What clothes should I pack in my suitcase when I go abroad to study?
Let your destination and the season decide what you pack. Look up the weather for your first few months, bring roughly three weeks of clothes, and buy the rest after you land. Winter coats in particular are usually cheaper and better suited to the climate when bought locally.
Your destination and the season should decide what goes in your suitcase. Melbourne in September is mild and rainy, while Edmonton can already be freezing, so check the weather for your first three months before packing.
What to Pack
| Clothing item | What to pack |
|---|---|
| Everyday wear | T-shirts, shirts, jeans, trousers and comfortable outfits |
| Innerwear | Enough underwear, socks and other daily essentials for the first few weeks |
| Sleepwear | Comfortable clothes for sleeping |
| Warm clothing | Sweaters, hoodies, thermal wear and a winter jacket, depending on the climate |
| Rainwear | A raincoat or waterproof jacket if your destination gets frequent rain |
| Formal wear | One or two outfits for presentations, interviews or university events |
| Footwear | Comfortable walking shoes, everyday footwear and weather-appropriate shoes |
| Workout clothes | Sportswear if you plan to use a gym or take part in sports |
| Traditional wear | A few Indian outfits for festivals, cultural events or special occasions |
| Accessories | A belt, cap, gloves, scarf or other items suited to the local weather |
Smart Packing Rules
- Pack for about three weeks of wear and plan to do laundry.
- Buy bulky winter coats after you land, where they are usually cheaper and better suited to the local climate.
- Match your warm and rain gear to the weather of your first three months.
My Advice
Resist the urge to fill your suitcase with everything you own. Lay out three weeks of outfits, add one formal set and a few traditional pieces, and leave space for shopping locally. Check your airline baggage allowance before you finalize your list.
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