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Packing List for Indian Students for Europe

Updated on 29 April, 2024

Akansha Semwal

Akansha Semwal

Study Abroad Expert

For Indian students planning a study abroad trip to Europe, detailed preparation and financial planning are essential. When packing, account for weather conditions and airline luggage restrictions, and opt for luggage wisely to avoid additional expenses. Factor in living expenses such as food, transportation, and lodging costs in Europe. The average annual cost of living in Europe typically falls between €10,000 and €12,000. With the given packing list for Indian students for Europe, you can plan your European study abroad journey seamlessly. 

Research Before You Start Packing for Europe

Make a list, filter it, and finalize it. This is a prudent approach to shortlist the essentials. Here's our packing list for Indian students for Europe, from electronics and necessities for healthcare to clothing to wear in Europe.

Understanding Climate and Weather Patterns Unique to Your Chosen European City

The climate varies widely across Europe. Summer brings scorching weather to southern and eastern Europe, whereas the north has a more temperate temperature. Winters are frigid in Western, Eastern, and Northern Europe but moderate in the south. Obviously, you'll need different clothing for each place and season. 

Look into the average temperatures and weather patterns for the city you're visiting in Europe. Take weather, wind, humidity, and precipitation patterns into account.

Consider How Seasonal Changes Influence Your Clothing Choices

When planning to study in Europe, it's important to consider the changing weather throughout the year. Europe has different seasons, each with its own weather patterns. Spring is usually pleasant with some rain, while summers can be warm or hot. Fall brings cooler temperatures, and winters can be very cold, sometimes below zero. Pack light clothes for summer and layers for spring and fall. Don't forget warm clothing like hats, coats, waterproof shoes and gloves for winter. Being prepared for all kinds of weather will ensure a comfortable European study experience.

Check Baggage Allowances and Other Restrictions of Your Flight

It's important to review your airline's baggage policies and any restrictions before your journey to Europe. Ensure your luggage complies with the size and weight restrictions to prevent extra charges or hassles at the airport. 

Choose Your Luggage Bag

Ensure your luggage adheres to your airline's size and weight restrictions. Most airlines allow 20–23 kg for checked baggage, but hand luggage has tight weight and size restrictions. Confirm the most recent rules with your airline before you depart.

Separate Items for Checked-In and Carry-On Luggage

Organize your belongings based on whether they will be packed in your larger suitcase to be checked in with the airline or kept with you in a smaller bag during the flight.

Checked-in Luggage: This typically includes bigger items and non-essential items. These may include spare clothes, toiletries in larger quantities, and other bulkier items.

Carry-on Luggage: Your carry-on bag should contain essential items you'll need during the flight and immediately upon arrival. This includes travel documents like passport, visa, boarding pass, wallet with money and cards, medication, and any other items you may need during the flight or for your first day at your destination.

Checklist of Things to Carry While Traveling to Germany from India

We have made a checklist of things you should carry while traveling to Germany from India.

Important Documents to Carry

  • Passport (and extra copies of passport photos)
  • Printed copy of student visa
  • Copy of your birth certificate
  • University enrollment confirmation, acceptance letter
  • Housing contract
  • University transcripts
  • Electronic Travel Authorization (if required)
  • Proof of medical and travel insurance
  • Embassy/consulate phone numbers and/or email
  • List of emergency contacts
  • Copy of medical records, vaccination certificates
  • Flight tickets
  • Bank statements

Essential Clothing Articles

  • Clothes –Bring clothing that is easy to layer for different climates, as well as durable and cozy
  • Jeans – A few pairs
  • Hoodie/Sweaters
  • Pajamas – two pairs at most
  • One set of workout clothes
  • Light jacket 
  • Accessories – A few accessories always help. Don’t overdo it.
  • Scarves
  • Flip flops – Ideal for showering in hostels
  • Walking shoes – Find a comfortable, trendy shoe; walking is an important element of college life
  • Running shoes 

Electronics Devices

  • Laptop Computer
  • Camera – Memory cards, chargers and adapters
  • Headphones 
  • Power strip with converter
  • Cell phone – Your mobile phone will not work overseas unless you purchase a SIM card-compatible phone. An inexpensive cell phone can be acquired abroad; pay by the minute. Request that your onsite program coordinator accompany you to the local phone store

Vital Household & Hygiene Items

  • Consider carrying small amounts of cleaning goods such as disinfecting wipes, hand sanitizer, and laundry soap for personal use.
  • Depending on your accommodations, you may need to bring your own bedding, such as sheets, pillows, or duvet.
  • If you have access to a kitchen, consider bringing basic cooking utensils, a small pot or skillet, a reusable water bottle, and dish soap for cleaning.

Food Items

As an Indian student, you will generally find food from other nations bland and flavorless. Also, getting used to the new meal will take some time.

So, keep enough Indian frozen food and snacks on hand for almost eight weeks to get you through the changeover period.

If you know how to cook, bring some Indian spices.

Medicines and Prescriptions

Medicines to take while traveling abroad from India are essential while a student is undergoing treatment. Carry a sufficient supply of prescription medications, as they may not be offered in the host nation. However, in such cases, students might seek advice from the local medical aid team. 

Local Currencies

Even though cards and virtual currencies are commonly accepted throughout the world, you should bring some local currency with you. Keep in a secure location/money belt.

Foreign currency is available at airport kiosks, money exchanges, banks, and other sites. Aside from cash, bring your international debit and credit cards.

Toiletries

  • Hairbrush/comb
  • Toothbrush
  • Deodorant
  • Razors
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Disposable hand towels
  • Contact lenses solution
  • Sunblock lotion
  • Makeup essentials 

Stationary

  • Notepads/Stationery Items
  • Essential college documents 
  • Study material 

Other Required Essentials

Some other required essentials that can be needed are:

  • Portable coffee pour-over
  • Instant coffee packets
  • Travel Insurance

Pre-Departure Checklist

  • Verify travel documents
  • Check airline details
  • Exchange currency or make sure you have access to money 
  • Learn about regional norms, basic language skills, and emergency contact numbers

Things Not to Carry While Traveling to Europe

You should take note of the following regulations while traveling to Europe:

  • Liquids in the cabin must be in a transparent plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1 liter. Each container should be at most 100 ml. Larger liquids should be packed in checked baggage, except for medicines and baby food.
  • Duty-free liquids purchased at airports or on airlines must remain sealed in the security bag provided at purchase until the final destination. Security personnel may open and reseal them if necessary, especially for connecting flights. Unsealed liquids won’t be allowed. 
  • Sharp objects like knives, scissors, and corkscrews are not allowed in cabin baggage. They should be packed in checked luggage.
  • Explosives, flammable items, fireworks, aerosol spray paint, acids, and other toxic substances are prohibited in both cabin and checked baggage.
  • No weapons of any kind are allowed on board aircraft.

How to Resist Urge to Overpacking

Make a packing list well before your vacation. Try packing only the essentials. Consider adaptable clothing items that can be combined to form multiple ensembles. Avoid packing stuff for hypothetical situations that may never arise. During your trip, a heavy bag will be a serious burden. Instead, you can plan to buy from the local European markets.

Tips to Packing Efficiently

  • Don't put it off, and get started as soon as possible
  • Pack appropriately for the weather
  • Do not strive to seize everything
  • Do not forget about any special or prohibited things
  • Ensure that you have all the necessary paperwork
  • Perform a last-minute inspection

A well-organized packing list for Indian students for Europe is vital for starting their study abroad experience in Europe. Students can securely plan their educational experience by considering seasonal fluctuations and flight regulations. Students can maximize their study experience by packing intelligently and focusing on basics while enjoying Europe's amazing academic options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What things should I carry and not carry while traveling to Europe from India?

When flying from India to Europe, bring necessary items such as travel documents, cash, seasonally appropriate clothing, prescription drugs, etc. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, restricted items, big or bulky objects, or items prohibited in Europe. 

How much cash should students carry to Europe?

There is a legal limit of €10,000. A declaration must be made if the foreign currency exceeds €10,000.  

What is not allowed to be carried to Europe from India?

Take note of the following things while traveling to Europe. Liquids in the cabin must be in transparent plastic bags with a max 1L capacity. Duty-free liquids remain sealed in the security bag. Sharp objects go in checked luggage. Contact your airline to check cabin baggage limits. Prohibited items include explosives, flammable items, and weapons.

How many luggage bags can Indian students carry to Europe on overseas flights from India?

The student fare allows for 2 pieces of check-in baggage weighing up to 23kg each. 

Akansha Semwal

Study Abroad Expert

Akansha Semwal is a content marketer at upGrad and has also worked as a social media marketer & sub-editor. Experienced in creating impressive Statement of Purpose, Essays, and LOR, she knows how to captivate the attention of Admissions Committee. Her research-driven;study-abroad articles helps aspirants to make the prudent decision. She holds a bachelor's & master's degree in Literature from the University of Delhi.

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