What to Pack
Home / Essential Information / What to Pack
It’s important to keep in mind the weather when packing your clothes. Bahrain has two main seasons: a cooler season that lasts from December to February, and a hot season stretching from April to October. During the summer months, afternoon temperatures average around 37-40°C. In winter, temperatures range between 10°C and 20°C.
Although there is no particular dress code followed throughout Bahrain, the general rule is to dress modestly in public. This usually means sensible length skirts and shoulders covered when in public areas for females. Men should wear clothes that cover their knees when in public. Very tight or transparent clothing is considered inappropriate for both genders.
Clothes we recommend you make room for in your suitcase include:
- Professional attire for exams and hospital rotations
- Occasion clothes for the many College balls and events throughout the year.
Some students bring homeware items – such as bed linen and towels – but remember these can be heavy and you can buy all of these when you arrive in Bahrain.
What to Pack – Med 1 (5-Year Medicine Programme)
Before joining RCSI Bahrain, new Year 1 Medical students should make sure they have the following items:
- Scrubs – any colour
- White lab coat
- Stethoscope
- Pen torch
- Queen’s reflex hammer
- 128 Hz tuning fork
Good to know: These items are available to purchase in Bahrain, so you do not need to bring everything with you from home. However, you may find it more convenient to purchase some or all of these items before travelling to Bahrain, particularly if you already have preferred brands or equipment.
RCSI Bahrain also has an RCSI Shop where you can purchase items such as lab coats and other RCSI-related essentials.
We recommend having your essential equipment ready before the start of your practical and clinical skills sessions.