General
The most important thing is preparing yourself physically because physical training at OTS may not be sufficient enough to get you where you need to be. Look up Air Force PT requirements and gauge yourself–aim for scoring into the 90’s (excellent). Ensure you complete all your WINGS computer-based training beforehand. You CAN study the OTSMAN if you want to mitigate potential yelling when you arrive, but, it’s not necessary as you will have ample time to study it. If you are a non-prior, it’s not a bad idea to get familiar with individual drill movements (standing at attention, facing movements, etc.).
Packing
There are plenty of resources out there providing detailed packing lists for OTS. Even the Welcome Guide that’s provided to you by OTS (Air University page) will pretty much cover all your needs. I would definitely recommend that you go ahead and purchase all of the “recommended items” in addition to the mandatory ones in the Welcome Guide before your arrival and bring them with you to OTS. Some extraneous items that helped me out personally were Windex and Lysol wipes, lint rollers (small and large), lighters, moleskin and/or anti-chaffing body glide, compression underwear in addition to regular underwear, an electric shaver (faster and less messy for males), higher quality socks instead of the standard-issue, an extra pair of boots (with at least one pair being water-resistant), an extra blanket, a hydration pack that has extra zipper storage compartments, at least one small notebook you can carry with you at all times, and your own pillow, at least 15 of the same style coat hangers (medium-heavy duty), and the OCP EWICS (ie. raincoat). You can and should bring any over-the-counter meds you may want/need such as Dayquil, Ibuprofen, melatonin, etc. I highly suggest to roll/fold as many of your clothing items as possible, such as all your shirts and socks (reference the dorm manual for the details). Consider bringing a printer (you’ll want at least one for your flight). If still dealing with COVID, consider bringing clippers for your haircut.
First Day
Show up hydrated with a full camelback and dressed in proper attire. If you’re a Direct Commission, make sure you have at least $200 cash on you. Be prepared to carry ALL of your luggage about 1/4 a mile or so.
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