Moving to a foreign land is a thrilling and life-changing experience, but packing can be so stressful. Between deciding what to pack and what not to pack, packing light, and preparing for a new way of living, it's simple to feel overwhelmed. Fortunately, with a bit of planning and strategy, you can pack like a pro and worry free. Have a look at this exhaustive guide with helpful tips and hacks to assist you in packing for your globally transpired move with confidence.
Be Prepared; What to do and how to do it
Leaving packing to the last minute is one of the greatest mistakes people make when moving abroad. You need to plan minimum 6-8 weeks before the date of departure. Start with preparing a list of everything you will need, depending on the climate, culture, and lifestyle you anticipate at your destination. Make lists of basic needs, items to donate, give aways, and items to keep in storage.
TIP: To keep an inventory of what you pack in each suitcase or box, create a spread sheet or download an inventory app. This will facilitate the ease of unpacking and will come in handy in case anything is misplaced during the relocation.
STUDY DESTINATION
Being more acquainted with your destination can help you avoid over- and under-packing and forgetting some essential things. Study the climate, living standards, the brands, voltage, and the culture of the area:
Clothing: Are you required to wear warm clothes all year round or during winter? What is the cultural dress code?
Appliances: Do your electronics have the voltage? Do people find it easier to purchase kitchen tools there?
Medical Needs: Is it easy to get your prescription medicine or not?
Declutter Judiciously
Moving internationally can be pricey, and the more you pack, the more money it's likely to set you back. Take this relocation as an opportunity to declutter:
Exchange or sell the clothes you did not wear during the last year.
Go for Documents and Photo Digitalization.
Part with books and big stuff, unless it is special — and can't really be bought again.
Hint: Use the one-year rule--i.e. you have not used it in the earlier year, and you hence do not require it.
Put the Pack in Your Carry-On
Your luggage may go missing or be delayed on the plane. Your must-haves should be in a carry-on:
Passport, visa, and valuable papers.
Prescription medications.
Power chargers and adapters.
Change of costume.
Travel-sized toiletries.
Low end hygiene merchandise and food.
A tiny folder of photocopies of your passport, your travel insurance and your emergency contacts.
The Right Packing Strategy
Pack wisely to organize a maximum number of things in a minimum amount of space to maintain your possessions safe:
Roll clothing to take less space and to have fewer wrinkles.
Organize the items into one of the packing cubes that belong to categories or seasons.
Put toiletries in leak proof bags to prevent messes.
Delicates should be wrapped in clothing or bubble wrap.
On each bag or box, put your name and contact information, address that you are moving to.
Tip: Ensure that each bag weighs as you prepare to go to the airport to avoid bad surprises and avoid paying extra charges at the airport.
What/When to Ship vs. Packing List
In case you have long-term move, you can consider shipping some of your items rather than flying with them:
Pack: Wearable, miniature electronics, nostalgic, and necessities.
Ship: Furniture, appliances in the kitchen, books or holiday decorations.
Store: Things you do not need yet which you cannot bear to lose forever.
Tip: Before settling on an international shipping company, compare: insurance offered by the companies, delivery schedule.
Learn about the Customs and Import Regulations
What can be brought in varies in each country. Others limit or impose high taxes on imported commodities such as electronics, alcohol or even food:
Go to the customs web site of your destination, to see what is banned.
It is advisable not to put forbidden products to prevent fines or confiscation.
Ensure that you keep a receipt of highly valued items just in case custom officers demand.
Tip: When traveling with pets, read up on the rules of special travel procedures such as vaccination and quarantine conditions.
Get Ready for the Initial Weeks
You might not be able to get your items that you ship immediately, so pack a starter kit including items you will need as soon as you are through:
Bed sheets and towels.
Light dishes or cutlery.
The most basic toiletries and cleaning supplies.
SIM card or Mobile Hot spot Local.
Tip: Try to pack this kit in your checked baggage or purchase some of them the moment you arrive.
Embrace Minimalism
Less can be more when relocating to another country. Be concerned with loading multifunctional items that are versatile. The goal should be to have a versatile wardrobe and quality over quantity.
Hint: It is important to keep in mind that a lot of things can be purchased when you arrive in your new home — notably the clothes compatible with the environment and style.
Final Thoughts
International move does not have to have stressful packing. With proper planning in advance, careful scaling back, and with the proper techniques of packing you can make moving much easier and a pleasure to get through. The point is to remember that you do not need to come to your new home with your entire life, but with the things that you will really need to begin a new life and succeed there. Smart packing is your initial key to successful relocation, whether you are going for a job, studying, or even having an adventure.
