United States Welcome Guide

Coming to the U.S.

Welcome to the United States! We’re here to help you know what to pack and where to shop if it’s your first time living in the U.S.

What to Bring in Your Carry-On

What to Bring in Your Suitcase

What to Leave at Home

Packing List

Immigration documents including your I-20/DS-2019, Visa and Passport
Cash – Enough for your first few days here in the U.S.
Clothing and medication – enough for a few days in case your luggage gets lost or delayed in transit
Personal electronics, like your laptop computer, mobile phone or other small devices.
Emergency contacts
- OISS: +1 (651) 962-6650
- Public Safety: +1 (651) 962-5500

Herbs and spices from home. You may not be able to buy certain items here in the U.S.
Traditional clothing or small items from your home country. There are a few events throughout the year on campus that allow for you to teach others about your home country and culture and it is always nice to have a few items to show others.
A power adapter. The electricity voltage here in the U.S. is 120 V with a frequency of 60 Hz. You may want to buy an adapter if you plan on bringing an electrical appliance from home.

A large amount of everyday items. During orientation, OISS will host a trip to Target where you can buy everyday items such as soap, shampoo/conditioner, pillows, sheets, etc.
Meat. U.S. customs is very strict. See a list of items you’re allowed to bring.

If you would like an example of a packing list, here's a document we created for you! Feel free to print it and add your own items.

Immigration documents including your I-20/DS-2019, Visa and Passport
Cash – Enough for your first few days here in the U.S.
Clothing and medication – enough for a few days in case your luggage gets lost or delayed in transit
Personal electronics, like your laptop computer, mobile phone or other small devices.
Emergency contacts
- OISS: +1 (651) 962-6650
- Public Safety: +1 (651) 962-5500

Herbs and spices from home. You may not be able to buy certain items here in the U.S.
Traditional clothing or small items from your home country. There are a few events throughout the year on campus that allow for you to teach others about your home country and culture and it is always nice to have a few items to show others.
A power adapter. The electricity voltage here in the U.S. is 120 V with a frequency of 60 Hz. You may want to buy an adapter if you plan on bringing an electrical appliance from home.

A large amount of everyday items. During orientation, OISS will host a trip to Target where you can buy everyday items such as soap, shampoo/conditioner, pillows, sheets, etc.
Meat. U.S. customs is very strict. See a list of items you’re allowed to bring.