What do I pack in my suitcase?

To decide what to pack in your suitcase might become a challenge; what kind of clothes should I bring? for warm weather, for cold weather, which documents to prepare, personal things I would need ... etc. Many things that should fit in a small amount of weight and size ... We are aware of that and we want to give you a few tips you might find very helpful. 

Research the weather and climate

 Before you start to pack your stuff, find out how the weather will be in your chosen city. The best way to do this is the Internet e.g. www.weather.com. After this you’ll have a pretty good understanding of what kind of clothes are the best choice.

Luggage

Usually, one suitcase of 20 kilos more or less and one hand baggage are included in the flight price. Please ensure that you will not exceed the 20 Kilos, because every kilo of overweight is very, very expensive; sometimes 30/60 € per kilo.

Packing List

Please note, the following list is just a suggestion . You will have to adapt this list to your own needs.

Clothes

• Underwear (two week’s worth)
• Socks (two week’s worth plus a pair of wool socks)
• Undershirts
• Thermal underwear (only if it cold weather)
• Long sleeve shirts
• Short sleeve shirts
• Sweatshirt/ hoodie (2-3)
• Sweaters
• Jeans/ Khakis (2-3 pair)
• Shorts
• A belt or two
• Skirts (for the girls)
• A set or two of workout clothes
• Pyjamas
• Swimsuit (for those going to warmer climates)
• Coat/Jacket (We recommend at least 2 – one for cold weather, and one that is water- resistant)
• Flip flops/ sandals of some sort (good if you’re going to a warm climate, but also good for hostel showers)
• Sneakers/ dress shoes/ boots/ rain boots
• Cold weather gear (i.e. gloves/ mittens, hat, scarf)  only if necessary

Toiletries

• Shampoo/Conditioner
• Toothbrush/toothpaste
• Soap
• Deodorant
• Feminine Products (one month’s worth – should go without saying you don’t want to be stuck without those)
• Brush/Comb
• Razors/ other shaving supplies
• Contact lenses and solution
• Nail clippers
• Makeup
• Over-the-counter medicines
• Tissues/ toilet paper (you don’t want to be stuck in a bathroom when its run out)

We recommend bringing liquids like shampoo, soap etc. in small bottles. Those will be enough for the first days. Then you can buy more at your destination. This way you can save a few kilos.

Extras

• Purse/ wallet
• Important documents (passport, visa, itinerary, plane tickets, ISIC card, etc.)
• Sunglasses/ extra eye glasses/contacts
• Cell phone
• Laptop and charger (you’ll need an outlet adapter for the plug on your charger to work)
• Camera w/cords and charger
• Sheets/ bed linens (in most of accommodations they are provided)
• Bath towels
• Enough prescription drugs for the length of your stay (You need to make sure you are allowed to bring them into the country and that you have documentation, either the prescription or a doctor’s note)
• MP3 Player/ iPod (for long plane/train rides)
• Map of your city
• Pen and notebooks for the class
• Backpack (for daily use and as your carry while traveling)
• Travel Guide

By Diana Martinez Herrero