Packing Tips

Different ways of packing work for different people. View our suggestions below and explore online to find what works best for you and your needs. Most importantly, focus on necessity.

Make a List

Start by making a list of your packing needs. Focus on must-have’s and items you would most like to bring.

Pack Smart

There are various ways to maximize space and keep luggage organized while packing. Some suggestions include:

• Packing in cubes or compression bags
• Laying clothes flat
• Rolling clothes
• Stuffing smaller items into larger items (such as socks into shoes)

• Focus on essentials. Don’t bring what you won’t need. Pack the most essential first (like toiletries, medications, sturdy shoes) and work your way out. Pack the least essential items last and think carefully about whether you will truly need them on your trip.

Think in Layers

The weather changes from place to place depends on the time of year at which your program takes place. Pack in a way that allows you to layer up for warmth, or de-layer to cool off. For example, a cotton long sleeve shirt, a sweater over top, a jacket and scarf for a fall program gives you plenty of ways to adjust your temperature as you go through the day.

Wear Heavier Clothes

Consider wearing heavier items, like jackets and boots, while traveling to save weight in your suitcase.

Label Your Bags

Clearly label your bags with your name, phone number, and email address. Consider adding a secondary form of identification inside your bag in case the outer label is lost. We recommend purchasing a sturdy luggage label, but if you need one at the airport, most airline desks offer paper labels you can quickly fill out and attach to your bag.

Put Your Valuables in Your Carry-On

Don’t put any highly valuable items in checked bags (e.g., expensive jewelry, important documents, medications, irreplaceable items, etc.).

Know Your Airlines Policy

Baggage policies can vary significantly between airlines. Always check your airline’s specific baggage rules before your trip to avoid surprises.

Baggage Policy

You are permitted one piece of checked baggage. Even if your airline allows more than one, you may only bring one. Additionally, you can bring one carry-on suitcase and one small personal item (like a purse or laptop bag). Weight allowances vary by airline, so the allowed weight and dimensions of both your checked bag and carry-on bag will depend upon your airline(s). Your trip might include flights on multiple, separate airlines. Please check all airline baggage policies for your trip and ensure that your baggage meets the weight allowances for the airlines included on your route.

Be Prepared

By understanding baggage policies and preparing ahead of time, you can minimize stress and enhance your travel experience. Always check with your airline for the most current information regarding baggage regulations.

Types of Baggage

There are two types of baggage: carry-on bags and checked bags.

• A carry-on bag is a small bag or suitcase that you can bring onto the airplane. Most airlines allow one carry-on bag and one personal item (a personal item is a small bag, like a backpack, purse or laptop bag). Dimensions for a carry-on typically range from 20-22 inches in length, but depend upon the airline.
• A checked bag is a larger suitcase stored in the aircraft’s cargo hold. You must drop these bags off at an airline counter or kiosk before boarding (usually when checking in).

Baggage Allowances

Each airline has specific weight limits and size restrictions for both carry-on and checked baggage. Checked bags typically range from 50-70 lbs (23-31 kgs) while carry-on bags usually can’t exceed 20-30 lbs (9-13 kgs) – it depends on the airline. For size and weight restrictions, check your airline’s website for specifics to avoid extra fees.

**Note: The YSEALI Academic Fellows Program only allows for 1 piece of checked luggage (23kgs/50 lbs).**

Fees and Charges

Many airlines charge for checked baggage, especially on domestic flights. Fees can range from $25 - $50 for the first bag, with increasing fees for additional bags. We cover any costs associated with the first checked bag (you are only allowed one), but if your baggage exceeds the weight or size limits, expect to pay excess baggage fees which can be significantly higher. Some airlines charge additional fees for sports equipment, musical instruments, or oversized items. Check with your airline for specific policies.

**Note: The YSEALI Academic Fellows Program only allows for 1 piece of checked luggage (23kgs/50 lbs).**

Lost, Damaged or Delayed Baggage

If your luggage is lost, damaged or delayed, report it to your airline’s baggage service desk at the airport immediately upon arrival. Most airlines have procedures for filing claims for lost or damaged luggage. Be sure to keep your baggage claim ticket and any relevant receipts.

 **Note: The YSEALI Academic Fellows Program is not responsible for lost or damaged luggage.**

Claiming Checked Baggage

After your flight, proceed to the baggage claim area to collect your checked bags. If you bag doesn’t arrive, immediately report it to the airline’s baggage service desk.

 **Note: The YSEALI Academic Fellows Program is not responsible for lost or damaged luggage.**