones after landing. Total hassle.”
Pro Tip:
Most U.S. dorm beds are Twin XL, a size uncommon outside the U.S. Rent or pre-order a bedding kit to have it waiting at your dorm.
👉 Check out our essentials kit here →
💊 5. “Bring basic medicine and prescriptions.”
— Linh, Vietnam
“I couldn’t find the cold medicine I’m used to in the U.S. I wish I had brought some basics like painkillers or meds from home.”
Pro Tip:
Pack travel-sized versions of medicine you commonly use, and carry your prescription in its original packaging with a doctor’s note if needed.
🔌 6. “Don’t forget the power adapters.”
— Tomas, Spain
“I had my laptop, phone, and camera, but no way to charge them because I forgot an adapter! U.S. plugs are different.”
Pro Tip:
Bring 2–3 universal plug adapters (Type A/B for U.S.). Voltage is also different, so check that your electronics are compatible with 110V.
🎁 7. “A small gift for your roommate goes a long way.”
— Amina, Morocco
“I gave my roommate a keychain and some date cookies. She loved it! It helped us bond.”
Pro Tip:
Pack a small souvenir from your country, like snacks, magnets, postcards, or something cultural. It's a great conversation starter. If you want more ideas on what to bring, check out our article here.
📝 Quick List: What Students Recommend You Pack
✅ Lightweight, comfortable clothes for all seasons
✅ Favorite snacks and small food items (customs-friendly)
✅ Prescription meds and basic first aid items
✅ Power adapters and chargers
✅ Photos, posters, or decor from home
✅ Personal hygiene products you're used to
✅ A small gift or souvenir for your roommate
💼 What Not to Pack
🚫 Too many formal outfits
🚫 Full-size toiletries (buy in the U.S.)
🚫 Large kitchenware or appliances
🚫 Bulky winter gear (unless you're going straight to a cold region — buy there instead!)
🚫 Bedding from home because they won’t fit (Instead, buy it here)
🌟 Final Advice from Students Around the World
“Pack what makes you feel like yourself.”
“Don’t bring your entire closet.”
“Leave space in your suitcase: you’ll bring things back.”
“You don’t need everything. You need enough to feel okay at first.”
Ready to Pack Less and Stress Less?
Our International Student Essentials Kit helps you move in with ease. Bedding, towels, and the basics, shipped directly to your school or your apartment, so you can focus on adjusting and making memories.
