Student Exchange Programme (SEP) Packing List
Let me share with you the packing list that I was using for myself while preparing for my SEP to Sweden. You can use this and adjust accordingly depending on amount of baggage weight you have available and the kind of weather you are expecting to face. For me, I have tailored the packing list in light of the winter weather that I was going to experience in Sweden. If people need helpful hints on skin care products, they can check them out here!
Before you start to pack, there are 2 things you may want to note:
- The maximum size luggage you can bring is about 28 inches.
- If you have 2 luggages, try to pack your items evenly between the 2 bags so that if one bag goes missing, you will still have your second luggage.
PACKING LIST:
1 | Toiletries |
|
2 | School items |
|
3 | Electronics |
|
4 | Clothes |
|
5 | Footwear |
|
6 | Important items, documents & cards |
|
7 | Bags |
|
8 | Emergency items |
|
9 | Vaccinations |
|
10 | Food (Up to you really) |
|
11 | Miscellaneous |
|
12 | Optional Comfort Items |
|
13 | Remember to do SAF Overseas Notification (for guys) | Notify if less than 6 months.
If more than 6 months, apply for exit permit. |
I would also like to highlight certain items that could potentially be a life-saver!
Items | Why You Need It? |
Universal / European Socket Adapters | If you are going to Europe, I would recommend the Europe-specific adapters over the universal ones. While they serve the same purpose, the Europe-specific ones can fit into the socket better without the risk of it falling out compared to the universal ones due to its circular cover. See here for picture. |
Multiplug extension cord | This is very much a necessity. Get the ones from Singapore, as those sold in Europe are only meant for their 2 pin plugs. If you buy one there, you’ll need 4 adapters to go with it, which is absolutely ridiculous. |
Clothes | Do read up online on layering so that you know what to buy. General rule is that the outermost jacket and your boots should be windproof and waterproof. Quantities are up to personal preference. |
International Driving Permit | I prepared this in Singapore for S$20, but honestly, it might not be necessary as our driving license is in English. Still, it would be good to have. If you would like to read up on the application process, you can see here. |
Sling bag / Small backpack | This is a MUST-BRING! If not, you will find yourself lugging your huge backpack as you explore the place. Get a small backpack/sling bag, and leave your backpack in the hostel as you walk around. |
Phone IMEI Number | This is your phone’s unique identification number. It’s to help you track down if that phone is really yours. However it may not be important when you are overseas. |
Vaccinations | Optional. I recommend at least those standard travel vaccines. Most guys should be fine for tetanus as you took a shot during National Service. |
Food | Bring whatever you want. Personally, Campbell soup was a lifesaver whenever I was saving money. Bakkwa for Chinese New Year is a plus too! (Check the country’s regulations first for the food that you bring in.) |
Vacuum / Thermal Flask | EXTREMELY IMPORTANT! Helps keep your hot and cold drinks the way they should be. Otherwise, bring a normal water bottle along with you as most places charge you for water in Europe (you will be drinking tap water very frequently). |
Flexible Small Lock | Something like this would be very useful. At times you might find yourself staying in a hostel whereby you need to either rent their locks or use your own lock for their lockers. I found this lock to be one of the most versatile ones as it fits into a wide variety of different lock holes. |
Router & Ethernet cable | Another item I would deem as necessary. Your hostel may not provide it and it may be expensive to buy there. A simple one in Singapore may cost around S$25-30, while the ones sold in Sweden may cost at least S$50. |
Rice Cooker |
Extremely useful for cooking rice and it can also double as a steamboat hot pot (Singapore style!) I bought a Sona SRC2072 model for myself for $42.90 from Courts. It’s a small one that weighed about 2 kg and can cook servings for 2-3 people. |
Luggage weighing scale | Very useful to have before flying off at the end. |
Offline Google Map and Translate | Useful to have before arriving at a foreign place. |
Have fun packing 🙂