Clothing
You will want to pack clothing that is both seasonally and culturally appropriate for South Korea. 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 and not as street attire. You may need nicer clothes for a special occasion, so consider packing one dressier outfit. Styles in South Korea tend to be a bit dressier than in the United States. As a visitor, people will tend to treat you better and be more helpful if you are nicely attired.
Electrical appliances
You will need an adapter to plug your electrical items into the Korean sockets — types C and F are the official standard. You may also need a converter to adapt certain items to the Korean current. If you purchase a converter, you will need one that transforms U.S. 120 volts to Korean 220 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
- Slippers or house shoes (Koreans typically remove their shoes or change into slippers indoors)
- 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
- Power converter/adapter
- Sunglasses
- Combination or key locks (to secure luggage in accommodations, if necessary)
- Travel guides and language phrase book
- Diary or journal
- Small flashlight
- Small gift for homestay host (if applicable)