Find out what climate / weather you might expect when you reach your destination and pack your clothing accordingly. To avoid carrying too much of the wrong type of clothing, consider packing things which are comfortable and look good together so that you can layer them if it is cool. It is helpful to carry things, particularly under garments, which can be easily washed out and hung to dry. Don't forget your washing items <toiletries> or cosmetics. While there is an abundance of such items available here, you may find shopping for something similar to the items you are accustomed to more than a bit daunting!

You will need to carry your passport at all times. Keep this in a money belt or hidden pocket with most of your cash and traveler's cheques <checks>. It is unwise to carry large amounts of cash and only small amounts should be in your purse or wallet.

Be certain that, in a separate location, you keep photocopies of your passport and traveler's checks and 8 to 10 extra passport-sized photographs which could be required in an emergency. Should these items, your cash or checks be lost or stolen, you should report it to the police immediately. Next, you should contact the nearest Indian Embassy or High Commission. 

If you are taking medication under a doctor's order, be certain to carry enough with you to last as long as you will need it. You may also want to carry a letter from your physician describing your condition, should you need to visit a doctor or hospital while you are in the U.S. or if your condition is chronic.

If yours is an extended stay, bring recipes for some of your favorite dishes. Read more in our section on Food.

A small but useful tip in preparing to come to the U.S. for more than a few weeks, is to purchase some small, inexpensive items which are uniquely Indian. You want things which will not be too heavy, fragile or take up too much room in your bags. You will be glad to have something like this to present to a host or hostess, for example. Depending upon where you live and with whom you associate, you are likely to find Americans who want to invite you into their homes for meals and celebrations; especially at festive times in the Judeo/Christian year. Be advised that it is the custom in the States to open a gift in front of the giver and to show one's appreciation at that moment.

A Medical Note : There are many varieties of "over-the-counter" <non-prescription> medicines available in the U.S. If you are unsure of what you need, you should go to a pharmacy and speak with the chemist <pharmacist or druggist>, describe your condition and let him or her suggest something for your ailment. It is also suggested that you carry an extra pair of eye glasses, should one pair be lost or break. 

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