Comprehensive reference for international students at UBC.
What to bring
What to bring
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It rains a lot in Vancouver, especially from October to March, so it’s a good idea to bring an umbrella, a raincoat, and waterproof shoes or boots. You’ll also want warm jackets, gloves, and hats for winter. Bring warm sportswear if you enjoy outdoor recreation because you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get outside.
UBC students dress casually for classes, but you may wish to bring some formal clothes for special occasions.
Check out Study permits & visas for a detailed list of what you need to bring with you. Carry your immigration documents on you (not in your luggage) when you travel.
For information about what you can legally bring into Canada, consult the Canada Border Services Agency’s online brochure called Entering Canada to Study or to Work
It’s a good idea to bring a copy of your medical records for you and your family members. If you have a chronic medical condition, get your physician to write a short medical history (preferably in English) for your new doctor in Canada.
Bring records (including the dates) of any immunizations and tests you have had done. If you use traditional medicines or special herbal remedies on a regular basis, you may want to bring enough to last your stay. Before you do, however, check with the nearest Canadian consulate, visa office, or the Canada Border Services Agency about any import restrictions on these substances.
If you bring medications, make sure they are in the original packaging and are accompanied by a prescription from your physician.
If you’re going to live in residence at UBC, download the What to Bring to Residence PDF.
If you bring a car with you, you’ll need to register and insure it within 30 days of your arrival in British Columbia. If you are driving across the Canadian border, you’ll be issued a Vehicle Import Form, which you need to take to the Insurance Corporation of British Columbi (ICBC), along with the title, registration, and evidence of current insurance.
Provincial law requires that your vehicle undergo a mechanical safety inspection before you can register or insure it.
Students from the United States may be allowed to register and insure their cars at home for the period they remain full-time students in Canada. Please check your insurance provider’s rules before you leave home.
