Packing for Studying Abroad

• Label your luggage (inside and outside) with your name, destination address, and telephone.
  • Remember: you will be carrying these bags when you get to your destination, and you will be carrying them if you travel after the program.
• If you lock your luggage use TSA (Transportation Security Administration) Locks. These locks can be opened by TSA personnel if your bag is chosen for inspection by customs officials at departure and arrival points. If possible, have two sets of keys for locked luggage, to carry separately.
• Do not pack valuables (cameras, money, jewelry, items with sentimental value, etc.) in checked baggage. Don’t take valuables abroad (such as jewelry) that can’t be replaced, or that you would be very sorry to lose.
• Pack essentials in your carry-on. In case your bags go astray, you should have in your carry-on bag a few toiletries, prescription medications, a change of clothing, cell phone and charger, eyeglasses—anything you “can’t live without” for a day or two. If your baggage does not arrive with you, file a claim with the airline before you leave the airport.
• In a waist or neck wallet, or front pockets, carry your passport/visa, airline tickets, cash/checks, credit/ATM cards, study abroad documentation, and the address/phone/directions of where you need to go upon arrival.
• Know what current airport rules are for carry-on items: www.tsa.gov
• Watch your bags and do not agree to carry packages/items for anyone else.

Luggage Restrictions

All airlines have restrictions on the size, weight, and number of luggage items that you can take without incurring additional, and significant, expenses. Note that while international flights (e.g. across the Atlantic) may allow for two checked bags, continental flights (e.g. within Europe) may allow only one checked bag (without fee). Visit your airline web site for specific, up-to-date information concerning baggage allowances and fees.