This Is All You Need! Packing List for Short-Term Study Abroad: English Study in Cebu, Philippines

**A packing guide for a comfortable, worry-free commuting-style stay of 1 to 2 weeks**

For those planning a short-term study trip to Cebu, “What should I bring to feel secure?” is one of the first worries they face. With a commuting-style program like 3D ACADEMY's in particular, you cannot rely on dormitory facilities, so you need to prepare well on your own.

This article introduces, by category, **a packing checklist specialized for a short stay of 1 to 2 weeks**. To focus on studying English, keep your luggage to a minimum. But you don't want to be inconvenienced by forgotten items either. For you, we have carefully selected **a list you can truly say “this is all I need!” about**.

Even if it is your first time studying abroad, let's clear up your worries starting with what to pack so you can get off to a worry-free start!

Passport (at least 6 months of remaining validity)

It is required at immigration, so **be sure to check the expiry date before departure**. We also recommend keeping a copy and saving it on your smartphone.

Copy of your flight ticket

Showing it on your smartphone screen is fine, but **bringing a printed paper copy too** gives peace of mind in case of connectivity trouble.

Cash (Japanese yen + Philippine pesos) or a credit card

Cash is the mainstream in Cebu. Prepare **both Japanese yen and pesos** so you can exchange money right after arrival. Credit cards can be used at some restaurants and hotels.

SIM card or pocket Wi-Fi

Having a means of communication locally is convenient for many things. **If you have a SIM-free device, we recommend buying a SIM locally**. For those who will use it for long hours, **renting Wi-Fi in Japan** is also good.

Notebook and writing tools

In one-on-one lessons, **there are many occasions to take your own notes, so a notebook and pen that are easy to write with** are a must.

Light jacket

Cebu is eternally summer, but the **air conditioning in classrooms can be too strong and cold**. A cardigan or hoodie you can throw on gives peace of mind.

Change of clothes (about one week's worth)

Laundry is possible locally, but it helps to choose **quick-drying, wrinkle-resistant clothing**. Short sleeves and shorts are best during the day, and long sleeves from the evening on.

Towel

Some hotels do not provide bath towels. A **thin quick-dry towel** is handy to have.

Toiletries

Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo and so on: **prepare on the assumption that hotel amenities are insufficient**. If they are 100 ml or less, you can also carry them on board.

Sunscreen and insect repellent spray

The sun is strong, and these are **a must when going out on weekend activities too**. If you have sensitive skin, prepare Japanese-made products.

Folding umbrella

In Cebu, where squalls come suddenly, a **folding umbrella you can always carry** is useful.

Electronic dictionary or translation app

It is handy to be able to look up unknown words on the spot during class. **A dictionary app that also works offline is especially recommended**.

Self-study materials

Having a grammar book or vocabulary book you are used to lets you **review in spare time efficiently**. Narrow it down to one to keep your luggage light.

Laptop / Tablet

For review at the hotel and to boost the efficiency of self-study. **Online dictionaries and pronunciation practice apps can also be used**. Wi-Fi conditions differ by hotel.

Reusable bag

For small purchases and for carrying materials to the classroom. A **folding eco bag** is popular.

Regular medications

When you feel unwell, **having medicine that suits you on hand is reassuring**. It is good to bring small amounts of digestive medicine, cold medicine, motion sickness medicine and so on.

Sandals

Handy for showering at the hotel and for beach trips. **A waterproof type is better**.

• **English beginners**: A simple Japanese phrasebook or example sentence book
• **Traveling in the rainy season (June to November)**: A raincoat and waterproof bag give peace of mind
• **Planning to join outreach or weekend trips**: Athletic shoes, a hat, a water bottle, etc.

When taking part in activities that involve interaction with local children, such as orphanage visits, **you need to be careful about what you wear**.

This includes religious and cultural considerations, so be mindful to wear **clean clothing that does not show much skin**.

In the commuting course, rather than a dormitory, **you arrange your own hotel or condominium**. Some facilities have extensive amenities, but **many do not provide toothbrushes or slippers, so please check**. Tiredness tends to show especially on the first day, so some degree of preparation is necessary.

On a short stay of 1 to 2 weeks, the balance between “keeping luggage to a minimum” and “not being in trouble locally” is important.

• Don't forget to check the essential items
• Choose compact, multi-purpose daily necessities
• Prepare so you can respond flexibly to unexpected developments

In particular, **because 3D ACADEMY's commuting course calls for an “independent style of stay”, ingenuity in what you pack leads directly to a comfortable study abroad life**.

If you are anxious, wondering “Is this really enough?”, please consult 3D's Japanese staff before you travel. We are sure you will be able to depart with confidence!

**[Short-Term Commuting Course] Effective even in 1 to 2 weeks! Study English abroad at a language school without a dormitory**