Before You Travel - What to Bring

Dictionary: You will be provided with all required books and materials needed during the Institute. However, you might want to bring a translation dictionary to assist you with your use of English.

Electrical Appliances: The standard electrical system in the United States is alternating current, 60 cycles, 120 volts. If you bring electrical equipment (such as hairdryer, shaver, computer), be sure it is compatible or bring an adapter. You might want to bring a battery-operated alarm clock.

Dress: Summer weather in Delaware is often hot and quite humid, (but there can be periods of rain as well). Generally, it is best to wear clothing made of cotton rather than clothing made of wool or synthetic fiber. It is also best to wear loose fitting clothing which can “breath” rather than tight clothing. In the Rocky Mountain area, you might experience some cooler temperatures.

Dress at universities is decidedly informal, particularly during the summer. Professors, for example, seldom wear jackets or neck-ties. Students are frequently seen wearing short-pants and t-shirts. Although jeans are socially appropriate both in and out of the classroom, they are often avoided during the daytime on exceptionally hot days. You will want to bring at least one outfit to wear at more formal social events. It is very important that you bring with you at least one pair of comfortable walking shoes.

At all times appropriate non-western wear is always acceptable.

Luggage: Please pack lightly. Generally, airlines permit travelers to/from North America to check two suitcases each weighing no more than 22kg. But, you check with your airline for exact limitations. Inside your larger suitcase, it would be advisable to bring a small collapsible bag to use during our study trips.

In addition to your checked baggage, airlines generally permit one to carry a small bag and one personal item (e.g. a purse or small back pack) aboard the plane. We strongly encourage you to carry with you a few days clothing and other essentials in case your bag is delayed in transit.

Medicine: If you require any prescription medications, please bring these with you on the aircraft. If you are under doctor's care for any condition, you might want to bring a letter from your physician describing your condition and treatment regime in case you need to see a doctor while you are in the United States.

Money: You will receive a quite ample cash allowance which will cover your meals and incidental expenses, allow you to purchase books (beyond those required for the course, which will be provided to you), have some fun, and still allow you to take some gifts home. In the past, however, some visitors have wanted to make more frequent shopping trips. If you are such a person, you might want to bring additional money or an ATM, credit, or debit card-- but this is totally up to you. If you do bring money, do not bring a great deal of cash. It is safer to bring traveler's checks. If you do bring money, do note that foreign currency cannot be converted in Newark; one must travel to Wilmington (about a 45 minute drive) to convert money.

Toiletries: Although you will be able to purchase toiletries locally, you might not be able to find the brand you enjoy using. Therefore, you should bring an ample supply of toiletries such as:

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss and other dental hygiene items
• Soap
• Shampoo, conditioner, and other hair care items
• Antiperspirant/deodorant
• Razor and shaving cream (if appropriate)
• Sun screen lotion

Because of the humidity, there may be some days when you will want to bathe twice. Please plan accordingly.

Valuables: Although the UD campus and Newark are generally safe, neither the US government nor the University of Delaware can guarantee the safety of any valuables you might bring. Therefore, you should leave expensive and extravagant things at home.