Packing List for Indian Interns Going Abroad

Over-packing is the most common mistake Indian students make. Here is a practical, tested list — with notes on what to buy in India vs what to get when you arrive.

The Documents Bag (Carry-On, Always)

Electronics

• ✓ Universal travel adapter — Indian Type D plugs dont work in most countries. Buy a multi-country adapter (Rs. 400–800 on Amazon India). Non-negotiable.
• ✓ Laptop (in carry-on, never checked)
• ✓ Phone charger + power bank
• ✓ USB-C hub or dock if working remotely — many European offices use single-monitor setups requiring your own hub
• ✓ Noise-cancelling earphones — great for flights and open offices
• ✗ Skip heavy camera equipment — phone cameras are excellent; buy if you decide you need it

Professional Clothes

Check your companys dress code before packing. Most European startups and tech companies are smart-casual. Finance and consulting expect formal.

• 3–4 professional shirts/blouses (one formal, rest smart-casual)
• 2 pairs of professional trousers or smart jeans
• 1 blazer (doubles for evenings out)
• Comfortable professional shoes — you will walk more than in India
• 1 set of formal (for networking events, client meetings)

Tip: European H&M, Zara, and Uniqlo are cheaper than India in some markets. If going to UK/Germany/Netherlands, you can buy extra work clothes when you arrive.

Clothing for the Climate

Pack for your specific destinations season:

• Europe (Apr–Sep): Light layers, a light jacket, one raincoat. Evenings get cold even in summer.
• Europe (Oct–Mar): Warm coat is essential. Thermal underlayers. Waterproof boots. Do not underestimate European winters if you are used to Indian weather.
• Dubai / Southeast Asia: Light, breathable fabrics. Offices are aggressively air-conditioned — bring a cardigan for indoors.
• Japan / Korea: Depends on season. Check carefully — winters are genuinely cold, summers are humid.

Health and Personal Care

• Prescription medications (3+ month supply) with pharmacy labels
• Basic first aid kit (paracetamol, antacids, ORS sachets — familiar Indian brands)
• Sunscreen SPF 50+ (expensive abroad, bring from India)
• Your preferred hair and skin products — South Asian hair types not well-served in European stores
• Sanitary products (Indian brands not available abroad; international brands are expensive)
• Mosquito repellent for Southeast Asia / tropical destinations

Food from India (Seriously Useful)

You will miss Indian food. Most airports allow dry food items out of India:

• MTR / MDH masala packets (compact, long shelf life)
• Instant dal makhani / rasam powder
• Your preferred instant noodle brand
• Dry snacks (chakli, mathri, chivda) for first weeks
• Pickle packets (small, sealed)

Note: Do not bring fresh produce, dairy, or meat — usually confiscated at customs. Check your destinations customs rules on dry goods too (Australia is strict; EU is lenient).

What to Buy on Arrival

• Local SIM card (airport SIMs are expensive — buy from a local shop)
• Laundry detergent, dish soap, household basics
• Hangers and any household items your accommodation lacks
• Thick winter coat if going to Europe in winter — buy second-hand on Vinted or Depop to save 60–80%

Luggage Size Guide

For a 3-month internship, one checked bag (23kg) + one cabin bag (7–10kg) is the right amount. Do not check a second bag — you will not need it and it costs Rs. 3,000–6,000 extra.

If going for 1–2 months, many students manage with carry-on only and do laundry regularly. European Airbnbs and student housing always have washing machines.