10 Travel Checklist: Things to Carry to USA for Indian Students

MSM Unify
4 min readDec 17, 2023

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Starting the adventure of international study in the USA for Indian students marks an exhilarating phase for them. Nevertheless, adapting to a new country brings its share of difficulties. It is vital to have a carefully planned travel checklist to guarantee a seamless and pleasant stay.

In this guide, we will explore the top 10 essentials that Indian students should consider bringing to the USA. From practical necessities to personal comforts, each item on the list plays a vital role in enhancing the overall study abroad experience.

Study in USA for Indian Students

The USA continues to be a favored destination for international students, and Indian students contribute significantly to this trend. According to data from the Institute of International Education (IIE), the number of Indian students in the USA surpassed 200,000 in the 2019–2020 academic year. This growing influx underscores the country’s appeal as a premier destination for global education.

10 Things to Bring to USA

1. Valid passport and visa documents

A valid passport and the necessary visa documents are the foundation of your journey. Ensure they are up-to-date and easily accessible. They are crucial for smooth entry into the USA.

Tip: Keep physical and digital copies in different secure locations, and share the details with a trusted contact for emergencies.

2. Financial essentials

Carry international credit/debit cards and a nominal amount of USD in cash. This ensures you can handle transactions seamlessly and have some local currency for immediate needs.

Tip: Notify your bank about your travel plans to avoid any card-related issues.

3. Health insurance and medical records

Health insurance is essential in the USA, where medical expenses can be high. Carry a copy of your insurance details and any relevant medical records for reference.

Tip: Understand your insurance coverage and locate nearby healthcare facilities upon arrival.

4. Prescription medications

If you have prescribed medications, bring an ample supply. Additionally, pack a basic first aid kit for minor health concerns.

Tip: Research the availability of your medications in the USA and consider bringing a doctor’s note for customs.

5. Adapters and electronic gadgets

Carry universal power adapters to charge your electronic devices. This ensures you can stay connected and powered up throughout your stay.

Tip: Check the voltage requirements of your devices to avoid potential damage.

6. Clothes for different seasons

The USA has varied climates, so pack clothing suitable for different seasons. Include essentials like jackets, comfortable shoes, and layers for flexibility.

Tip: Research the climate of your specific location to pack accordingly.

7. Academic items

Keep academic documents, such as acceptance letters and transcripts, along with personal identification documents. These are vital for various purposes, including accommodation and enrollment.

Tip: Have both physical and digital copies stored securely.

8. Cultural and personal items

Bring a few items that provide comfort and a sense of home, such as cultural artifacts, photographs, or favorite snacks.

Tip: While adapting to a new culture is essential, having a few familiar items can help ease homesickness.

9. Laptop and academic supplies

A laptop is a crucial tool for academic activities. Carry necessary academic supplies to ensure you’re well-equipped for your courses.

Tip: Check if your institution has any specific requirements for electronic devices.

10. Local SIM card and emergency contacts

Upon arrival, get a local SIM card for your phone to have a local number. Also, keep a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities and your institution.

Tip: Familiarize yourself with emergency services and contacts in your area.

Preparing a comprehensive travel checklist is an essential step for a successful study in the USA for Indian students. The checklist serves as a guide to ensure a smooth transition and a comfortable stay. As the trend of Indian students studying in the USA continues to grow, being well-prepared becomes increasingly crucial.

Be prepared more than ever with MSM Unify. Check out our website for more.

FAQs

1. What should I bring from India to the USA?

You will find everything you need in the US. The crucial things that you must bring are crucial documents, important gadgets and their adapters, necessary clothes according to the weather, prescription medicines along with the prescription, etc.

2. How much cash should I carry to the USA as a student?

Legally, you are permitted to carry cash up to $3,000 from India to the US. However, you can carry more money with you in the form of credit cards, traveler’s checks, etc.

3. Can I carry Indian snacks and spices to the USA?

Most Indian snacks and spices are allowed to be carried while traveling from India to the US. However, it is best to check the list of allowed and prohibited items with the international airlines, and pack the allowed ones in airtight containers to avoid spillage.

Read for more info: https://study-in-usa-consultant.weebly.com/10-travel-checklist-things-to-carry-to-usa-for-indian-students.html

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MSM Unify

MSM Unify: Your trusted overseas education consultancy for seamless study abroad experiences. https://www.msmunify.com/