Clothing

The weather in Bozeman varies greatly throughout the year. While many days can be sunny, the temperatures can range throughout the day and night. The best way to prepare is to know what season you will visit during.

Winter (November - March) is sunny but often very cold. Expect temperatures to vary greatly throughout the course of the day and night ranging temperatures from below -15 to a high of 5 Celsius (5F - 40F). Snow is possible.The key to dressing appropriately for this weather is to bring clothing that can be layered. A typical Montanan might dress for a winter day in a long-sleeved shirt, covered by a sweater and a coat. Layering clothing in this way allows you to adjust as the temperature changes. You will definitely want a coat for the evenings. Close-toed shoes or boots, warm thick socks, and jeans or pants will provide plenty of warmth. Layering clothing in this way allows you to stay comfortable as the temperature changes. If it is difficult for you to find warm clothing at home, there is no need to worry. Affordable clothing can be found at a variety of stores upon your arrival.

Spring/ Fall (March - June/ September - November) Temperatures during these months can be unpredictable and change throughout the day ranging from -4 Celsius to a high of 22 Celsius (25F - 70F). These months are the most important to have many layers to adjust to the changing weather. 

Summer (June - September) weather is nearly always beautiful and sunny. However, the temperatures can vary greatly and quickly throughout the course of the day. In June and July, the temperature ranges from a low of 5 Celsius to a high of 35 Celsius (50F - 85F).  A typical Montanan might dress for a July day in a short-sleeved T-shirt, covered by a long-sleeved button shirt, covered by a lightweight vest. Layering clothing in this way allows you to adjust as the temperature changes throughout the day. You may also want a light coat for the evenings. A rain jacket or an umbrella is also a very good idea. Afternoon rain is common in Montana in the summer.

At the university, dress is decidedly informal. Professors, for example, seldom wear jackets or neck ties, while students frequently wear jeans and T-shirts. Non-western wear is acceptable to wear at all times. Traditional clothing is a great way to introduce your culture to campus and community members. You should plan to bring one outfit to wear during more formal social events. This may consist of a suit coat and pants or a nice dress.

It is important that you pack at least one pair of comfortable, close-toed walking shoes.

Visitors to Montana are typically encouraged to bring the following items:

  • adequate supply of prescription medication (carry-on bag);
  • extra pair of prescription glasses or contacts (carry-on bag);
  • an appropriate converter for your electronics;
  • waterproof boots that are warm (fall, winter, spring);
  • comfortable walking shoes;
  • warm socks;
  • multiple pairs of pants;
  • shorts (summer)
  • a warm sweater and jacket (wool or synthetic);
  • a hat, scarf, and gloves/mittens (all seasons!);
  • warm pajamas/bed clothes;
  • exercise clothes (if you want to use the MSU or community gymnasium);
  • a swimsuit (if you want to use the pool);
  • lip balm (the climate is very dry)
  • sunglasses;
  • dress clothes for presentations and parties;
  • pictures and cultural objects to share with the program staff and other participants;
  • spices or "comfort food" that may not be available in Bozeman;
  • optional traditional clothes to wear to certain activities or parties.

Luggage

Pack as lightly as possible!  You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage, so plan to pack only what you can manage yourself. Generally, airlines permit travelers on international flights to and from the United States to check two suitcases each weighing no more than 22.5 kg.  Over 22.5 kg and you will likely be charged $100 per overweight bag. Luggage for domestic travel (to and from Washington D.C.) can cost up to $35/per checked bag. It is recommended therefore that your luggage consist of two medium-sized suitcases (each weighing less than 22.5 kg). If you can manage with only one bag, you may also wish to pack a duffel bag or collapsible suitcase to take home purchased items. Alternatively, you can buy a second piece of luggage in Bozeman if you find your personal items have grown throughout the program. In addition to your checked baggage, airlines generally allow passengers to carry a small bag and one personal item (e.g. a purse or small backpack) aboard the plane. We strongly encourage you to pack in your carry-on luggage a few days of clothing and other essentials, such as prescribed medication, in case your checked bag is delayed or lost in transit.

Electrical Appliances

The standard electrical system in the United States is alternating current, 60 cycles, 120 volts. If you choose to bring electric devices (such as a travel alarm or hair dryer), please consider the differences in voltage, Hertz, and plug styles. For more information on converting electricity, please use a search engine such as Google, Yahoo, or click here.

Medicine

If you require any prescription medications, please bring these with you on the aircraft. If you are under doctor's care for any condition, you may want to bring a letter from your physician describing your condition and treatment regime in case you need to see a doctor while you are in the United States.

Dictionary

You will be provided with all required books and materials needed during the program. However, you may want to bring a translation dictionary to assist you, simply because they may be expensive or not readily available here.

Toiletries

Although you will be able to purchase toiletries locally, you might not be able to find the brand you enjoy using. Therefore, you should bring an ample supply of toiletries, such as:

  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss and other dental hygiene items
  • Soap
  • Shampoo, conditioner, and other hair care items
  • Lotion (the Montana climate is very dry and you may need extra hydration)
  • Anti-perspirant/deodorant
  • Razor and shaving cream (if appropriate)
  • Sunscreen lotion

Valuables

Although the MSU campus and Bozeman are considered safe, neither the U.S. government nor the university can guarantee the safety of your valuables. Therefore, you should leave expensive and extravagant items at home.

Home Country Items

There will be many opportunities for you to share your culture with the MSU campus community and the people of Bozeman. Past visitors have brought traditional clothing items, music, postcards, and small traditional crafts or candies to share with presenters, host families, or other members of the Bozeman community.