What are some must-pack things when moving to the US for studies?
by meenu4234
Going to the US for college soon and my head is spinningšµāš«
What are the things that are actually important to pack? Not talking about clothes and shoes, more like useful things most people forget or things thatās expensive thereā¦ anyone whoās already gone or is packing, please help
2 replies
sharad_panchal
Hi @meenu4234 ,
Totally get how youāre feeling ,I was in the same boat before moving to the US for my masterās. Itās super overwhelming trying to figure out whatās actually useful to pack, especially when thereās limited baggage space. Youāll be able to buy most things there, but some stuff is either expensive, hard to find, or just good to have from home.
Hereās a list that most students (including me) found really helpful:
Essentials to Pack -
Medicines (with prescriptions)
Bring at least 3ā6 months of anything you take regularly. Also pack basic stuff like cold, fever, allergy, and some over the counter meds, theyāre not cheap or quick to get in the US.
Adapter + power strip
A universal adapter and one good surge-protected power strip will make life easier. Way cheaper to buy in India.
Indian spices (buy small packs 50g)
Just the basics - turmeric, cumin, chili powder, garam masala. Indian grocery stores exist, but theyāre not always close, and theyāre expensive.
Utensils
If you plan to cook at all, this is super useful. Indian-style cookers and Tawa, One pan, one kadai, a serving spoon, a small plate, and a spoon/fork set. You donāt need a full kitchen setup.
Important documents
Keep originals and a few copies of your passport, visa, I-20, transcripts, vaccination proof, and insurance docs.
Indian SIM with roaming
Helps for OTPs and staying connected until you get a US number. Airtel and Jio both have decent roaming packs.
Bedsheet, towel, pillow cover (just one set)
Just enough to survive the first few days. You can buy more after settling in.
Winter jacket (if going to a cold place)
Bring a light one to start with. Iād recommend, Buy proper winter gear like a coat, boots, gloves in the US - theyāre better quality and designed for the weather.
Stationery
Basic stuff like pens, a notebook, calculator if required. Itās surprisingly pricey there.
Other Stuff People Forget -
Extra pair of glasses or contact lenses
Laptop charger, USB hub, external hard drive
Nail cutter, trimmer, tiny sewing kit
Upload all your important documents to Google Drive or Dropbox
Label your checked bags with your US address (if known) or college name
Keep a change of clothes and charger in your carry-on in case bags get delayed.
Also, if youāve already found your roommate, definitely connect with them and figure out whoās bringing what. Things like kitchen utensils, or even basic spices can be shared, and this helps a lot with managing baggage weight. No point both of you carrying the same stuff when you can split it smartly.
darshan_Lokesh
Here are some must pack things for your masters degree abroad!!!
1 Laptop
2 Mobile Phone
3 Power Bank
4 SSD Laptop 1TB
5 SSD External 256GB/ Pendrive
6 Travel Adapter Ceptics
7 Travel Adapter Multi
8 Universal Extension Box Cable
9 Router TENDA/T P LINK
10 Digital Weigh Scale Go TRIPIN
11 Digital Weigh Scale Food 5kg
12 Small Batteries for each (Coin/AA)
13 Beard Trimmer Kit
14 Scientific Calculator
15 Earbuds
16 Bluetooh Speakers
17 Lan Cable RJ45
18 Chargers and Adaptors for All Devices(USB Type)
19 Wired Earphone
20 Passport
21 Visa
22 Biometric/Visa Approval Letter
23 NOC Gmail from French Consulate(BAN)
24 AIR FRANCE Travel Ticket
25 International Driving Permit/ Indian DL Transalated
