What to Pack in Your Carry-On Versus Checked Bag When Flying Abroad to Study

What must stay in your carry-on

Never check your passport, visa or entry clearance documents, university acceptance letter, insurance papers, or any cash and cards. Airlines occasionally misroute or delay checked luggage, and losing these documents on arrival day creates a bigger problem than losing clothes.

Pack a few days of clothing and any prescription medication in your carry-on too, with medication in its original packaging and a copy of the prescription if you carry more than a small supply. This protects you if your checked bag is delayed by a day or two.

Laptops, chargers, and any spare lithium batteries or power banks belong in your carry-on. Airlines prohibit power banks and spare batteries in checked luggage entirely, since they are a fire risk in the cargo hold.

The liquids rule

Most airports limit liquids, gels and aerosols in carry-on to containers of 100ml or less, all fitting inside one clear resealable bag. This covers toiletries, skincare and any liquid medication above the exempted amount. Pack larger bottles of shampoo, lotion or similar items in your checked bag instead, or buy them after you land.

What goes in your checked bag

Bulk clothing, shoes, bedding, and anything you will not need on your first day are safe to check. Weigh your checked bag against your airline's allowance before you leave for the airport, since fees for overweight luggage add up fast and airlines enforce the limit strictly at check-in. Allowances differ by airline and ticket type, so check your specific booking rather than assuming a standard weight.

Customs rules at your destination

Many countries restrict or ban bringing in fresh fruit, meat, dairy, plants, seeds and soil, particularly destinations with strict biosecurity rules such as Australia and New Zealand. Declare any food items you do carry, since undeclared restricted items can lead to a fine even if you did not know the rule. Check your destination's customs website for the current prohibited and restricted items list before you pack, since rules differ by country.

A simple carry-on checklist

• Passport, visa or eVisa printout, and acceptance or enrollment letter

• Insurance documents and any medical certificates

• Medication in original packaging, plus a copy of your prescription

• Laptop, phone, chargers, and any power banks or spare batteries

• One change of clothes and basic toiletries under 100ml

• A printed copy of your accommodation address and university contact details