Places to Go
Networking

Packing Tips for YLAI

General Packing Tips

  • ✅ Pack Light & Versatile – Phoenix has hot days (85-100°F in May) and cooler evenings. Bring outfits you can mix and match.
  • ✅ Business & Casual Balance – You'll need professional outfits for meetings but also casual wear for exploring.
  • ✅ Comfortable Footwear – You’ll do a lot of walking, so bring sneakers and comfortable dress shoes.
  • ✅ Layering is Key – Air-conditioned buildings can get cold, so light layers help.
  • ✅ Leave Room for Souvenirs – You’ll probably bring back gifts or business materials.

Packing Guide for Females

Clothing

  • 3-4 Business Outfits (blazers, slacks, skirts, or dresses) – For professional meetings & networking.
  • 2-3 Smart Casual Outfits (blouse & jeans/slacks) – For casual business events.
  • 2-3 Comfortable Casual Outfits (jeans, leggings, tank tops, T-shirts) – For weekends & downtime.
  • 2-3 Dressy Outfits (cocktail dress or jumpsuit) – For special dinners or networking parties.
  • 2 Light Jackets or Blazers – It gets chilly indoors.
  • Comfy Loungewear & PJs for lounging around the apartment and sweet bedtime comfort.


Shoes &Accessories

  • Comfortable Flats or Loafers – For walking at business events.
  • Dressy Heels (if you want to give an outfit an extra pop)
  • Sneakers or Hiking Shoes – For exploring outdoors.
  • Sandals – For casual days.
  • Business Tote or Backpack – For carrying a laptop & essentials.
  • Minimal Jewelry – Stylish but not excessive.
  • Sunglasses & Hat – Arizona sun is strong!
  • Crossbody Bag – For sightseeing with security.
  • Swimsuit – The apartment has nice pools.


Toiletries & Essentials

  • Travel-size Shampoo, Conditioner, & Lotion
  • Makeup & Skincare (travel-friendly sizes)
  • Deodorant & Perfume
  • Hair Tools (mini flat iron/curling wand if needed)
  • Menstrual Products (hard to find some brands in stores)
  • Sunscreen (SPF 30+) – A must in Arizona!
  • Bug Spray – If doing outdoor activities.

Packing Guide for Males

Clothing

  • 3-4 Business Outfits (button-down shirts, dress pants, polo shirts) – For meetings & networking.
  • 2-3 Smart Casual Outfits (chinos & polo/short-sleeve button-up) – For business casual events.
  • 2-3 Comfortable Casual Outfits (T-shirts, jeans, shorts) – For everyday use.
  • 1-2 Dressy Outfits (sports jacket & dress shoes) – For formal networking events.
  • 1 Light Jacket or Blazer – Chilly indoors.
  • Comfy Loungewear & PJs for lounging around the apartment and sweet bedtime comfort.


Shoes &Accessories

  • Comfortable Dress Shoes – For long conference days.
  • Sneakers or Hiking Shoes – For outdoor activities.
  • Flip-Flops or Slides – For casual days.
  • Swim Trunks – For the pools at the apartment
  • Business Backpack or Messenger Bag – For work events.
  • Sunglasses & Hat – Essential for Arizona sun.
  • Belt & Minimal Jewelry – Keep it professional.
  • Casual Watch – Professional but not flashy.

Toiletries & Essentials

  • Travel-size Shampoo, Conditioner, & Lotion
  • Razor & Shaving Cream
  • Deodorant & Cologne
  • Sunscreen (SPF 30+) – Very important!
  • Bug Spray – If planning hikes or outdoor activities.
  • Lip Balm – The dry Arizona air can cause chapped lips

Additional Must-Haves for Both

  • Laptop & Charger – A must for work.
  • Portable Power Bank – For networking events.
  • Business Cards – For marketing and networking events.
  • Universal Plug Adapter (if needed).
  • Notebook & Pens – Good for taking notes.
  • Headphones – Useful for travel or focus time.
  • Travel Insurance Documents – In case of emergencies.
  • YLAI Documents & ID – Passport, visa, program paperwork.
  • Emergency Contact Info – Always good to have.
  • Reusable Water Bottle – Arizona is hot—stay hydrated!
  • Light Backpack – For sightseeing trips.
  • Energy Bars or Snacks – Helpful between events.
  • Credit/Debit Cards & Some Cash – Not everywhere takes cards.
  • Take a piece of home with you - a sentimental keepsake to keep you grounded or for solace.
  • Pack your country's flag- Great for representing your country in photos

Additional Travel Tips

  • Check Weather Forecast Before Packing – Phoenix is hot, but nearby cities may be cooler.
  • Roll Clothes Instead of Folding – Saves space and reduces wrinkles.
  • Organize your clothes by category - to find items effortlessly without needing to search through your luggage.
  • Bring a Foldable Tote Bag – For extra items you pick up during the trip.
  • Download Offline Maps – In case you lose Wi-Fi while exploring.



Before You Fly: Preparation Tips

  • Check Your Flight Details – Double-check the airline, flight time, and layovers. Download the airline app for real-time updates.
  • Pack Smart for Carry-On – Keep essentials (passport, wallet, charger, toiletries, medication) in your carry-on in case your checked luggage is delayed.
  • Weigh Your Luggage – Airlines have strict baggage limits. Weigh your bags at home to avoid extra fees. You can use a portable Scale
  • Print & Screenshot Important Documents – Save copies of your passport, visa, flight itinerary, YLAI documents, and emergency contacts in your phone and as hard copies.
  • Plan for Security Checks – Wear easy-to-remove shoes, avoid excessive jewelry, and keep liquids under 3.4oz (100ml) in a clear bag.
  • Have a Backup Payment Method – Carry both a debit/credit card and some cash.

At the Airport: Navigating with Ease

  • Arrive Early: Get to the airport three hours early for international flights. This allows plenty of time for security.
  • Online Check-In: Check in online 24 hours before your flight. Skip the lines.
  • Head to Security: Go straight to security after check-in. This avoids last-minute stress.
  • Know Your Terminal & Gate: Check monitors for gate changes. Stay informed.
  • Pack Snacks : Airport food is expensive. Buy water after security.
  • Wear Comfortable Clothes – Airports can be cold; dress in layers.

Arriving in the U.S.: Immigration & Customs

1

Be Honest and Confident

State your purpose clearly. Say: "I'm here for the YLAI fellowship."

2

Documents Ready

Have your passport, DS-2019, letter, and return flight details.

3

U.S. Address

Provide your accommodation address when asked by the officer.

4

Declare Food Items

Avoid bringing fresh food. U.S. customs are very strict about this.

5

Luggage Signs

Follow the airport signs. They will lead you to baggage and customs.

Need Help?

Contact Your IREX Advisor:

Lia Crayne-Deidrick

Reach out via:

lcrayne-dedrick@irex.org

Contact Your Cohort Ambassador

Global Ties Arizona (GTAz)

Reach out via:

info@globaltiesarizona.org

Contact Your City Mentor

Claudine Reid

Reach out via:

claudine@digitalawah.com