Departure Checklist

One to Two Weeks Before Departure:

Pack Your Bags:

Review the packing list in the Ayusa Student Handbook and start packing! Do research online about the local climate and weather so you can modify the packing list for your specific placement area. Make sure to pack your dictionary! Here are some packing tips:

Lay everything out that you want to take. Put half of it away. Now pack what is left over. Take less than the minimum you think you need.

Pack all of your bags then carry them down your street. Walk up and down the stairs in your house. If you struggle, take some things out! Remember that you will need to be able to carry your own luggage when you travel to your program.

Place your name and address both inside and outside of each piece of luggage.

Luggage Limitations:

Requirements for checking baggage differ based on country destination and airline carrier. More information on this topic will be provided during your Ayusa Pre-Departure Orientation.

Gifts For Your Host Family:

It is a good idea to bring a small gift for your host family. Appropriate gifts are T-shirts, hats, pens from your home town/state, photo calendars or anything that is American and represents where you are from. The gift should be an expression of appreciation for hosting you, and does not need to be expensive. If you know your host family's hobbies and interests, select gifts with this information in mind.

International Calling Card:

Buy an international calling card that you can use in another country. It is important that you take this with you at the start of your program in case you need to call Intrax or the overseas organization about a flight delay. This will also allow you to call your parents upon arrival in your host country to let them know you arrived safely!

One to Two Days Before Departure:

Departure/ Flight Confirmation:

You are responsible for reconfirming your flight with the airlines 72 hours prior to your departure. You can find your airline's phone number for confirmation on the internet or in the yellow pages.

Travel Documents

Before you leave for the airport, make sure you have the following documents with you. Keep them in your carry-on bag.

  • Flight Itinerary and Tickets
  • Passport
  • Visa
  • International Student ID Card
  • Health Insurance Card
  • International Calling Card
  • Intrax and Overseas Organization Emergency Contact Information
  • Host Family Information

Arrival Logistics:

  • Upon arrival in your final destination abroad you will be met by a representative from the local organization or your host family. Additional details will be provided in the Intrax Pre-Departure Orientation.

Flight delays:

Please remember ...

  • If your arrival to your final destination airport is delayed and you are still in the U.S., call Ayusa.
  • If your arrival to your final destination airport is delayed and you are outside of the U.S., call the overseas organization emergency contact