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  2. Preparing for program
  3. Packing essentials

Packing essentials

Check your uniform requirements, listed in the travel & flights section of your Resort Leaders profile prior to departure.

Last updated June 15, 2026

Check your uniform requirements, listed in the travel & flights section of your Resort Leaders profile prior to departure.

Checked baggage

  • Trainers/Casual shoes - 2 pairs
  • Formal shoes - 1 pair
  • Shorts/leggings - 3 pairs
  • Jeans - 1 pair
  • Underwear/socks - 10 pairs
  • Swimwear - 2 pairs
  • Warm hoodie
  • Raincoat
  • T-shirts - 5 minimum
  • Watch
  • Adapter
  • Toiletries
  • Reminder: Label your suitcase on the inside and outside and use only TSA-approved locks

Hand luggage

  • Your passport & J-1 Visa
  • Visa paperwork - DS-2019 form
  • SEVIS receipt
  • Insurance card
  • Flight itinerary
  • A copy of your visa sponsor job offer
  • A copy of your police check and medical form
  • Any travel tickets for your departure and arrival (train/bus tickets)
  • A copy of your onward travel information printed out from your Resort Leaders profile
  • Mask that covers your nose and mouth
  • Supporting letter from your visa sponsor only if you are arriving later than the date on your DS-2019 form

Baggage allowance

For overseas flights you can bring two pieces of luggage and one personal item 

  • Check-in bag: 1 x 23 kg (height x depth x width = max. 158cm)
  • Hand luggage 1 x 8 kg (55cm x 35cm x 25cm) + 1 personal item (handbag/laptop case), always check online

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Arrival in the US
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Customs form
On the flight, you may be given a customs form. Some US airports have you complete them electronically. Listen to the inflight announcements for directions.
Pre-departure COVID-19 testing
You need a negative COVID-19 test before flying to the US. Please visit the CDC website for the most up-to-date information.
Things to keep in mind before you leave
Check with your mobile phone company to see what is available on your contract before you head out. Look into costs to purchase a SIM card prior to coming to the United States. You can also…
Travel to the US
Flights will be arranged for you as part of your program. If you are unsure about your flight arrangements then check the ‘Travel and Flights’ section of your Resort Leaders profile.