Clothing
You will want to pack clothing that is both seasonally and culturally appropriate for Germany. Bring clothes that can be mixed, matched and layered, and it’s best to avoid clothing that is delicate or requires ironing. A good pair of walking shoes is a must. Try to avoid wearing clothing with university or Greek life logos that will make you stand out as an American. Athletic attire is generally worn for exercise purposes only and not as street attire. You may need nicer clothes for a special occasion, so consider packing one dressier outfit. There may also be events or site visits that require more conservative dress, so you should also be prepared for times when you may need to cover your shoulders or legs.
Leipzig and Berlin both have a mild, humid, temperate climate with warm summers and no dry season. During the months of May and June, the daily temperatures are usually in the mid-70s and fall into the 50s at night.
Electrical items
You will need an adapter to plug your electrical items into the German sockets — types C and F are the official standard. You may also need a converter to adapt certain items to the German current. If you purchase a converter, you will need one that transforms U.S. 120 volts to German 230 volts and goes up to 1,500 watts. Most students feel it is better to purchase hair dryers, curling/flat irons or electric shavers abroad or to do without them. You should also be mindful that electricity is often more expensive abroad than it is in the United States.
Suggested packing list
Please check TSA and your airlines’ guidelines for packing restrictions, luggage size requirements and fees.
Carry-on luggage
- Passport and state driver’s license or ID
- Airline ticket(s) and itinerary
- U.S. and foreign currency (preferably in a money pouch or belt)
- Credit and debit/ATM cards
- Copies of important travel documents and emergency contact information (always carry an emergency card containing important emergency phone numbers, including the number of the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and your insurance cards)
- Prescription medications in their original containers
- Camera, memory cards/film
- Laptop and any small electronic devices
- Chargers or extra batteries
- Extra change of clothes and undergarments
- Wash cloth and soap in a travel case or disposable wipes
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Contact lenses and solution, glasses
- Earplugs
- Books/magazines
- Snacks, gum or mints
- Watch
Checked luggage
- Extra copies of important travel documents and emergency contact information
- Seasonally and culturally appropriate clothes that can be mixed and matched and layered
- Undergarments, shoes and accessories
- Jacket or coat appropriate for host country climate
- Flip flops for the shower
- Swimsuit, beach towel and sunscreen
- Toiletries
- Feminine hygiene products (if applicable, certain types may not be available in your host country)
- First-aid kit
- Extra pair of prescription glasses or contact lenses
- Small umbrella, poncho or rain jacket
- Insect repellent
- Battery operated alarm clock
- Contraceptives (if applicable)
- Music/photographs
- Alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- Small bag for weekend travel
- Plug adapter
- Sunglasses
- Combination or key locks (to secure luggage in accommodations, if necessary)
- Travel guides and language phrase book
- Diary or journal
- Small flashlight
- Ethernet cable