To Pack or Not to Pack

Get ready, it's time to pack your life into a suitcase. Believe it or not, it can be done. Packing is stressful, but it doesn't need to be. It's all about packing smart.  Beware it will take compromise and a little practice. We have created a list of the ultimate necessities, and included some do's and dont's to help. Now it's time to put on some tunes, stretch, and get packing.

I can bring how many bags?! 
Depending on your program and the airline you are flying on, you are limited by the number and weight of bags you can bring. If you want to see an example of airline baggage restrictions, head to the Alitalia site for more details.

  • DTW: Europe Students
    Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but all DTW students are permitted one, and only one suitcase! The reason for this is your inter-country travel. When flying between countries within Europe, you are only permitted to have one suitcase weighing up to 44 pounds.

    *1 Suitcase weighing 44 pounds
    *1 Carry-on
     
  • Discover Italy and Discover France Students
    Students participating in Discover Italy and Discover France are permitted two suitcases weighing up to 50 pounds each and one carry-on.

    *2 Suitcases, each weighing 50 pounds
    *1 Carry-on
     
  • Short-Term Programs
    Seeing as you won’t be gone for an extended period of time, limiting yourself to one suitcase and one carry-on is the best recommendation we can make. To find out the weight limit for your flight, head to the airline’s website for details.

What if my suitcase if over the weight limit? 
If your suitcase is over the weight limit, prepare yourself for some hefting fees. To avoid running into this problem, weigh your suitcases at home before you head to the airport.

What should I pack in my carry-on? 

  • Wallet
  • Passport
  • Flight Information
  • Campus Address/Welcome Letter
  • Entertainment for the Flight (Book, MP3, etc)
  • Extra Change of Clothes
  • Contact Case/Glasses (If applicable)
Luggage. Photo by Sean Corcoran