Looking Forward to a Semester Abroad in Canada – What Shouldn't Be Missing in Your Luggage?
Packing my suitcase marked the beginning of my excitement for my semester abroad in Canada. But what‘s the best way to pack to be well-prepared?
Choosing the Right Luggage
For my flight to Canada, I booked one large checked suitcase, a carry-on bag, and a backpack – this combination worked perfectly for me.
Clothing for Every Weather Condition
When choosing my clothes, I first researched the Canadian weather. On Vancouver Island, the weather from September to December is similar to Germany – mild but changeable. That‘s why my suitcase included everything: plenty of T-shirts, warm sweaters, and a winter jacket. Hiking and skiing gear can also come in handy.
Cosmetics and Medication
I kept my cosmetic items to the essentials. To save weight, I skipped large bottles of shampoo and shower gel, buying them on my first day in Canada instead. This left more room in my suitcase for other items. You can find these products at a great price in stores like Dollarstore or Costco. If you take specific medications, don‘t forget to pack them!
Practical and Space-Saving Items
Towels and bedding were already provided in my accommodation, so I didn‘t need to bring them. Make sure to check in advance if these are necessary for your stay. Otherwise, I recommend microfiber towels – they‘re lightweight, space-saving, and perfect for weekend trips.
My Carry-On Luggage
Electronic Devices and Accessories
I packed all my electronic devices in my carry-on, including my laptop, tablet, and chargers. I also brought my camera, which I highly recommend! The landscapes in Canada are absolutely worth capturing. Additionally, I packed power adapters so I could charge my devices without issues. For a hairdryer, you‘ll need a voltage converter, as Canada‘s power voltage is much lower than in Germany.
Important Documents
I kept all essential documents handy in my carry-on, including:
– ID card
– Passport
– Driver‘s license
– Vaccination card
– Credit card (I didn‘t exchange any cash)
– ETA and ESTA (if traveling via the USA)
Host Gift
Don‘t forget: a small gift if you‘re staying with a host family. This could be your favorite German sweets or something typical from your hometown. I brought several souvenirs from my university city, Münster.
Don‘t Worry About Forgetting Something
If you forget something, don‘t stress – you can buy most items easily in Canada!
