Planning your suitcase for a trip to the other side of the world is no easy task, especially since it's not just a weekend trip.
Before starting to pack everything in their closet, exchange students need to think practically and take a few things into consideration, such as the climate of their chosen destination and the activities they will be practicing. Since we're talking about a study exchange, comfortable clothes and shoes are always good choices.
It's not necessary, for example, to pack a tuxedo or a long dress, but a dress shirt, whether for work or a more formal event, is a good choice. Also go for clothes in neutral colors, such as black, grey and white, as they are easier to match and can be used as a joker.
However, luggage isn't just about clothes. Many students also like to take some food and other items to ease their homesickness. But this requires attention, as Australia has strict border rules. To make the exchange student's trip easier, we have prepared a general guide what you can and can't take to the land of the kangaroos.
Hand luggage
- A maximum of 1 liter divided into 100 ml containers is allowed. Attention! You may not carry a 200 ml bottle with half the liquid. Bottles must have a maximum capacity of 100 ml;
- Cash is allowed. In the meantime, any amount over AUD 10,000 must be declared;
- Aerosols and gels are not allowed;
- Sporting goods, kitchen utensils, tools and other items with sharp edges or points capable of injuring a person are not allowed.
Checked baggage
Not allowed:
- Perishable foods, such as fruit, vegetables and meat. If you want to take something with you, give preference to industrialized and factory-sealed food;
- Weapons in general, including those for self-defense, such as pepper spray and stun guns;
- Steroids;
- Drugs;
- Items made of wood (only allowed if they are free of bark, insects and insect damage);
- Sedatives from the benzodiazepine group (e.g. diazepam, lorazepam);
- Pornography;
- Leather and animal skin products that have not been properly treated and cleaned.
It's allowed, but with limits:
- Other medicines, including sedatives and hormones, are allowed as long as they are accompanied by a prescription in the passenger's name translated into English and in quantities not exceeding three months;
- General merchandise purchased at Duty Free that does not exceed the value of $900 per adult and $450 per child;
- 2.25 liters of alcohol (over 18s);
- 25 cigarettes (unit) or 25 grams of tobacco (over 18s).
Incoming Passenger Card
All travelers entering Australia via the airport must fill out a document declaring the items they are carrying. The form must be filled out in English, and this document will be presented with the passport to an immigration officer before the passenger picks up their luggage.
See this document translated into Portuguese here.
Declare!
It is important to always declare what you are bringing into a country. If the object is prohibited (excluding illegal or criminal items), the agents will just discard it. But if you don't declare it, a fine will be imposed, which must be paid on the spot.
Attention! Each airline has specific rules on what travelers can and cannot carry. So check your airline's website before you board so you don't miss out.
See also: What to take on long flights? Take note of these tips for a more comfortable journey
