Some airlines may require you to check your carry-on if storage space in the airplane is limited. To ensure you have the essentials upon arriving to the United States, please pack the following items in your personal item (backpack):

• Passport and visa papers, including your DS-2019 form
• Your EF Student ID card
• Proof of insurance (for example, your Erika Travel Insurance card)
• Your flight itinerary and printed e-ticket
• Your host family's address
• Valuable items like a smartphone, jewelry, etc.
• Cash or credit/debit cards for any travel purchases
• Your phone charger
• Pen for filling out USA entry forms during the flight
• Any medications you take; for prescription medication, you need a statement from your doctor in English clearly saying what the medicine is and what it is for
• Something to read, preferably in English!

For the latest rules and regulations on what you can or can't bring on the airplane, visit www.tsa.gov

• Don't wait until the last minute. Practice packing ahead of time to get a sense for how many bags you'll need.
• We recommend that all students put AirTags or other tracking devices in their luggage for peace of mind and additional information if your luggage is lost in transit.
• Your international flight will likely include one (1) checked bag. We recommend reviewing your airline's website once you receive your E-ticket to confirm size, weight, and the number of bags you are allowed.

• You will receive one flight ticket: your international ticket from your home country to your host family's preferred airport. You should be able to view all of your flight information in the Hub. Print off copies of your e-tickets to carry with you for easy access to your flight information.
• Download your airline's mobile app! This can be used to check in to your flight, see real-time flight updates, plan layover(s) using airport maps and access mobile boarding pass.
• Check-in online 24 hours before your flight if this service is offered by the airline and make sure you enter your name exactly as it is on the e-ticket. If online check-in is not possible, please make sure to be at the airport at least 3 hours in advance for the in-person check-in.
• Prior to your flights, log in to your online reservation on your airline’s website and submit your contact information. This will ensure that you will receive pre-departure messages from the airline via text and email.
• Save the EF Travel Support number in your phone ahead of time: +1 800-634-8351
• Arrive at the airport three hours prior to your flight departure and bring a copy of your e-ticket.
• Wear your EF hoodie or t-shirt and send your host family a travel day selfie! That way they know what you’re wearing and can easily find you once you arrive.

1. Get off plane
2. Go through immigration (get visa stamped, etc. usually a long line)
3. Get bags at baggage claim
4. Go through customs
5. If you are at your final destination, exit to the arrivals hall. If you have another connecting flight, put bags back on the connecting flight baggage belt and proceed to the gate of your next flight.

Please note that at your airport of entry into the U.S., you will need to pick up your luggage and put it back on the connecting flight baggage belt. We also recommend that you take a photo of your luggage before checking it in in case you need it later to make a claim to the airline.

Your flight is delayed

• We're so sorry your trip is taking longer than expected, but this is very common. If you experience a delay but your flight schedule will not be impacted (i.e., you will not miss your next flight), sit tight! The airline will keep you notified of any changes, but you should still travel on your original itinerary.
• If your flight is delayed prior to your departure, still plan to arrive at the airport for the original departure time as changes could still occur.
• If your flight is delayed on your way to your host family, send your host family a message to let them know you may be arriving later than expected.

You miss your connecting flight

• Go to the airline’s help desk and ask to be rebooked on the next available flight to your final destination.
• Remember: the airline’s help desk will have the most up-to-date rebooking options and will be best to efficiently help you get rebooked!
• If you miss your connecting flight on your way to your host family, call your host family after you’ve been rebooked to let them know your new flight info.

Your flight is canceled

• 2+ days before departure: Our Operations team will work to book you a new flight. Once you’ve been rebooked, your new flight info will appear in The Hub and you will be notified via email. You can also check your reservation on the airline’s website at any time to find the most up-to-date flight information.
• 1 day before or the same day of departure: Contact the airline directly and ask to be rebooked on the first available flight(s) to your final destination.

Your luggage is lost or late

• Once you arrive at your host family's destination, let your host family or your EF coordinator know that your luggage has been lost/is late. They’ll help you complete the lost luggage paperwork with your airline.
• Don't worry, this is very common and the airline should get you your bag back soon. Make sure you keep your luggage receipt after checking your bag!