Key takeaways
- Keep ALL key documents in your carry-on — never in checked luggage.
- Carry prescription medication in its original labelled packaging, with the prescription.
- Email scanned copies of your passport, visa and admission letter to yourself and a trusted family member.
- Pack for the climate and don't overpack — buy bulky or cheap items after you arrive.
Documents to keep in your carry-on
Immigration and university check-in may ask for these at short notice, and lost checked luggage must never cost you your documents. Keep them together in one folder in your hand luggage.
- Passport with your visa, and your admission / acceptance letter
- Proof of funds and financial documents (bank statements, scholarship/sponsor letters)
- Accommodation details and your arrival/contact person
- Academic transcripts, certificates and English-test results
- Health insurance details and vaccination/medical records
- Printed and digital copies of everything (email scans to yourself and family)
Carry-on essentials
- Some local currency plus a working debit/credit card
- Prescription medication in original labelled containers, with the prescription
- Phone, laptop, chargers and a universal power adapter
- Travel-size toiletries within airline liquid limits
- A change of clothes in case checked bags are delayed
Pack smart for your destination
- Weather-appropriate clothing — research the climate and seasons before you pack
- Comfortable shoes you can walk in
- A few items from home (food, cultural items) that are allowed through customs
- Don't overpack — buy bedding, bulky winter wear and cheap basics on arrival
Before you leave home
- Leave a full set of document copies with family
- Upload digital copies to secure cloud storage
- Check baggage allowance and any restricted items for your airline and destination
- Confirm your arrival plan: airport pickup or transport to your accommodation
Common mistakes to avoid
- Putting documents or medication in checked luggage
- No digital backup of passport, visa and admission letter
- Overpacking bulky items you could buy cheaply on arrival
- Forgetting a universal power adapter and some local cash
Frequently Asked Questions
What should never go in checked luggage?
Your passport and visa, admission letter, financial documents, prescription medication, and electronics. Keep all of these in your carry-on in case checked bags are delayed or lost.
How much should I pack?
Less than you think. Pack documents, climate-appropriate clothing and essentials, then buy bedding, winter wear and bulky basics after you arrive — it is often cheaper and saves baggage fees.
Can I bring food from home?
Some packaged items are allowed, but many countries restrict fresh, meat and plant products. Check your destination's customs rules before packing food to avoid fines or confiscation.
Related guides
Visa Readiness
What a strong, honest student-visa application needs — and how to reduce refusal risk.
Proof of Funds
What counts as proof of funds, how long money must be held, and the mistakes that cause refusals.
Work While Studying
Honest rules on part-time work, internships and post-study options — and why not to rely on work income.