Packing Suggestions
This isn't a complete list, this is just what stood out for me. If you're interested in exactly what I took, check out my packing list. I'd recommend leaving a lot of stuff off though. I wish I had packed a lot lighter. The less you take, the happier you'll be. Every pound you take is one more you'll have to lug through airports and train stations. And believe me, you will buy a lot of stuff that you want to bring back.
What to take?
- Essentials
- Passport & Plane tickets
- VISA ATM Card - Definitely the easiest way to get money
- Gifts for Host Family
- Toiletries
- Condoms/Lubricant - You will not be able to find them easily in Japan. Better safe than sorry.
- First-Aid Kit - You do not want to have to go shopping in a language you can't read when you get sick.
- Prescription Medications - Don't forget them, but remember the legal aspect.
- Other Basics
- Umbrella - The rainy season is just that.
- Japanese books and resources
- Pocket phrase book - You'll only use it for the first couple of weeks, but it makes life so much easier. I strongly recommend the Lonely Planet Phrase book
- Pocket English/Japanese Dictionary - You will live or die by this book. Make damn sure you know how to use it.
- Pocket Notebook & Pen - You own notes are far more valuable than anyone else's. And there are some words which just aren't in the dictionaries!
- Solid Dictionaries - For when your pocket dictionary just isn't enough. And believe me, it often isn't.
- Computer Related
- Blank DVD's (a few) - I used them to mail copies of my pictures back.
- Thumb drive - It really helps to be able to move files around. They'll give you a laptop, but what good does that do you if you can't get your files off?
- Extras
- Alarm - You'll need to wake up on your own for class. I took my cell phone for this purpose. I needed it once I got back anyway, so why not?
- Camera - You really do not want to be without one. Make sure it's a somewhat nice one too; you will take a LOT of pictures. (4500 for me!)
- Books to read - You will have difficultly finding books in English, though the university library has some. The more you take the more you carry, so I recommend magazines that you can throw out when you're done with them.
- Backpack, Notebook, Pen/Pencil(s) - You do have classes after all...
- Pictures of your family - There are times you just want to be reminded of home.
- Fold up duffel - So that you can bring some stuff back.
What not to take?
- Drugs - See Law Primer Section
- Essentials
- Traveler's Checks - Really quite useless. I returned with exactly the same number I left with.
- Clothes
- Take as few clothes as possible. The weight adds up fast!
- Other Basics
- 1 light jacket for Fuji - You will only need a jacket if you are going to Fuji. (Or are planning on sitting in the common room after someone turned down the air conditioning to 19 degree C. Burr!)
- Japanese books and resources
- Take only what you need. Books are heavy and you probably won't use them.