As the summer draws to a close, many of you are gearing up for an exciting next chapter in the United States. Whether you’re a student preparing for your first semester at a US university or a young professional starting a new job, this period of transition can be both thrilling and overwhelming.

To make your journey smoother, I’ve put together a comprehensive packing list and some essential tips to help you prepare for the fall. Let’s GO!

The Ultimate Packing List for Indian Students in the US 🧳

As you’re considering what to pack in your coveted two pieces of luggage, start with the most essential items first. Then move on to the “hard to find” Indian items that remind you of home and will contribute positively to your mental, physical, and emotional health. Lastly, add in items that are easier or cheaper to get in India. There are a few exceptions to these rules, which I’ll cover later, but keep this in mind as we go.

1. Documents & Essentials: (Reminder - keep these in your hand baggage. Do not put them in your checked bags.)
   • Passport and Visa: Ensure your passport 🛂 is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay and keep your visa documentation handy.
   • I-20 or DS-2019 Form: These are essential for your entry into the US and for maintaining your student status.
   • Admission Letters: Carry copies of your admission letter and any other correspondence from your university.
   • Financial Documents: Bring proof of funding 📄 and financial support as you might need to show these at immigration.
   • Health Insurance Information: It’s crucial to have health insurance in the US. Carry your policy documents and keep a digital copy as well.
   • Original, Sealed Transcripts: and copies. Often times these have already been submitted to the university, but you never know when a new opportunity arrises where original, sealed transcripts will be needed, so be prepared!
   • Driver’s Licence: Your Indian driver’s license will be valid to drive a vehicle in the US for some time.
   • Copies of All Important Documents: Make multiple copies of your passport, visa, I-20/DS-2019, and other important documents.🎒Keep a set in your carry-on and another in your checked luggage.
2. Clothing:
   • Comfortable Everyday Wear: Pack your favorite clothes that are suitable for different weather conditions. Layers work best for fluctuating temperatures.
   • Traditional Indian Attire: You might want to participate in cultural events or festivals, so bring a few traditional outfits.🥻
   • Formal Wear: You’ll need formal attire for presentations, interviews, or networking events. A suit or formal dress should be included and is often cheaper in India than purchasing it in the US.
   • Comfortable Shoes: If you already own a high quality pair, bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes, formal shoes, and some casual wear.👟 Often times you can find high quality shoes on sale in the US. If you do not already own a pair, consider waiting to purchase them in the US.
3. Electronics:
   • Laptop and Charger: 👩🏾‍💻While a laptop is essential for your studies and staying connected with family and friends back home👨🏾‍💻, wait to purchase one in the US if you don’t already own one.
   • Mobile Phone and Charger: Another item to wait and purchase in the US.📲 If you do bring one from India, make sure your phone is unlocked so you can use a US SIM card. FYI: Some models of Xiaomi and Oppo phones will have limited reception abilities in the US. 👀
   • Power Adapters and Converters: The US uses Type A and B plugs, so bring a couple of adapters and converters for your Indian Type C, D, and M electronics.
   • External Hard Drive or USB Stick: For backing up important data and documents. Again, purchase in the US if you don’t yet have one.
   • Headphones: Useful for listening to lectures, music🎧 , or watching movies without disturbing your roommate.
4. Personal Care:
   • Toiletries: Pack essentials like toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, deodorant, etc. 🪥 You can easily find these items in the US, but it’s good to have them on hand for the first few days.
   • Prescription Medications: Bring enough to last until you can find a local pharmacy. Be sure to keep them in the original packaging and carry a copy of the prescription with you.
   • Non-Prescription Medications: While over-the-counter medications can be accessed easily in the US, they can be costly. Additionally, when you’re feeling sick, you don’t want to have to try and find an alternative for the meds you know work for you in India, especially if they are homeopathic medicines.🇮🇳 Pack a small supply (2-3 sicknesses-worth) of medicines that you know and trust from India.
   • Eye Glasses or Contact Lenses: If you wear glasses🤓 or contacts, bring a spare pair and a copy of your prescription.
5. Kitchen Essentials:
   • Basic Spices: Indian spices can be found in the US, but it’s comforting to have your favorites immediately available. If you choose to bring some, pack small quantities of turmeric, cumin, garam masala, etc. in sealed, grocery-branded packages. Or if you don’t want to hassle going through customs with spices, grab some from Diaspora Co. when you get to the US.
   • A Few Utensils: While you can get all your basic pans and utensils in the US, a pressure cooker from India can make cooking your comfort food much easier.
   • Snacks and Ready-to-Eat Food: Bring some snacks and ready-to-eat meals 🍛 to tide you over until you settle in and find local grocery stores or plan to order a few from The Cumin Club in the US!
6. Miscellaneous:
   • Personal Keepsakes: Small mementos or anything to make your new place feel like home.✨
   • Photos of Family and Friends: To personalize your space and help with homesickness.
   • Cultural Items: Small items like a flag 🇮🇳, religious items, or anything that represents your culture that you can share with new friends.
   • Mom’s Recipes: For when you want to cook your favorite meals from home.

You may have noticed there are some things missing from this list. The following items are things you will need that you might be tempted to bring from India, but are often better purchased in the US:

1. Stationery: Notebooks, pens, and other stationery items you might need for classes.
2. Backpack or Sturdy Bag: For carrying your books, laptop, and daily essentials. 🎒
3. Bed Linen and Towels: Check with your accommodation if these are provided. If not, check the size of your bed 🛏 (Twin = single bed, XL Twin = single bed with extra length, Full = small double bed, Queen = medium double bed, King = large double bed) and grab a set in the US!
4. Warm Clothing and Boots: Fall and winter can get chilly, even snowy in some places, and warm clothes are a MUST! ❄️ Wait to purchase these in the US for high quality pieces that are designed for the local elements.

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Tips for Preparing for the Fall

1. Get Organized: Create a checklist ✅ of things to do before you leave for the US. This includes booking your flight, arranging accommodation and transportation from the airport to your new home, making sure all your documents are in order, purchasing the items you want to take, etc. Having a plan will reduce last-minute stress.
2. E-SIM: Available for purchase in India that will work in the US, an E-SIM can be really useful to be connected when you land in the US and before you have the opportunity to join a phone plan in the US.
3. Banking: Check with your Indian banks to know how you can access them internationally. Set up an account with Wise for easy money transfers to the US without the need of an OTP. 💵
4. Understand Your University’s Resources: Research the resources available at your university, such as international student support services, health centers, and student organizations. Familiarizing yourself with these can help you settle in more quickly. Attend orientation sessions and informational webinars offered by your university.
5. Health and Safety: Schedule a health check-up before you leave and ensure you have all necessary vaccinations and prescriptions. When you get to the US, check where the nearest hospital or medical clinic is to your new home and understand what hospital/clinic is covered by your health insurance.🏥 Not every doctor will be in your insurance network, so knowing this information ahead of time will be important when you get sick and may save you a lot of money.
6. Cultural Preparation: Moving to a new country involves cultural adjustments. Be open-minded and ready to learn about American culture, while also sharing your Indian heritage. Participate in cultural exchange programs or join Indian student associations to stay connected to your roots. Stay tuned for future emails to continue learning social norms and practices in the US to navigate your new environment smoothly.
7. Financial Planning: Understand the banking system in the US and consider opening a local bank account. Familiarize yourself with the cost of living in your area, including rent, groceries, transportation, and other daily expenses. Visit different shops to find the lowest prices to know how to budget realistically. Make a budget to manage your expenses efficiently, especially during the initial months. Consider using a free bugeting app like EveryDollar to track your expenses.
8. Networking: Utilize LinkedIn to connect with fellow Indian students or professionals in your area. Join online forums or social media groups to seek advice and share experiences. Attend networking events, seminars, and workshops to expand your professional connections. 👥 Building a support network can be immensely helpful during your transition.
9. Land Yourself an On-Campus Job: Being prepared early may give you a leg up on landing an on-campus job. Update your resume with key relevant work experience, skills, and your area of study. Connect with Student Employment Services early about job openings and start applying. Check your Social Security Number (SSN) eligibility and apply if you meet the requirements. This article lays out some helpful information and tips to apply for a SSN.
10. Familiarize Yourself with your City: Start exploring your new city!🌆 Look for public facilities to decrease not only boredom, but homesickness, too. Get to know city transportation routes, parks, public libraries, recreational centers, etc. You didn’t go all the way to the US just to be on campus! Enjoy your new home!

​As you embark on this new adventure, remember that every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Embrace the experiences, stay focused on your goals, and don’t hesitate to seek help when needed. Your journey to success in the US is unique, and with the right preparation, you can make it a memorable and rewarding one.

Wishing you all the best for the fall semester!

​Cheers ☕