Moving abroad? It is simultaneously exciting and I’m sure you already know a daunting process. You got the tickets, got the visa, got the apartment… Now let’s get to packing! Here is your essentials moving abroad packing list. Use this as your guide as you start to organize and pack everything.
Some things to consider
- One of the first steps in any move, but especially an overseas move is getting real about what you really need and use. Only bringing the essentials will help you with the stress of the move.
- You will then need to determine what is worth it to bring and then what is worth it to buy once you get there. Some items are going to be better to buy there like toiletries and kitchen items, but items like electronics or certain clothing pieces are more expensive to replace.
- Pack as much as you can in carry on and checked bags then as a last resort – you can ship some of your stuff.
- If there are things you know you will need immediately like things for work, prescriptions, skincare, certain clothes, etc. Pack that on your carry on or checked bags. This was a huge mistake when I moved abroad, I packed some of my work equipment and our stuff took 3+ months to get here. From what I’ve gathered this is a common time for people moving abroad.
- Also consider if you need to take your stuff back. Now if you plan on moving and staying indefinitely, you don’t have to think about that. For us, we knew we would eventually want to come back. Since my husband’s company was paying to ship some of our stuff, we decided to ship the items that we were eventually going to upgrade anyway. Like our mismatched silverware, big winter jackets and some kitchen supplies – we would get our use and then sell or donate them after so we didn’t have to bring them back.
Keep in mind that you are going to change and evolve while there, so don’t feel like you need to bring everything you own. Your personal style and lifestyle will change.
Packing List Table of Contents
- Documents
- Electronics
- Clothing
- Toiletries
- Kitchen
- Pets
- Extras
1. Documents (bring all)
- Passport / copies of passport
- Visa forms
- Tax forms
- Marriage certificate
- Birth certificate
- Insurance
- Any prescriptions / medications
- Immunization / medical records
- International drivers license (can get from AAA)
- Travel credit cards / digital banking apps (WISE is great for international transfers)
- Pet documents / forms
2. Clothes
Bring
Any clothes you will need for the new climate and lifestyle. Keep in mind the season you’re moving and what season it will transition to next. Vacuum bags and packing cubes are wonderful space savers here.
- Shirts
- Pants
- Shorts
- Dresses / skirts
- Shoes
- Enough underwear, bras and socks
- Swimsuit
Here are some forgotten clothing items to keep in mind
- Layers for changing climates
- Professional clothes
- Work out clothes / shoes
- Rain jacket / shoes
- Seasonal jackets
Buy there:
- Any other clothes you need to fill the gaps
3. Electronics
Bring
- Universal adapters
- Laptop / charger
- Camera / charger
- Phone / changer
- Smart watch / charger
- Gaming systems / charger (yes this is essential to my husband)
- Headphones
- E-reader
- Portable chargers
Buy there
- TV
- Vacuum
4. Toiletries
Bring
- Toothbrush / toothpaste
- Skincare
- Makeup / makeup remover
- Brush
- Razor
- Deodorant
- Contact lenses / glasses
- Nail clippers
- Hair tools
Buy there
- Shampoo/conditioner
- Body wash
- Lotion
- Wash clothes
- Towels
- Sunscreen
- Feminine products
5.Kitchen
Bring
- Specific spices (ones you know you can’t get where you’re moving)
- Reusable water bottle
- Reusable grocery bags – these have great multipurpose uses
- Probiotics or vitamins you might take
Buy there
- Appliances
- Pots and pans
- Cutting boards
- Knives
- Dishware
- Utensils
- Silverware
- Glasses
- Measuring cups
- Cleaning supplies
6. Pets
Bring
- Food
- Medicine
- Collars/ leashes
- Pet carrier
- Their favorite toy
- Portable litter box / doggy poop bags
Buy there
- Bowls
- Treats
- Toys
- Bed
- Litter box / litter
7. Extras
Bring
- Sports equipment like skis, swim goggles, or climbing harnesses that you know you will use often
- Any hobbies you might have – bring your portable chess set, journaling supplies, card games – it’s worth it in the end
- Anything that makes it feel like home! It is hard to be away from what you’ve always known, so bring anything small that has sentimental value and can make your time abroad that much more cozy.
Buy there:
- Tool set
Happy packing!
