Clothing
You will want to pack clothing that is both seasonally and culturally appropriate for Sweden. 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 of 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.
Electrical appliances
You will need an adapter to plug your electrical items into the Swedish sockets — types C and F are the official standard. You may also need a converter to adapt certain items to the Swedish current. If you purchase a converter, you will need one that transforms U.S. 120 volts to Swedish 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.
Household items
You are expected to provide your own bedding, towels and kitchenware. You might want to bring your own laptop, as the majority of dorm rooms and apartments have a direct internet connection. You will need a network adapter/card of ethernet standard 10 MB and a cable of category 5. If you don’t have a computer or prefer not to bring one, you can use the computer facilities at the university.
If you wish to ship your personal belongings before departure, send them to the address below. You will pick up your package from the International Office upon your arrival at Linnaeus University. After arrival, have all mail and packages sent to your Swedish address.
Vaxjo: Linnaeus University
[Your name]
c/o International Office, Office of Student Affairs
Se-351 95 Vaxjo
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
- 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