Preparing for Departure
It is important to remember to pack light, since you will have to carry your luggage around with everywhere you travel. Also, you will probably bring back more than you came with. Therefore, keep your packing simple and down to the essentials. It is important to know that most airlines allow you to check two bags and have one carry-on piece of luggage. We suggest a backpack may be a better option than a suitcase for traveling around. As for clothing, you should pack according to the season in which you are coming. Yet, remember you may go a week without doing laundry, so pack enough clothes to last you a week. Remember to bring the clothing needed for your particular job. Sometimes when you first arrive your luggage may be temporarily lost. In the event that this happens, it is wise to pack at least one change of clothes in your carry-on bag and include the following:
- Personal valuables (cameras, eyeglasses, jewelry, electronics, money)
- Passport with J-1 Visa and DS 2019. Make copies of these documents
- Flight ticket, other travel tickets (make copies of all travel tickets)
- Traveler's checks (keep the record slip separately)
- Employer's and/or sponsorship letter
- Insurance material (ID card, etc.)
- Home country and international driver's license
- Student card and at least 2 other photo Ids
- PII Work and Travel handbook and other supplements
- Copies of your CV, reference letters, Work and Travel Job Directory
- Financial arrangements you made with your family and bank
- U.S. cash - small denominations
- Credit cards
- Prescription medication in the original container and a copy of your prescription
For your backpack or suitcase you should pack all clothing, medicine and toiletries, and miscellaneous items that adapt to your needs. Remember to bring clothing suitable for interviews and work. If you do not want to pack all these items, yet find a need for them, they are all available to buy in the United States.