Semester Abroad Packing List

Preparing for a semester abroad? This ultimate study abroad packing list covers everything you’ll need for several months overseas—from clothing and documents to electronics, dorm gear, toiletries, school supplies, and culture-specific extras. Whether you’re heading to Europe, Asia, or anywhere in between, this printable checklist helps students stay organized and stress-free while packing for international study.

Click Here For Semester Abroad Essentials

🌍 Student Travel Essentials for Life and Learning Overseas

📄 Travel Documents

  • Passport (valid for 6+ months)
  • Student visa & acceptance letter
  • Flight tickets (print + digital)
  • Travel insurance info
  • Emergency contact list
  • Extra passport photos
  • Photocopies of all documents
  • University enrollment confirmation
  • Class schedule copy
  • Local embassy/consulate contact
  • Proof of vaccinations
  • Prescription letter from doctor (if needed)

🧳 Clothing (Multi-Season)

  • 7–10 everyday tops (mix of short & long sleeves)
  • 3–5 pairs of pants or skirts
  • 1–2 formal outfits
  • 1–2 athletic outfits
  • 1 jacket or coat
  • Rain jacket or umbrella
  • Undergarments (10–12 sets)
  • Sleepwear (2–3 sets)
  • Sneakers or walking shoes
  • Casual shoes + sandals
  • Swimsuit
  • Gloves, hat, scarf (cold weather)

🛋️ Toiletries

  • Toothbrush + toothpaste
  • Shampoo, conditioner, body wash
  • Razor + shaving cream
  • Deodorant
  • Nail clippers, tweezers
  • Hairbrush or comb
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Lip balm + sunscreen
  • Contacts + solution
  • Medications + prescription copy
  • Thermometer
  • Cold/flu meds + motion sickness tabs
  • Electrolyte packets

📚 Academic Supplies

  • Backpack or daypack
  • Notebooks or folders
  • Pens, pencils, highlighters
  • Laptop + charger
  • USB drive or portable SSD
  • Planner or calendar
  • Flashcards or sticky notes

📱 Electronics

  • Smartphone + charger
  • Power adapter/converter
  • Headphones or earbuds
  • Power bank
  • SIM card or eSIM plan
  • VPN access
  • Cloud storage (Google Drive, iCloud)
  • Offline maps + currency converter app

🏠 Dorm/Apartment Essentials

  • Sheets + pillowcase (twin/XL twin)
  • Lightweight blanket or duvet
  • Bath towel & washcloth
  • Laundry bag + detergent
  • Drying rack (optional)
  • Clip lamp or desk light
  • Doorstop or travel lock
  • Reusable shopping tote
  • Basic decor or comfort items

🍽️ Food & Kitchen (if needed)

  • Reusable utensils + bowl/plate
  • Mug or thermos
  • Light snacks for arrival
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Water filter (optional)

🧠 Cultural & Social Prep

  • Phrasebook or language app
  • Cultural etiquette cheat sheet
  • Small gifts for hosts or friends
  • Photos of family/home
  • Card or board game
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