Packing List

Important note about luggage:

Typically, you may bring a total of three bags with you (NOTE: different airlines have different rules, which are constantly changing. It is your responsibility (as a participant) to check the details on your ticket and make sure that you are following the rules for your specific airline/flight):

- ONE larger suitcase which you may check at the airport and pick up when you arrive in the U.S. (your "checked bag") - may not weigh more than 23 kg (50 lbs) - please pack light if you plan to purchase anything here you need space.

- TWO smaller "carry-on items" which you will bring with you on the plane (one small suitcase/backpack/bag no larger than 14 inches x 9 inches x 22 inches (23 x 35 x 56 cm), and one "personal item" which can be a backpack/purse/laptop).

Here is some advice about what clothing to pack:

Clothing (this is just a suggested list based on the kind of weather we can expect in winter, it can be either very cold or relatively cold, so we always suggest being prepared to wear layers) you can certainly use your own judgement:

  • 3-4 pairs of long pants/skirts/dresses

  • 4-5 long-sleeved shirts

  • 1-2 warm sweaters or sweatshirts

  • 1-2 special occasion outfits (dress/skirt or dress shirt/tie)

  • 8-10 pairs of underwear

    • 10 pairs of socks

    • 1 pair walking/gym shoes

    • 1 pair of special occasion shoes

    • 1-2 pairs of pajamas

    • 1 rain jacket

      Please bring at least one set of clothes that you won’t mind getting dirty! Some of our volunteer projects may involve cleaning or other activities where clothes can get dirty in the process.

    • A note about shoes: Even with reliable public transportation, everyone does a great deal of walking on every possible type of surface – pavement, mud, dirt, pebble, etc. Many of the program activities involve walking, regardless of the weather. All participants should bring at least one pair of good, comfortable walking shoes with water-resistant soles.

You will have some limited opportunities to do laundry during your stay. Laundry is available during your homestay, otherwise you will need to pay for laundry services.

During your time in Seattle, you will have an opportunity to teach other students and community members about your country and culture. Photos, arts & crafts items, examples of traditional clothing, picture books, games, and maps are all great examples of things you can bring that are fun for students to look at during your cultural activities.

Other items to pack:

  • Postcards from scenic locations in your countries/magnets/little souvenirs - you will meet plenty of people and usually students are very excited to present these little souvenirs to the people in the end of the program, hand-written cards can be especially meaningful (This is optional, of course, FIUTS will provide a thank you card in the end of the program for the participants to sign and give to host families and guest speakers, but if you want something more personal, it’s a good idea to bring one from your country). We put a lot of value in building the culture of gratitude.

  • Backpack or bag to use for everyday use and class

  • Personal toiletries for the first few days – these can easily be purchased and replenished once you arrive

  • Umbrella

  • Alarm clock

  • Electronic adapter (see explanation below)

Electrical Issues. The United States uses a different voltage than other parts of the world and has different plugs for electronic devices. You will need to have an electronic converter if you plan to use electronic devices that you bring from home.  Converters can be purchased in the U.S., but we highly recommend that you bring one with you as they are most likely cheaper in your home country, and you may want one as soon as you arrive in the U.S.

FOR FALL/WINTER: Weather in fall and winter can be cold, rainy, and in winter, potentially snowy! Please note that sturdy shoes or boots will be necessary to keep your feet warm and dry in rainy weather; sandals will not

be warm enough!

When you arrive, FIUTS will provide you with a hooded sweatshirt and a rain jacket. We recommend, however, that you bring warmer clothes with you as well; the best way to stay warm and dry is to wear layers. For example, you might wear a lighter long-sleeved shirt with a sweater or sweatshirt over it, and then add a warm coat and/or rain jacket when you go outside. We also recommend bringing a hat, scarf, and gloves if possible.