Pack light and comfortably. Many of the items you’ll need can be bought or replaced in Jamaica. Also check with your airline in advance for the baggage allowance. Typically, it is one large suitcase (maximum weight 50 pounds) and one carry-on.
Clothes: Due to generally warm temperatures, we recommend that you come with light cotton (breathable) clothes as opposed to polyester materials. Bring clothes that are easily hand washed, delicate. Think “light”, “washable” and “quick to dry”!
Females – Extremely revealing clothing is not recommended on campus especially short shorts or skirts that are above the knees. No overly exposed torsos, low slung pants and cropped t-shirts are allowed for class wear. We recommend the following: pants and skirts (especially cotton or other light, “breathable” materials), t-shirts and polo shirts, short-sleeved cotton blouses, two dresses (suitable for special school functions or semi-formal class function); cotton sleepwear, casual wear on weekends, swimsuit for the weekend beach trips, sandals or sneakers for everyday wear and a pair of dress shoes for important occasions.
Males: Full-length trouser and polo-shirts are recommended as appropriate for class. No muscle shirts are allowed as class wear. We also recommend long-sleeved cotton shirt and a dress pants (for special occasions), a pair of light shoes or sneakers for classes and dress shoes (for special occasions). Other items may include caps (not to be worn in class), swim trunks, and sports gear.
Room Supplies: If you are renting a furnished apartment, you may have to bring the following minimum supplies: washrags, a towel, and bed sheets! These items and others such as eating utensils can be bought in Jamaica.
Toiletries: We advise that you bring your personal toiletries (soaps, toothpaste, etc) though basic toiletries can be obtained at nearby supermarkets and pharmacies. A simple packing list includes:
Medication: If you are currently taking any prescription medications, be sure to bring enough to last the duration of your visit, plus some extra, just in case. Make sure that the medications are labelled and in a proper container (i.e. pill bottle). It is also advisable to carry a copy of the prescription in case of emergency. Hospitals, doctors’ offices and pharmacies are close to the campus where you can receive medications and treatment in case of emergencies or whenever necessary.
Electronics: The electricity in Jamaica is 110-120V at 50hz (cycles).
Laptop (if you have one) – many people have regretted not coming with them since they can be very helpful for personal internet/writing your study notes. You can also buy an internet modem cheaply (pay as you go) whilst you are here. Wireless capability is availability on campus.
Mobile phone – it is not necessary to bring your mobile phone from your home country since international roaming charges are often expensive. But you may bring your handset and have it unlocked so you can use a local SIM card. You can opt to buy a simple mobile phone in Jamaica for about US$30, SIM card for US$15 and pre-paid credit is normally available at a minimum of US$15 (10 minutes on average).
Money / Cash: The common and easily changed currencies in Jamaica are the US Dollars, British Pounds and Euros. It’s advisable to convert your home currency to the US dollar or any of the above before coming to Jamaica. It’s a good idea to also have some money on a credit or debit card as these are widely used. The most commonly accepted card is Visa or MasterCard. Though debit/credit cards are widely used, we still advise that you come with a small amount of cash to avoid any inconveniences.
Personal budget:Cost of living depends like anything on individual choice and lifestyle! On a general budget we advise that you come with between US$50-90 a week to cater for your personal needs such as lunch, phone credit, transportation, snacks, drinks and excursions if preferred, and any other things you may wish to buy.