Moving abroad packing list
The essential packing tips include travel documents, important personal items, and clothing items when moving abroad.
Bring enough money for an extra cost of living expenses while you are away from home.
If you have a pet, bring the necessary vaccinations and medications.
Moving abroad is not easy, but these tips can be more accessible.
1. Travel Documents
You will need your passport, visa, or other travel documents if you want to move abroad. It would help if you also considered having copies of your passport, access, or any other vital documents in case they get lost or stolen.
2. Essential Items
Make sure that you pack all of your essentials, including toiletries, medication, clothes, etc. If you don’t know what you need, look at our article about packing lists for ex-pats.
3. Clothing Items
Pack light clothing items such as t-shirts, jeans, shirts, sweaters, etc. Bring only one pair of shoes per person.
Moving abroad tips and guides
When packing, remember to keep everything organized. Use boxes, bags, and containers to separate your belongings into categories.
Moving abroad is exciting, but it can also be stressful.
If you’re thinking about moving overseas, you’ve probably already started looking into the details of your new life.
The decision to move abroad is a big one. Before you leave home, there are several things to consider, such as finding a job, buying a house, or even starting school.
The best way to find out if it’s right for you is to try it. If you decide to move abroad, you should do so with a clear idea of what you want from life and where you want to live.
It will help you think through all aspects of moving abroad, including whether you’d like to work, study, travel, or settle down.
However, once you’ve decided to move abroad, there are some crucial steps to take before you go.
This article will look at some of the top tips and guides to help you prepare for your move.
Clothing
Choose comfortable clothes that fit well. When you’re packing, choose practical, versatile, and easy-to-wear garments.
If the country has fall-winter temperatures, you can bring 1-2 coats, a decent jacket, or any comfy jacket.
It is imperative to pack warm clothes because you may find yourself outside during the winter months.
It includes:
- Summer clothes
Summer clothes are ideal for warmer climates. Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen.
- Winter clothes
Warm weather doesn’t always mean hot weather. In colder countries, you might experience snowfall and cold winters.
- Light clothes
Light clothes are great for summer and autumn—pack shorts, skirts, dresses, tops, and pants.
- Dress up
For those who live in cooler climates, dressing up is recommended. It means wearing long sleeves, a hat, and high heels.
Jackets
Bring 4-5 pairs of jackets (depending on how cold it gets). It is better when you are prepared for any circumstance.
You can also pack a light jacket and denim jackets.
A rain jacket is also practical.
- Warm sweater
A warm sweater is essential for people living in cold climates. Wear them under your jacket or over your shirt.
- Cute sweater
A cute sweater is another option for women. They are perfect for layering.
- 6-8 long sleeves / sweaters
Bring 6-8 long sleeve shirts. These are good for casual days.
- Avoid bringing a bulky sweater.
Try not to bring too many bulky sweaters. Instead, try wearing a cardigan or scarf.
Dresses
Bring 3-5 Dresses. It is for a formal occasion or formal places you can visit abroad.
The best way to pack your dress is to fold them. Folded dresses do not wrinkle easily.
Shoes
Bring 3-4 Pairs of shoes. Choose suitable shoes for your climate and the type of activities you plan to engage in it.
For example, if you plan to walk around town, you would want to bring comfortable walking shoes.
If you plan to spend most of your time indoors, you could opt for sneakers.
Don’t forget the casual shoes you can wear when going out.
- Socks
Bring 2-3 pairs of socks. They are essential for keeping your feet warm and dry.
- Boots
Bring 2-3 Boots. They are great for rainy days, snow, and muddy areas.
- Hiking boots
Bring hiking boots. These are ideal for exploring the outdoors.
- Outdoor boots
Bring outdoor boots. They are ideal for hiking, camping, skiing, and other outdoor activities.
Jeans
Pack your button-down and slim-fitting jeans. Jeans are great for traveling and for everyday wear.
They are also ideal for wearing over shorts or skirts.
3-4 jean shorts/other shorts is enough for you.
Here’s more:
- Hiking pants
Bring hiking pants. You will need these if you’re planning to walk in the mountains.
- Trousers
Bring trousers. Trousers are ideal for casual occasions.
- Comfortable pants
Bring comfortable pants. If you have a pair of jeans from home, they should work just fine.
- Swimsuit
Bring a swimsuit. It is an essential item to pack. There are lovely beach resorts all over abroad.
Linens
Bringing your light linens is essential. Linen sets are great for packing.
You can find linen sets at any department store. Choose good breathable linens.
- Traveler’s pillow
Bring a travel pillow. It is helpful for sleeping during flights.
- Blanket
Bring a blanket. A blanket is great for staying warm while sleeping.
Counter medicines
The medicine counter at your local pharmacy has a variety of medications available. Bring some of these along with you.
If you have allergy medicine, bring it.
It is essential to bring some medicine, especially if you are traveling or visiting a foreign country.
- Antihistamines
Bring antihistamines. Antihistamines are to treat allergies.
- Decongestants
Bring decongestants. Decongestants help reduce nasal congestion.
- Painkillers
Bring painkillers. Doctors prescribe some painkillers. Others sold over the counter.
There are various types of painkillers available. Choose one depending on what kind of pain you have.
Other personal items
Universal adapter
Bring your charger. So you can charge your phone anytime, anywhere using the wall socket.
Universal outlet adapters are essential for plugging into the outlets in different countries.
- USB cable
Bring USB cables. You can connect your laptop to a power source through a USB cable.
- Headphones
Bring headphones. You can listen to music or watch movies on them.
- Camera
Bring a camera. You can take pictures wherever you go.
A tripod is needed too.
- Flashlight
Bring a flashlight. You can use it to read at night and use it when there is no electricity.
Bring luggage tags. You can attach them to your bags.
This way, you won’t lose your bag.
- Emergency kit
Bring emergency kits. It includes first aid supplies, fire starters, water purification tablets, etc.
- Credit card
Ensure your credit and debit cards are valid. Make sure that you don’t forget to bring them.
- Cash
Bring cash. It is always best to carry some money rather than relying on your bank account.
Other things to consider
Baggage
When moving out to a different country, you may be required to check your baggage.
Some airlines require you to pay extra fees for checked baggage. If this happens, make sure you know how much the cost is before checking in your luggage.
Always check the airline’s baggage policy for hand-carry and check-in baggage.
It can help you avoid paying more money if you choose not to check your baggage.
Checked baggage allowance varies from airline to airline.
Insurance
Make sure you have insurance. Insurance helps cover medical costs in case you get sick or injured.
It is common to get sick. You need to ensure you have adequate health coverage.
When moving abroad, always prioritize getting a good health insurance plan.
Currency
Make sure you bring enough currency. The amount depends on where you’re going.
For example, you’ll need euros if you’re going to Europe.
If you’re going to Asia, you’ll need dollars.
You should also bring enough money to meet any expenses during your stay.
Airline tickets
Make sure you book your flights well in advance. Many websites offer deals.
Booking in advance will save you money.
Packing tip “Don’t trust yourself” check twice.
If you are packing for a trip, don’t trust yourself! Check twice before you leave home.
It’s easy to forget something or misplace something. Pack everything you think you might need, and then double-check it.
Don’t wait until you’re at the airport to realize you forgot something.
Many travelers end up missing their flight because they didn’t pack properly.
How long do I need?
The time needed depends on several factors:
- Your destination
The distance between your current location and your new location. Whether you’re traveling by air, train, bus, car, or foot
Whether you’re planning to travel alone or with friends.
The number of suitcases you’re bringing.
- The weather conditions
Moving abroad requires preparation. It would help if you prepared for the possibility of bad weather.
In some cases, you may want to bring an umbrella.
Weather changes quickly. Be prepared for anything.
- packing basics
There are some general guidelines for packing, but each person needs to decide what works best for them.
Your packing process will depend on your personal preferences and the type of items you’re taking.
Avoid bulky items such as books, clothes, and other large objects.
Use small bags and boxes when possible. Try to use lightweight containers.
The final verdict
Pack what you need. Don’t take too much space.
Remember that you won’t be able to carry all of your belongings with you.
Leave room for souvenirs, gifts, and other things you’d like to keep.
Be careful about leaving valuables behind. Don’t forget to include essential documents.
