Packing List
and what to do with your laptop
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A semester or year stay in Russia requires considerable planning. If you will be spending winter months in Russia, luggage can quite easily become unwieldy. Keep two important points in mind: a) airline restrictions, and b) you will probably bring souvenirs back. Keep in mind as well that nearly all of what we recommend bringing below is recommended just so that you will have it when you arrive without having to look for places to buy it, sort through brands you likely don't know, etc.
1. Weight Restrictions in Russia (back to top)
At this time international flights are restricted to two checked bags (not to exceed 50 lbs in total), one carry on bag, and one "personal item." These restrictions are strictly enforced. Charges for overages vary by airline, but outrageous generally describes them. "Personal items" can be anything small and light from a purse to a laptop in its case. This should be obvious, but do not pack your laptop in your check-in luggage!
For those on domestic Russian flights, the limit is 20 kg of checked baggage (44 lbs) and 10 kg of carry on. They will charge per kilogram over this limit. For those who will be switching planes in Moscow (say, to Irkutsk or Valdivostok), you should buy your domestic and international tickets together - preferably from the same airline. If the tickets are unrelated you may be charged for baggage overage. Most flights originating from Europe are also applicable to this same restriction.
The train has a theoretical limit of 35 kg, but it is more a question of whether it fits in the compartment. Remember that in 2nd class trains, there are three other people with considerable luggage. If your trip will be only a few hours, you may not have much problem, but Russia is a big country with train trips that sometimes take a week or more.
You may want to make a quick list of things you use each day and decide which you can live without. Most things are now available in Russia, but if you are brand-conscious, you may want to bring a good stock with you. It's also good to have enough necessities that you won’t have to spend for your first week shopping.
Those interested in shipping themselves extra things: we do not recommend it. Shipping to Russia is slow, customs is a nightmare (and recently instituted a four-euro per kilogram charge on personal items sent to Russia), and often you'll find that to-your-door delivery is not available. If you really need to get lots of stuff in with you, contact us to discuss your options.
2. Electrical Appliances (back to top)
You will need a voltage converter
for appliances (e.g., hair dryers, razors, curling irons). The plugs are different, as is the amperage. Check with the manufacturer (often thier websites will have the information) to make sure that your device can work with a converter (the converter can catch fire or destroy your device if a non-compatible device is hooked up to it). If you have any doubt, contact the manufacturer and ask what you should do.
3. Laptops, Cameras, and Other Electronics. (back to top)
A. Voltage issues
Most modern computers have built-in, automatic converters. If the power block (the little black box that you plug your computer into and then plug into the wall) indicates it can handle an input of 100-240V, or if there is a sticker on your computer with the symbol "CCC," then your computer will work anywhere SRAS offers programs so long as you have a plug adapter (the link provided here is for an adapter with a fuse - which is highly recommended). If you use another adapter, make sure it indicates that it will work in Central/Eastern European areas and, if it does not already contain a fuse, purchase a separate surge protector.
If your computer does not indicate this symbol or this input range, you will likely need a full voltage converter. However, you should check and double check your computer's requirements. Plugging an unequipped computer into a foreign power source will damage your computer. Likewise, plugging your computer's voltage converter into a separate voltage converter creates a fire hazard and can also damage your computer. If you have any doubt, contact your computer's manufacturer and ask what you should do.
Most other electronic devices including cameras and mobile phones do not have built in converters. You will need a voltage converter, and make sure you check with the manufacturer to make sure that your device can work with a converter (the converter can catch fire or destroy your device if a non-compatible device is hooked up to it).
Memory sticks, flash cards, and digital cameras (with USB cable) can all be used at most Internet cafes, you just have to ask the service desk for assistance and sometimes pay a small fee (less than $1).
B. Saftey with laptops and valuable electronics
You should also check your warranties before you go abroad. Warranties are not always serviceable in foreign countries.
It is generally safe to bring your computer and electronics to Russia. Many of our students have done so and most of our employees carry laptops around Moscow regularly. However, never pack valuable electronics in your luggage. The chance for theft and damage is too high. Always pack them in your carry-on. We also recommend that you store your equipment at the dorm or at your homestay in a concealed location (such as a drawer) just to be safe. Be sure to turn the equipment off before storing it so it doesn't overheat. Students may contact us about adding optional property insurance to the standard health and travel insurance included with most of our programs.
C. WiFi and other uses for your laptop
If you have a computer or palm pilot, consider getting an electronic dictionary (like Abbyy Lingvo). Also, do not pack your computer into your checked baggage. Always carry it onto the plane.
Many Internet cafes are already equipped to host Internet calling or, if you have an equipped lap-top and a microphone, you may visit a WiFi hotspot (now fairly common in Moscow and Petersburg - see our city guides for more information) and call from a service such as Skype.
We recommend that you see our city guides for the location you intended to visit, as there may be specifics to Internet use in a particular location. Many apartments and some dormitories are Internet-ready, although we do not recommend any dial-up service in Russia. The market leader in Russia for wireless Internet, with the best coverage in locations across Russia is SkyLink. You buy a modem at any Evroset location for $60-120 (depending on max speed) and then either pay about $25 per month for unlimited access inside the Moscow (for example), or pay a few rubles per MB.
There are also several cheap options - such as the little flash-drive modems sold by most of Russia's cell phone service providers (MTS, Beeline, Megafon). However, while these minimize your initial investment (to about $30 in most cases), they also minimize your maximum speeds (to about 56k in most cases - and you can generally expect to average much less than that).
D. Buing Electronics in Russia
Students have often asked us if they should just buy electronics (computers, etc.) when they get to Russia to avoid any problems with amperage, etc. The one plus to doing this, besides slightly lighter luggage on the way over, is that your warranty will be serviced in Russia (see above). However, electronics here cost just as much, if not considerably more, than they do in the US. Also, if you take the computer back, you will have the same problems with amperage, warranties, etc. We do not recommend buying electronics in Russia.
4. Personal Care Items (back to top)
Toothbrush and toothpaste, floss
Soap, deodorant, shampoo/conditioner, feminine products
Comb/brush, razor, nail clippers
Hair dryer and/or curling iron (220 Volt European adapter required – you can find travel dryers in most pharmacies)
A bath towel (dormitory issue bath towels resemble the placemats in truck stops) and washcloth*
Insect repellent (such as OFF!)
Contact lens solution and cleansers
Vitamins – These really help during the long, wet and often dark winter.
First Aid/Medicine (Include a full supply of any needed prescriptions; Stomach medication is recommended as it will take a few days to acclimate to Russia food, altitude, and get over the dehydration that comes with international travel.)
Note: We recommend bringing the above products not because they are impossible to get in Russia, but because after the flight they are simply nice to have with you, hassle free. So don't stockpile them, just bring enough to last you a couple of weeks while you get settled. That said, many - but not all - medications are available in Russia, but often are called by different names and are difficult to track down. So you do want to stockpile your meds if at all possible, just to make sure you will have what you need.
Note: We recommend you carry a toothbrush, toothpaste, and anything else you must have on a daily basis, in your carry on. Bags are often delayed on international flights (sometimes by a few days) due to the complex logistics of international travel. Make sure that everything is in "travel size" containers (100ml or less) to avoid confiscation by airport security.
5. Clothing (back to top)
Fall and winter weather in all but the south of Russia can range from Boston-like coastal damp cold to northern Minnesota-like deep-freeze cold, depending on the year. While Siberia is more extreme in temperature, it is a dry cold, making it quite tolerable with proper clothing. Weather is very unpredictable anywhere, and for your comfort you should be prepared. The numbers of each item are only suggestions; use your own discretion in deciding what and how many of an item to bring. For some internships, you may need to shift towards slightly more formal attire.
3 sweaters or sweatshirts
2 or 3 pairs of jeans or other casual slacks. Dark colors as streets get very dirty with snow/mud/salt/oil mixture in winter.
1 nicer outfit—need not be suit or dress, unless you are interviewing
4+ short sleeve tops (T-shirts are very acceptable)
Underwear to suit your personal needs for the length of your stay
Long underwear (can also be used as pajamas)**
At least one pair thermal or wool socks**
Rain poncho and/or umbrella
Comfortable walking shoes (You will be doing a lot or walking, so make sure your shoes are broken in and comfortable.)
Winter boots** (with good traction – insulated hiking boots are great even for city use)
Winter coat, gloves, hat, scarf**
Additional winter wear**
Pajamas / Bathrobe
Shower shoes/sandals - these are especially recommended if you are staying in the dorms.
**We generally recommend Columbia or Timberland layered parkas. These allow you to remove or add layers to accommodate changing conditions in Russia. Internship students will likely want a longer, heavy wool dress coat. Also, you will want a coat that covers you lower than the waist-line.
6. Other items (back to top)
Notebooks, pens, pencils
Small Russian/English dictionary
Paperbacks for your own enjoyment (crossword puzzle books, etc., whatever you enjoy)
Small calculator; Travel alarm; Stereo/CD player
Extra eyeglasses (especially if you wear contact lenses, knowing your prescription will be handy too)
2 or 3 photocopies of the photo page of your passport
Note: We recommend bringing the above products not because they are impossible to get in Russia, but because after the flight they are simply nice to have with you, hassle free. So don't stock pile them, just bring enough to last you a couple of weeks while you get settled.
Note: This list is made up of suggestions provided by people on previous trips. Use your own discretion in deciding what to bring. Many things are now available in Russia, particularly in Moscow, but usually at higher prices for similar quality. If you think of something, and are not sure, contact us for advice.
7. Gifts (back to top)
In general, wait until you have an established relationship with someone before giving gifts. Over the course of a semester you will have ample opportunity, from birthdays to Russian holidays to use up those gifts. If you would like to present a gift right away, bring small regional perishables (see below), as these can make great conversation starters. This can be exceptionally nice for introducing yourself to your host family if you will be staying in a homestay while in Russia. In choosing gifts, we recommend the following:
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Keep the price low, or at least well hidden. You don't want to put new friends in the position of feeling the need to reciprocate at a level that may be out of their budget.
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Do not bring things like trinkets, bubble gum, candy bars, etc., which will only insult the recipient at this point in history.
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Think of yourself as representing America. Many Russians believe that the quality of goods made in America or Europe is far better. Don't let them down.
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Regional goods are recommended. For example, maple syrup from New England, wine from California, wild rice from Minnesota, some of the exotic potato products from Idaho, photobooks from your area, postcards, regional art or jewelry from the SW (again, tasteful but inexpensive), sports team stuff for young men and boys.
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You can always get flowers in Russia (always an odd number of stems!!!) or chocolates of course, but if you know you will be in Russia for a holiday, you might want to get a few interesting items. Acknowledging Russian holidays is a big way to score points!
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Tips: Gift giving in Russia can feel like a solemn event. Many Russians are not apt to fawn over gifts, so don't be surprised if yours is accepted with a simple "thank you," briefly inspected, and set to the side. Never preface your gift with the words "I don't need this anymore." Your host may take this as an insult, like you are giving them garbage - always give a gift saying that it is something you thought they might like, or something you thought to give them as a show of thanks. This is usually better in any culture.
8. Blackberries and Mobile Phones (back to top)
If you have Blackberry service in the US (for example) you can use it in Russia (quite extensively actually). When you arrive in Russia you will need to switch your network selection (under "Options") to "Manual" and then do a network scan. Depending on your provider in the US (T-Mobile used here as an example) you will probably want to select either Beeline or MTS-RUS. Select, save, and check to make sure that it does eventually switch from GSM to GPRS on your network bar. Occasionally one of the providers might have a temporary problem, in which case go back into the network and switch over to the other option. Second we strongly recommend that you request an international roaming package in advance. Otherwise, it can get pretty expensive. T-Mobile's international roaming supplement is $20 per month for unlimited traffic and you can even pro-rate that if you do a lot of short trips. Simply call them and give them the start and stop dates of the international service.
Mobile phones will work in Russia if they have international roaming activated. You should check with your local cell phone store and your service provider to see what needs to be done to achieve this. Note, however, that rates are such that you will likely be better off buying a cheap mobile phone while in Russia rather than use roaming for several months. See our Guide on Phones and Post for more information.
