Canada is one of the most livable countries in the world with a plethora of shopping centers and supermarkets where you can find everything that you need.

However, for long-distance travel, it is still very important to pack those essential, oftentimes costly items that you desperately rely on. Unsure what those items might be? This article will tell you which essential items we recommend packing when studying abroad in Canada – and Vancouver, specifically.

Figuring out what to leave and what to take with you is a confusing process, for this reason, a packing checklist might be a good solution.

Additionally, take into consideration that most airlines have weight restrictions. For carry-on baggage, the average is 10 kg or  22 lb. For checked luggage, the average is 20 kg or 50 lb, depending on the airline you are travelling with. Also, please review the baggage restrictions to make sure the weight and size are correct prior to travel.

Moreover, here are some tips on what you can bring and what you can buy in Vancouver, Canada:

Vancouver Climate

Vancouver has a moderate oceanic climate that is protected by mountains and warmed by ocean flow, making it one of the warmest cities in Canada. Also, Vancouver does have seasons, as a result, the weather can vary from warm around (20°– 30°) to cold around (10°– 0°), depending on the season.

Study abroad packing list

Try to be as practical as possible while packing, as it is not possible to bring every item you need. Here is a list of the most important things you cannot forget:

  • Official documentation (Passport, Cards, University documents, etc.)
  • Medical insurance papers or card
  • Canadian money: 200$ CAD for travel expenses or emergencies
  • Winter and Summer clothes
  • Travel adaptors and chargers for electrical devices
  • Credit or debit cards
  • Hygiene items (Toothbrush, Tissues, Creams, Cosmetics, etc.)
  • Personal items (Photographs, memories, etc.)
  • Medicines (if needed)

Immigration or official documents that you might need

Aside from everything else of the items and recommendations above. There are some immigration documents that are essential to bringing to a new country, especially as an international student.

Some of those documents are:

  • Passport (with a Canadian visa)
  • Bring any governmental ID from your country just in case due that you might not have any from Canada yet
  • Letter of Acceptance from your institution just in case
  • Driver’s license if you want
  • Study permit (You will most likely receive it when you arrive in Canada)
  • Work permit if you are coming specifically for that or if you have a practicum program (You will most likely receive it when you arrive in Canada)

What to buy when studying in Canada?

Not everything is going to make the plane. Because of this, we recommend buying the following in Canada:

  • Household products
  • Pillows and sheets
  • Appliances and utensils for cooking
  • Clothing
  • Food

What to pack when studying abroad in Canada?

Local retail stores and supermarkets in Vancouver

Some of the supermarkets or retail stores that are close to the Acsenda School of Management campus and have a good diversity of products are:

  • Safeway  (1766 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6G 1E2)
  • BestBuy (798 Granville St Suite 200, Vancouver, BC V6Z 3C3)
  • London Drugs ( 710 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1E4)
  • Whole Foods (1675 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6G 1C8)

Also, other supermarkets that are in other areas of the city but are really useful too are Real Canadian Superstore, Walmart, Loblaws, etc. Some of the drugstores that can help with medicines or personal care are:

In terms of clothing stores, there are many well-known ones worldwide, however, just in case you are not sure where to buy affordable clothing stuff; Vancouver offers the following:

There are many others as well, however, if you are interested in other types of clothes please look on the internet for clothing stores in Vancouver and check out the types you are looking for.

Therefore, for more help with anything prior to arrival, please contact Acsenda for more information.