Moving Abroad Packing List: 39+ Essential Items to Prevent Hassles

Karen Roldan

29 Aug 2021 — 11 min read

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Moving abroad is a thrilling and transformative experience, whether you're embarking on this journey for work, love, or simply seeking a new adventure. Being thoroughly prepared for your international relocation is crucial. A key component of this preparation is a comprehensive packing list. My moving abroad packing list is designed to help you gather everything you need, ensuring a seamless transition.

Having moved abroad twice, I am intimately familiar with the challenges that accompany moving to a new country. Adjusting to different cultures and languages, and navigating unfamiliar cities – the obstacles are numerous!

One avoidable challenge, however, is not packing the right items. That's why I've created this ultimate moving abroad packing checklist.

In this post, I will guide you through the ultimate packing list, organized into various categories, to guarantee you have all the essentials for your big move. Additionally, I've included links to some of my favorite products, simplifying your shopping process.

Moving Abroad Packing List Considerations

Where are you headed? Your moving abroad packing list will significantly depend on your destination. For instance, are you moving from a tropical area to a colder place like Sweden?
When are you moving? If your relocation is to a tropical country, leaving behind winter clothes might be a wise choice. However, if you're moving during winter, think about whether to pack all your bulky winter gear or not.
How long will you be staying abroad? Determining whether your move is short-term, long-term, or if you're a digital nomad will influence what you pack.
What's your financial situation? It's crucial to evaluate your finances when preparing for your move or study abroad. This will inform your decisions. Can you afford a moving company, or do you need to budget carefully, fitting your essentials into checked luggage?

After considering these factors, deciding what to pack should now be much easier!

What to Pack When Moving Abroad

Below, you will find a comprehensive moving abroad packing checklist that categorizes the essentials for your international relocation. This list is designed to ease your stress by clearly distinguishing between what you need and what you might need, ensuring the task doesn't feel overwhelming.

It covers everything crucial for a long-term stay or for moving abroad, along with suggestions for items you can comfortably leave behind.

A Woman Packing Her Suitcase - Moving Abroad Packing List

Important documents

To ensure you're fully prepared for your relocation abroad, it's essential to organize your important documents. Having these papers readily available will give you peace of mind.

For added security, you should create photocopies of your important documents such as your passport and birth certificate. These documents should be stored separately from the originals.

Additionally, think about digitizing your documents for added convenience. This way, you can easily print them whenever required after you've established yourself in your new country. To enhance security, consider utilizing a password manager such as NordPass to safely store your digital documents.

SHOP TRAVEL ITEMS

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Passport: Ensure it's valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
Visas: Necessary visas for your destination country.
Birth Certificate: Original or certified copy.
International Driver's License: If you intend to drive, having an international driver's license is crucial. Depending on the country, this license can keep you legally on the road for up to a year!
Marriage Certificate: If applicable, for marital status verification.
Medical Records: Including vaccination history and prescription details.
Health Insurance Documents: Proof of existing coverage or international health insurance.
Copies of Important Documents: Keep both digital and physical copies of your passport, visa, and other essential documents in case of loss or theft.
Credit Cards: Ensure they are valid for international use.
Digital Banking Apps: Simplify your finances with Wise and Revolut. They offer great rates and low fees, ideal for expats, immigrants, and travelers.
Pet Health Records: If you're bringing a pet, include vaccination records and any specific medical information.
Emergency Contacts: Lists of contacts both at home and abroad.

Medicines

Caring for your health is just as crucial as managing your documents when relocating abroad. To ensure you're fully prepared, it's essential to organize your necessary medicines. Below is a checklist of the types of medicines you should consider adding to your moving abroad packing list.

Medication List: Compile a detailed list of all the medications you're currently taking. Include the names, dosages, and instructions for each. This list can be invaluable in case you need to consult with local healthcare professionals.
Prescriptions: Ensure you have an ample supply of your prescribed medications to cover your initial period abroad.
Over-the-counter (OTC) Medications: Pack common OTC medications for minor ailments such as pain relievers, cold medicine, and digestive aids. Familiarize yourself with the local names for these medicines in your destination country.
Health Insurance: Review your health insurance coverage and understand how it applies abroad. Consider purchasing international health insurance to ensure comprehensive coverage during your stay.
Local Healthcare Information: Research and note down the contact information for healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and local doctors or clinics in your new area.

The must-have item on your moving abroad packing list

Pack a compact and lightweight first aid kit to address your emergency needs. This kit contains all the essential items for personal first aid, ensuring you're prepared without occupying excessive space in your luggage.[lasso id="13043" link_id="7753" ref="amzn-swiss-safe-survival-first-aid-kit-pocket-sized-pouch-lightweight-compact-with-dual-zippers-64-piece" type="image"]

Clothing

Creating a packing list for moving abroad is crucial, especially when it comes to clothing and shoes, which often occupy the majority of your luggage space. As you prepare for your new adventure, it's essential to be discerning about the items you choose to pack.

Start by selecting your favorite clothes that you know you'll wear frequently. Keep in mind the country you're relocating to—sometimes, it might be more cost-effective to purchase new clothes upon arrival instead of paying for extra baggage.

If you're moving during the winter, remember that bulky coats can consume a substantial portion of your luggage space. Using compression bags might be your best solution.

To plan effectively, create a list of the clothes and shoes you intend to bring and assess their practicality for your destination. If certain items aren't suitable, it's advisable to leave them behind.

Ultimately, there's no need to pack clothes and shoes that you won't wear while living abroad.

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Packing Cubes

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Compression Packing Cubes

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Compression Bags

Essential Tops: Choose shirts or blouses that could be layered or worn alone.
Bottoms: Pack your favorite bottoms like trousers and jeans in classic styles that can be mixed and matched effortlessly.
Undergarments: Consider thermal clothing for colder climates, and ensure you have an adequate supply of underwear and socks.
Accessories: Accessories like belts, scarves, and hats that complement your look.
Outerwear: Cover various weather conditions with a well-chosen selection of jackets and coats.
Footwear: Curate a set of shoes that balance comfort and style, including versatile white shoes and other essentials.

Toiletries

Toiletries are items that offer both convenience and comfort when relocating abroad. While it's true that most countries have readily available toiletries, having your trusted favorites can provide a sense of routine and familiarity in your new surroundings. It's also practical to have a basic set prepared for immediate use upon arrival, eliminating the need for a rushed trip to the store.

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These are the travel items you'll need for packing your toiletries while saving space in your bag.

When it comes to toiletries, there's no need to overload your luggage. These essentials are widely accessible at your destination, making it more convenient to purchase most of them after you arrive. Instead, focus on packing the essentials needed for the initial phase of your journey.

Here are some toiletry essentials for your moving abroad packing list:

Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Dental floss
Sunscreen
Tweezers and nail clippers
Lip balm
Skincare products
Moisturizer
Makeup
Menstruation supplies
Deodorant

Electronics

Staying connected while living abroad is important. These electronic items will help you stay in touch with loved ones and navigate your new home. Electronics are highly valuable items and it's understandable when you don't want to leave those behind.

The focus of this list will be the electronics that you can carry in your luggage on your way to your new home abroad.

Laptop/Tablet: Your essential for work, entertainment, and communication.
Unlocked Smartphone: Ensure it allows you to use local SIM cards or eSIM for hassle-free communication.
Smartwatch or Fitness Tracker: Stay active and monitor your health during your travels.

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Power bank, Portable Charger

Keep your devices charged on the go with this portable battery.[lasso id="13077" link_id="7765" ref="amzn-anker-portable-charger-power-bank-20000mah-battery-pack-with-poweriq-technology-and-usb-c-recharging-only-for-iphone-15-15-plus-15-pro-15-pro-max-iphone-14-13-12-series-samsung-galaxy-black" type="button"]

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Travel Adapter or Voltage Converter

Depending on your destination, you may need adapter plugs to plug your devices into different types of outlets. Also, consider a voltage converter if your electronics are not compatible with the local voltage.[lasso id="13078" link_id="7767" ref="amzn-travel-adapter-universal-all-in-one-worldwide-travel-adapter-power-converters-wall-charger-ac-power-plug-adapter-with-dual-usb-charging-ports-for-usa-eu-uk-aus-black" type="button"]

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Noise-Cancelling Headphones

Great for blocking out background noise during flights or in noisy environments.[lasso id="13080" link_id="7769" ref="amzn-sony-wh-1000xm5-the-best-wireless-noise-canceling-headphones-with-auto-noise-canceling-optimizer-crystal-clear-hands-free-calling-and-alexa-voice-control-silver" type="button"]

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e-Reader

If you're an avid reader, an e-reader can save space compared to physical books. Alternatively, consider bringing 1 or 2 of your favorite books, depending on your available space.[lasso id="13085" link_id="7788" ref="amzn-kindle-2022-release-the-lightest-and-most-compact-kindle-now-with-a-6-300-ppi-high-resolution-display-and-2x-the-storage-without-lockscreen-ads-black" type="button"]

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Camera

Capture memories with your digital camera or go retro with an instant camera like the FujiFilm Instax Mini. Perfect for photography enthusiasts and creating tangible snapshots of your adventures.[lasso id="13088" link_id="7790" ref="amzn-fujifilm-instax-mini-12-instant-camera-lilac-purple" type="button"]

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External Hard Drive

Capture memories with your digital camera or go retro with an instant camera like the FujiFilm Instax Mini. Perfect for photography enthusiasts and creating tangible snapshots of your adventures.[lasso id="13089" link_id="7792" ref="amzn-seagate-portable-2tb-external-hard-drive-hdd-usb-3-0-for-pc-mac-playstation-xbox-1-year-rescue-service-stgx2000400" type="button"]

Comfort items

Moving overseas is an exciting experience, but it's only natural to feel homesick from time to time. Amidst the excitement of new experiences, there may be moments when you long for the familiar comforts of home and the connections to your loved ones who may be far away. Consider bringing along a few sentimental items that can serve as a source of comfort.

Moving and Packing Services

When it comes to relocating abroad, optimizing your available space is crucial, especially if you plan to utilize professional moving and packing services. The cost of your move often depends on the quantity and size of your belongings.

These companies are recognized for their expertise in international relocation and have helped individuals and families make a smooth transition to their new homes abroad. When choosing a moving and packing service, consider your specific needs and budget to select the one that aligns best with your requirements.

Explore the top moving companies and take the time to review their offerings and pricing. Additionally, consider choosing a moving company that provides reliable moving insurance for added peace of mind.

Moving Abroad Packing Tips: Simplify Your Life and Stay Organized

While searching for travel tips can be exciting, it's equally important to gather some insights on efficient packing. Consider this as an opportunity to simplify your life as you prepare for your move abroad!

Here are some practical tips to help you get organized:

Start downsizing: Before you begin packing, take a moment to downsize your belongings. Assess what you genuinely need and what you can part with. Donate, sell, or discard items that won't have a place in your new home.
Invest in Quality Luggage: Investing in durable and well-designed luggage can make a significant difference in your packing and traveling experience. Choose luggage that suits your needs and is easy to maneuver.
Begin Packing Early: Give yourself at least a week before your departure date to start packing your luggage. This generous timeframe allows you to carefully sort through your items, make any necessary purchases, and avoid last-minute rushing.
Label Your Belongings: Clearly label your luggage and boxes with your name, contact information, and destination address. This can be immensely helpful in case your belongings are lost or misplaced.
Eliminate Excess: It's common to overpack, especially on your first move abroad. Be conscious of the items you're considering bringing and ask yourself if they are truly essential. Strive for a streamlined and efficient packing strategy, focusing on items that will serve you best in your new home.
Maintain Lists: Keep an ongoing list of the items you need to pack to ensure nothing important is left behind. For instance, clothing is a fundamental part of your moving abroad packing list. Consider creating a separate checklist specifically for the clothes you intend to bring. This will help you stay organized and minimize the risk of forgetting anything.
Pack a Travel Essentials Kit: Put together a small kit with travel essentials like a travel-sized first aid kit, reusable water bottle, travel pillow, and travel adapter. Having these items readily available can make your journey more comfortable.

Moving abroad is a thrilling adventure that opens up a world of possibilities. I hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights and practical tips to make your move abroad smoother and more organized.

Keep in mind that when it comes to packing for an international move, careful planning and consideration are key. Take into account your destination, climate, and the duration of your stay. Consider the essential travel documents, clothing, electronics, toiletries, and first aid items you'll need to bring along.

Moving Abroad Packing List: 39+ Essential Items to Prevent Hassles

Karen Roldan

Moving Abroad Packing List Considerations