Packing for a 2-6 week stay can be difficult, especially with many airlines’ strict baggage requirements. You may be asking yourself: how can I possibly fit that much clothing into a single suitcase?
In general, it is a good idea to bring enough clothes to last 1-2 weeks. This way, you will not have to worry about packing a new outfit for each day. If you follow the AFS-USA packing recommendations, you will be able to avoid many stressful situations.
Clothing
- Find out what clothing is appropriate in your host country.
- Clothes worn in the U.S. are not always culturally appropriate everywhere else.
- Avoid wearing revealing, sleeveless tops or ripped and faded clothes upon arrival; more conservative clothing will likely make a better first impression.
- Laundry
- Some places may run laundry more than in the U.S. and some less; where water is expensive and scarce, clothing may be worn several times before washing.
- Bring items that are easy to care for and can be mixed and matched.
- You may be expected to wash your delicate clothes by hand.
- Climate - research typical climate and seasonal changes in your host country and pack accordingly.
- Do bring one set of climate-appropriate clothing for more formal events.
- Be economical when packing shoes, which take up a lot of space and can be heavy.
Check your program specific information for a packing list specific to the activities your will participate in while on program.
Two weeks’ worth of lightweight clothing: You will be participating in various activities - both indoors and outdoors - so we suggest bringing the appropriate clothing below.
- Tops (6-10)
- Both casual and athletic shirts
- Bottoms (4-6)
- Shorts and Pants - made of lightweight fabric (linen/cotton); avoid bulky or heavy fabrics.
- Light fleece, jacket, or sweater (2); Raincoat (1)
- For cool evening and air conditioned spaces; for possible rain showers
- Pajamas (2)
- 1 bathing suit for pool
Shoes
The program will involve a significant amount of walking. So, remember to bring shoes that are broken in and comfortable for you! We recommend bringing the following shoes:
- 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing “closed toe” is required.
- 1 pair of water shoes, such as flip-flops or crocs (for shower and/or pool)
- And don’t forget to bring socks!
What clothing is appropriate?
While we encourage you to bring clothing you feel most comfortable and confident in, please try to avoid bringing inappropriate clothing, such as shirts/pants that are:
- Messy or stained
- See-through
- Very cropped or very short
- Have explicit words or offensive images
Toiletries and Personal Cleaning Items
While students may bring more or less toiletries, you must bring at least the essential toiletries, such as:
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Hairbrush or comb (hair dryers are not provided)
- Shampoo & Body wash/bar of soap
- 2 Towels - 1 for showering and 1 for swimming
- Sunscreen - we recommend waterproof
- Bug spray
- Any and all required medications
- Laundry Bag
- Women: Please bring enough tampons, pads, etc., for the program
Additional Items
We also recommend bringing the following items:
- Sunglasses/Hat/Visor
- Mask - recommended to protect against COVID-19
- COVID-19 Vaccination Card or Certificate
- TSA approved luggage strap or lock
- Camera
- Personal Entertainment - a book, game, etc. (as long as it easy to pack and not too heavy)
- Chargers/Electronics
- Chargers and Converters-
- Electronics - computers/laptops are not recommended
- A way of keeping track of time - phone, watch, etc. (to make sure you are on time)
- Student ID card
- An item that represents your home country or your culture
* Caution Note: You may want to leave behind items that you are particularly concerned about losing.
For Information about taking electronics/technology with you read Plan Your Packing