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Once you've organised your airfares and visas, it's time
to pack! Here's advice on what to take and what to leave behind.
Essentials
- Your curriculum vitae (known as a "résumé" in the US)
- Writing samples of high academic quality
- Photographs or slides of New Zealand and your home for talks you may
be asked to give
- Small souvenirs, i.e. craft/novelty items from New Zealand to be used
as gifts for colleagues and friends
- immunisation and medical records
Everyday items and goods
While most things are available in the US, you may not be able to get
the specific brands you are accustomed to. You can always get your family
and friends to send your favourite toothpaste, shampoo, soap or lollies
if desperately required.
 Electronics
Small electrical goods such as hair dryers and radios can be purchased
quite cheaply in the US. However, if you own a laptop, you may find it
worthwhile to bring it along.
Electrical specifications
The electric plug size in the US is different from NZ but you can buy
adapters there. The US voltage is 110 volts which may or may not be an
issue depending on what electrical items you want to bring.
If your computer does not operate at 110 volts, you need a transformer.
You will also need to buy the US telephone plugs and cords (if bringing
a printer) and an adapter plug.
The above items are readily available in the States.
Clothing
The United States experiences many different climates, so your clothing
needs will depend on the region of your destination. The US Northeast
tends to have cold winters and hot summers, while the West Coast maintains
a more temperate climate year round. You'll find the Southeast to
be humid while the heat of the Southwest is drier in nature. The vast
Midwest tends to have extreme weather conditions, with heavy snow in the
winter and long, dry summers.
Americans love their central heating, so you may often find that indoor
and outdoor temperatures are very different. However, student accommodation
may not always provide the latest heating/cooling systems. Be prepared
to layer clothing when living and studying on a university campus.
American students tend to dress in a relaxed, casual style. You may want
to devote most of your suitcase to comfortable, wash n' wear items,
rather than packing a large number of suits or dresses. Clothing is relatively
inexpensive in the States, and you will be able to find an outfit for
any occasion.
Send items in advance
If you will be staying for a few months, you could consider shipping
some goods prior to your departure. This will reduce your airline luggage
and excess baggage liability. Shipping (by sea) takes around 8-10 weeks.
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Frequently
asked questions
