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Decide what to pack when relocate to a different country

Updated: Mar 3



Packing for an international relocation requires strategic planning to decide what is essential and worth the cost of shipping.


Here’s a guide to help streamline the packing process:-


1. Evaluate Your Needs vs. New Location

  • Climate: Consider the weather of your destination and prioritize seasonally appropriate clothing. For instance, if you're moving somewhere warm, you can leave heavy winter clothes behind.

  • Housing: If you’re moving to a furnished home or a country where household goods are easily accessible and affordable, consider leaving bulky items like furniture behind.


2. Pack Essentials

  • Clothing: Pack versatile and seasonal clothing. Think about the essentials for both work and daily activities, plus any unique items like professional attire.

  • Documents: Include important documents such as passports, visas, birth certificates, medical and dental records, financial records, insurance policies, and any legal documents.

  • Personal Care Items: Familiar toiletries and personal care products can be packed, but consider that many items are available internationally.

  • Electronics and Adapters: Bring necessary devices (laptop, phone, camera), chargers, and universal adapters. Check if your electronics will be compatible with the new country’s voltage.


3. Sentimental and Irreplaceable Items

  • Family Photos and Mementos: Bring sentimental items that can’t be replaced, especially if they’re small and lightweight.

  • Important Jewelry or Keepsakes: If they have significant value or meaning, they may be worth packing, but consider secure ways to transport them.

  • Artwork and Collectibles: Decide if these are worth the hassle and cost of shipping, as they can often be heavy and fragile.


4. Work and Education Essentials

  • Work-Related Items: If working remotely, pack essential office items like a laptop, notebook, important files, and any needed tools.

  • Children’s Items: Pack favorite toys, books, or educational items that might help children feel more at home in a new environment.


5. Decide on Larger Items

  • Furniture and Large Appliances: Typically, it's easier and often cheaper to buy new or second-hand furniture in the destination country unless it's a high-value piece or something unique.

  • Kitchen Items: Some specialty cooking tools may be worth packing if they are essential to your cooking style and hard to find abroad.


6. Health and Wellness Items

  • Prescriptions and Health Records: Bring any required prescriptions in adequate quantities and obtain copies of your medical records if possible.

  • Specialized Health Devices: Bring small items like a blood pressure monitor or other essential health devices if needed, as these may vary by availability or cost abroad.


7. Temporary Essentials Kit

  • Pack a Travel Kit: Include essential items (clothing, toiletries, basic kitchen items, bedding, etc.) to sustain you for a few weeks while waiting for your larger shipment to arrive. This can also help you if your shipment is delayed.


8. What to Leave Behind

  • Bulky or Easily Replaceable Items: Leave behind old clothes, books, unnecessary appliances, or items that you can easily find in your new location.

  • Unnecessary Paperwork: Digitize paperwork wherever possible to save space.

  • Prohibited or Regulated Items: Avoid packing items that are restricted in the destination country, such as certain foods, plants, or weaponry.


9. Organize Shipping vs. Luggage

  • Shipping Box: Divide items based on urgency. Ship non-urgent items and pack essentials in checked or carry-on luggage. If using sea freight, be prepared for longer wait times for large shipments.


Planning your packing in these categories helps create a more manageable, efficient move and ensures you only bring items that add real value to your life abroad.

 
 
 

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