Starting your journey as an international student in the USA is both exciting and challenging. Having gone through the process, I want to share some practical tips on packing and shipping essentials to make your transition smoother.
Shipping vs. Carrying: What’s Best?
- Shipping (Recommended for heavy/bulky items): If you’ve secured housing before arriving, shipping heavy items like winter clothes, home appliances, or extra clothing is a great option. You can easily send them through your local post office.
- Carrying (Essentials only): For smaller, critical items (like documents), pack them in your carry-on to keep them with you during your travels.
What You Can Buy in the USA
Many items may be cheaper or more convenient to buy in the U.S. during seasonal sales like Amazon Prime Day or Black Friday in November. Consider waiting to purchase certain things until you arrive, especially electronics or furniture.
- Tip: As a student, you can get six months of free Amazon Prime, which makes online shopping and delivery easier. Be mindful of the quality when buying inexpensive items — sometimes cheap products compromise on durability. And do be sure the size of the item you bought makes sense, pictures are illusive!
Essential Items to Pack
Here’s a list of must-bring items that are either too important to leave behind or may be harder to find immediately in the U.S.:
- Documents: Passport, I-20, DS-160, visa, vaccine records, personal ID, financial proofs, transcripts, and housing contracts. These are crucial and must be in your carry-on.
- Personal Hygiene Items: Bring basics like combs, a towel, nail clippers, etc. Keep liquids under the allowed limit to avoid border security issues.
- Clothes: Pack enough clothes for at least 3–4 days (including a jacket and extra underwear). Some washing machines in the U.S. require local credit cards, so be prepared for potential delays in laundry access.
- Comfort Food: Bring a few favorite snacks or tea from home. It’s comforting to have familiar food when you’re overwhelmed by settling in.
- Basic Utensils: Consider packing a plate, bowl, utensils (fork, spoon, chopsticks). While you can buy these in the U.S., some stores may have limited variety.
- Tools: A small utility knife is a must for opening packages. While a full toolset is optional, it is likely not very useful.
- Sleeping Bag: If your new place isn’t furnished, a sleeping bag can be a lifesaver for your first few nights.
- Money: Can you live without it?
Evaluate What to Bring
Before packing, consider:
- Can it be easily bought in the U.S.?
- Is it worth the hassle to carry?
- When will you be able to move in?
Make careful decisions. For example, I bought two laptops because I needed them for my computer science studies, and though they were heavy, they were essential for me.
Final Thoughts
You’ve already achieved something significant by being admitted to a U.S. school — now focus on what’s within your control. Whether it’s studying, building skills, or planning internships for next summer, keep your priorities clear. As for things like money or the job market, they’ll work themselves out in time.
