2. Baggage
If you’re not in Canada when you read this, you still have a chance to double-check your luggage. Technically, if you have enough budget, you only need a credit card for carry-on luggage: you can buy anything in Vancouver. But if you want to save money, it’s better to use your full airline baggage allowance. Some pointers:
2.1. Suits
Business students, spoiler alert: there are a few occasions during your studies where the dress code is formal. So, if you have a suit, pack it.
2.2. Bed sheet
As ridiculous as it sounds, you may not believe me when I say it, but when you rent an apartment in Vancouver, the odds are high that the room has no furniture. Yes, your rent does not include a bed, couch, table and chairs in the room. This means that for your first night in Vancouver, you will either stay in a hotel, an Airbnb, or sleep on the floor.
Considering that hotel prices always peak at the beginning of the school year, it’s better to sleep on the floor if you don’t particularly mind. A bed sheet will make you feel not that bad. The rooms usually have carpeting, so put on a sheet and sleep for a few days until your bed from IKEA arrives.
2.3. Prohibited goods
Please read the list of “Restricted and prohibited goods” published by the Canadian Border Services Agency carefully. Generally speaking, fruits and meats are prohibited. Just because Canada is a friendly country doesn’t mean fines aren’t here. Don’t let a ticket be the first impression you leave when you enter Canada.