Heading to Sweden for Studies? Here’s What to Pack (and What to Leave Behind)

Sweden, the land of fjords, Vikings, and innovation, attracts international students with its top-ranked universities and exciting culture. But before you hop on that plane to Scandinavia, there’s the crucial task of packing. Since Sweden tends to, at times, experience 4 seasons in one day, it’s vital for students to arrive in the country well prepared. This blog will be your one-stop guide for your packing list for Sweden, helping you navigate the transition from your current home to your new student digs, all while keeping your luggage manageable. Read on to know more!

Packing List Sweden: Essentials Checklist

Like several other European countries, you don’t need to add everything to your packing list for Sweden. For one, carrying extra baggage ultimately results in you paying extra charges for additional kilos. So packing light is the way to go, you can buy the rest of the items when you move there. 

Given below is the list of essentials your packing list in Sweden must include:

Documents

Here’s a list of important documents that you need to keep in your carry-ons:

• Passport (with validity extending past your stay) & copies
• Student visa & copies
• Academic transcripts
• Acceptance letter from your university
• Proof of health insurance
• Transcript of Records
• Immunization Records
• Bank Statements

Also Read: Studying in Style: The Essential Student Packing List for France

Clothing

Sweden has four distinct seasons, so you’ll need to set your packing list for Sweden accordingly. Here’s a breakdown of the essential clothing items for each season:

Winter (December – February)

• Innerwear: Thermals (tops and bottoms) for layering during the coldest months.
• Mid-layers: Wool or fleece sweaters and sweatshirts to keep you warm.
• Outerwear: A heavy-duty water/windproof winter coat with a hood and a high collar.
• Bottoms: Warm, thick jeans or snow pants are ideal.
• Accessories: A warm hat, scarf, and gloves to protect yourself from the cold, and a face mask/neck warmer for extra warmth.

Spring (March-May)

• Innerwear: Lighter thermals or regular undershirts
• Mid-layers: Several long-sleeved shirts, light sweaters, and a cardigan
• Outerwear: A lighter jacket (denim or rain)
• Bottoms: Jeans, cords, and leggings
• Accessories: A scarf and hat for cooler days

Summer (June – August)

• Tops: T-shirts, tank tops, and light blouses
• Bottoms: Shorts, skirts, and light-coloured jeans
• Dresses: A casual summer dress for warmer days
• Shoes: Sandals or comfortable sneakers
• Accessories: A hat and sunglasses to help protect yourself from the sun.

Autumn (September – November)

• Innerwear: Thermals for cool weather
• Mid-layers: Pack various long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and a light jacket
• Outerwear: A raincoat for the fall weather, and a heavier jacket for later in the season
• Bottoms: Jeans, cords, and leggings
• Accessories: A scarf, hat, and gloves for cooler days

Electronics

Here’s a list of electronic gadgets that must go in your packing list Sweden:

• Laptop & charger
• Phone & charger
• Universal power adapter (since Sweden uses a two-pronged plug, you’ll need an adapter to charge your electronics)
• Converter plugs
• Headphones/earphones
• Portable charger 

Personal Care

Here’s a list of specific personal care items you should carry as an international student to Sweden. Make sure these items are travel-size as you can easily purchase them once you land in the country:

• Toothbrush & Toothpaste
• Shampoo & conditioner
• Body wash or soap
• Deodorant
• Razor & Shaving Cream
• Feminine hygiene products
• Sunscreen (especially for summer)
• Lip balm
• Nail clippers
• Hand sanitizer
• Makeup (if you wear it)
• Hair styling products
• Contact lens solution
• Laundry detergent (enough for a few washes)

Medications: 

• Pack any prescription medications you need in their original containers and a doctor’s note in English.

Travel-sized first-aid kit: 

• Pack basic supplies like bandaids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers (consult a doctor for what medication to bring specifically)
• Cosmetics (face wash, moisturizer, etc.)

Miscellaneous

Other than the above items, it’s wise to carry the following miscellaneous items in your packing list Sweden:

• Reusable water bottle
• Lock (for your dorm room/apartment)
• Small backpack
• Photos and mementos from home
• Sleep mask
• Swedish phrasebook
• Reusable shopping bags
• Small sewing kit
• Umbrella

Given below is a downloadable packing list Sweden checklist for essential items to bring when moving to the country as an international student:

Study Abroad Packing List for Sweden: Travel Budget

Since Sweden is a largely cashless society, most transactions are done with debit cards or mobile payments. Carrying a large amount of cash might not be very practical. But a general rule of thumb estimates that you should carry 20% of your total budget as cash and the rest 80% in card. Also, customs states that any amount above SEK 10,000 should be declared first.

Also Read: Pack Smart, Study Hard: The Essential Packing List for Studying Abroad in Italy

What NOT to Add to Your Packing List for Sweden

Here’s a list of generally banned/prohibited items you should avoid adding to your Sweden packing list:

1. Weapons and ammunition (firearms, explosives, knives, swords, and other dangerous items)
2. Narcotics and illegal drugs (all recreational drugs)
3. Endangered species products (items made from ivory, rhino horn, and other protected animals)
4. Counterfeit goods (fake designer clothing, electronics, and other products)
5. Meat and dairy products (maximum of 10 kg of meat products and 1 kg of milk or milk products)
6. Cash exceeding a certain amount (declare any amount of cash exceeding EUR 10,000 when entering or leaving the European Union)

Baggage Limit for International Students Going to Sweden

The specific baggage allowance for international students moving to Sweden will depend on the airline you are flying with. Most airlines allow for one checked bag and one carry-on bag and charge extra for additional luggage. However, here are some general guidelines:

Luggage Type	Dimensions	Weight
Carry on	55cm x 40cm x 23cm	7-10 kg
Checked	158cm (length + width + height)	20-23 kg

Packing List for Sweden: Last Minute Tips

Here’s a last-minute checklist to help you determine that your packing list Sweden is complete:

1. Make a copy of your important documents (passport, visa, plane tickets, insurance) and leave a copy with a trusted friend or family member at home.
2. Download a Swedish phrasebook app or learn some basic Swedish phrases before you go. This will help you communicate with locals.
3. Research Swedish customs and etiquette. Understanding cultural norms will help you avoid any misunderstandings.
4. Pack light! You can always buy things you need once you arrive in Sweden.
5. Leave some room in your luggage for souvenirs! Sweden has many beautiful and unique items to bring back home.

Relevant Reads:

Konnichiwa! The Essential Packing List to Japan for International Students	Packing List for Ireland: Know What You Need to Carry for Your Studies Abroad
Ready, Set, Deutschland! Your Essential Packing List For Germany	Europe Travel Checklist: What to Pack Before for Your Trip?
Don’t Want to Be a Siesta Slacker? Then Here’s the Only Packing List for Spain You Need!	Study Abroad Packing List for UK for International Students

FAQs

We hope this blog gave you all the information regarding what to include in your packing list in Sweden. For more such content on student life abroad, explore Leverage Edu’s study abroad resources page.