🎒 What to Pack Before Leaving India for Your Master’s in the US
Packing for your move to the U.S. as a student can feel overwhelming. With the right plan, you’ll bring what matters and skip what’s cheaper/easier to buy there. Use this guide to stay light, organized, and stress-free.
📝 Step 1: Make a Master Packing List
Create categories—documents, electronics, clothing, toiletries/meds, footwear, kitchen, and misc. Prioritize items you’ll need in week one; defer bulky/seasonal buys to the U.S.
- Focus on immigration and housing setup essentials first.
- Leave non-urgent, cheap items to purchase after you arrive.
🛍️ Step 2: Shop for Essentials Before You Pack
Buy only what adds real utility or saves immediate hassle.
- Travel adapters: U.S. Type A/B. Carry 2–3 good adapters.
- Luggage: Durable check-ins + a cabin bag that fits your airline’s limits.
- Clothing: Check your city’s climate; thermals for cold states, rain layer for coastal cities.
🧳 Step 3: Pack Smart and Efficiently
Space and weight are premium—pack like it.
- Roll clothes; use packing cubes/zip pouches.
- Keep passport, visa, I-20, admit letter, and cash/cards in cabin.
- Med kit (basic pain relief, cold/fever, prescriptions) in original packaging.
✈️ Step 4: Prepare for Airport and Baggage Checks
Reduce airport stress and avoid surprise fees.
- Weigh bags at home; stay under airline limits.
- Use TSA-approved locks; label each bag with name, U.S. address, phone, and email.
- Keep a change of clothes and chargers in cabin in case of delays.
Quick Lists
Documents (Cabin)
- Passport, F‑1 visa, I‑20 (signed)
- Admit/finances, SEVIS fee receipt
- University contact & housing details
- International debit/forex card, some USD
Electronics
- Laptop + charger, phone + charger
- 2–3 plug adapters (Type A/B)
- Power bank (capacity within airline rules)
- Earphones/headphones
Clothing & Footwear
- Week’s worth of daily wear + lounge
- 1–2 formals (career fairs/interviews)
- Thermals/jacket (per destination climate)
- Sneakers + slippers; add boots later if needed
Toiletries & Meds
- Travel‑size toiletries for first week
- Prescription meds (+ doctor’s note)
- Basic OTC meds; specs/contacts backup
- Compact micro‑fiber towel
Tip: Heavy winter coats, extra utensils, and bulk groceries are easier to buy after you land.
✅ Final Checklist
- Master packing list complete
- Essential shopping done
- Documents in cabin/personal item
- Luggage labeled, weighed, and locked (TSA)
- Emergency numbers and university contacts handy
🙋♀️ FAQs
How many bags should I carry for my U.S. flight?
Most students carry 2 check-in bags (23 kg each), 1 cabin bag (~7–10 kg), and a personal item. Always confirm your airline’s latest policy.
Should I buy winter jackets in India or the U.S.?
Basic thermals from India are fine, but buy heavy winter gear in the U.S. for better warmth/price and easier returns.
Do I need voltage converters?
Many modern electronics are dual-voltage (100–240V). If yours isn’t, bring a converter. You’ll still need Type A/B plug adapters.
Can I carry Indian groceries and spices?
Packed, sealed, and labeled dry items are usually fine, but avoid fresh produce/meat. Check customs rules and declare if required.
Where should I keep passport, I-20, and visa?
Always keep important documents in your cabin/personal item—never in check-in luggage.