Tips for Air Travel

When packing for your semester off-campus, you should visit the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) section for travelers.  It offers good advice on what you can and cannot carry on, especially as it pertains to the amount of liquids allowed in a carry-on bag.  You will want to keep in your carry-on bag any essential items that you must have with you upon arrival, as sometimes checked luggage is occasionally lost of delayed in transit.  We recommend you take the following with you in your carry-on bag(s):

• Passport

• Important documents such as letter of admission into the program and fee letter from Whitman (if applicable)

• Program contact information

• Whitman emergency contact information

• Your money and/or ATM/debit/credit card

• Prescription medications

• Items you will need during flight such as contact lens case, warm jacket, etc.

• Change of clothing if your luggage is lost

It is important to remember that airlines do have weight limits on both carry-on and checked luggage.  You should consult with your airline to see what their weight and size restrictions are.  You should definitely try to travel light.  Bring as little as you can and never more than you can carry comfortably.  You will have to carry your own luggage and may need to go up and down stairs with them.  Keep in mind that you will undoubtedly accumulate things during your stay that you will want to bring home.  Shipping can be expensive, so it is wise to leave some space in your luggage or bring a small duffel bag that can be empty in your luggage on the way over that you can fill upon your return.