Moving Abroad Packing Guide

By InternationalMovers.com Staff

You're going to college - how exciting. What is even better is you're moving abroad for your higher education. According to Smart Money.com, going to college abroad is a lot cheaper and quicker than traditional universities in the U.S. Not only that, you will be stepping outside of your comfort zone as you experience a new culture and meet new people. With all of those benefits, it's obvious that you have made the right decision about your international move. Once the excitement wears off a bit, its time to get organized by researching international moving companies, sort through your belongings and start packing.

1. Clothing: We all need clothing - whether you are going to a school in Canada or a school in Mexico -- but with this relocation abroad you should pack according to the season. So if you are moving to England, you should pack raingear or if you are moving to Mexico you will most likely not need your goose down winter jacket. While you are away you should also try not to look like a tourist. You will want to acclimate to your new area and not stick out so avoid bringing baseball caps with team logos and jerseys from your favorite American team.
   
   
   • Rain boots
   • Flip-flops
   • Sneaker
   • Rain jacket
   • Under garments
   • Socks
   • A light jacket and a heavy coat (depending on the location)
   • Bathing suit
   • A hat
   • Two to three pairs of shorts
   • One formal outfit
   • Three to five T-shirts
   • Two to three pairs of jeans
   • Two sweaters or sweatshirts
   
   
   
2. Toiletries: If you are used to using a specific product from the U.S. you should be sure you pack it for your trip (or maybe even more than one version). Also, be sure to bring a two to three month supply of medications and ask your doctor about how to obtain refills or obtain referrals to a new doctor.
   
   
   • Prescription medications
   • Toothbrush and toothpaste
   • Travel-size shampoo and conditioner in small containers (purchase more abroad)
   • Hair brush or comb
   • Razor blades
   • Sunscreen
   • Cosmetics
   • Contacts and contact solution
   • Sunglasses and eyeglasses
   • Deodorant
   • First Aid kit
   • Bedding (if not provided by the school)
   • Towels
   
   
   
3. Important Documents: Perhaps one of the most important items to pack (aside from your underwear) is your personal information such as your visa and passport. Double-check, no triple check before moving day that you have your passport, visa, IDs, money (but not too much), etc. You don't want to be at the airport and have to return home because of a missing piece of paperwork.
   
   
   • Current passport and visas
   • Plane tickets
   • International student identity card
   • Driver's license or another form of ID
   • Cash, traveler's checks, credit cards, calling card, etc.
   • Copy of your admissions letter
   • Addresses, fax numbers and telephone numbers of your new university and study abroad advisor
   
   
   
4. Other Items: There is always more stuff that you can bring to your international move; but be wary of over packing. Some important extra items include: batteries, a small alarm clock, a watch, a few guidebooks or books.
   
   
   • Small computer or netbook
   • Notebook
   • Small camera
   • Pictures of family and friends
   • Travel guides, maps and train schedules
   • Batteries
   • Books or magazines (to read on plane)
   • Small alarm clock
   • iPod or device to listen to music
   • Adapter and voltage converter
   
   
   

No need to fret if there is something that you forgot to pack; you can always purchase what you need abroad. This is just a basic list to get you started for your international moving experience.

More Resources for Your International Move:

• International Moving Checklist
• Getting Organized for Your International Move