What You Need to Bring When Moving Abroad
By InternationalMovers.com Staff
Congratulations on your big international move! This is no small move you are about to embark on, but one that will certainly be exciting. As you are planning your move, you will need to locate an international moving company, get organized and of course pack.
This type of packing job will be very different as compared to interstate or intrastate move, since you will likely need fewer belongings and have to assess what stays and what goes.
InternationalMovers.com is here to help with our handy moving checklist to help you lighten you load (not to mention save you money on moving day).
Clothes:
Yes, this is an obvious one, but one that should be repeated especially since certain countries will have different clothing requirements. As you are researching your new area, make sure you also research the climate, which of course will determine what you need to pack. For example: if you are moving to Canada, you can expect to experience the four seasons (with more cold than hot seasons). So, if you are moving in January, you should definitely pack jackets, hats, gloves and all of the warm weather gear. Same rings true, if you are moving to a hotter climate, like to Mexico – where you will need shorts and tank tops, and not as much (if any) winter items.
Personal Hygiene Products:
Living in the U.S., you will be surprised at how accustomed you are to certain toiletries that do not exist in other countries or may cost significantly more than what you are used to paying. Make sure you pack enough of your favorite deodorant, vitamins, feminine hygiene products, soaps, etc. For medications it is best to have enough to get you through a few months, and know (beforehand) where you can obtain refills.
Personal Items:
Of course, this move involves starting fresh but that doesn't mean that you aren't going to miss your family and loved ones. Since you are likely going to be very far from them, it is best to bring mementos (small ones, please) such as photos, a memory book and even some of your favorite DVDs. If you are bringing a laptop, this may be a little easier since you can upload numerous pictures and your favorite music on your computer. Having a computer is also a great way to stay connected to loved ones at home where you can talk to them via Skype.
Passports, Visas, Birth Certificate, etc:
You certainly don't want to leave home without these important documents and doing so will prevent you from even entering your new country. Double check -- on moving day -- that your passport, visas and birth certificate are in a safe place, as well as ID cards, money and emergency telephone numbers.
You May Not Need Those Charges and Wires:
Depending on where you are relocating, many countries have different electrical outlets to charge computers, cell phones and any other gadgets. Research this before you go abroad. You may even find that your phone is not compatible in your new country. In that case, it is best to donate that to a friend or family member and purchase a new one upon arrival.
When relocating to a new country, it is best to pack less (unless you are purchasing a home or certain that you are relocating for a long time). Items like kitchen appliances, dishes and tons of clothes and books will only weight down your international move (not to mention cost you big with your international movers!). Take it from us, the old mantra “less is more” certainly applies to international moving and being overwhelmed with clutter is no way to relocate. You can always place items in storage if you are unsure and of course, friends and family are there to watch over your items should you decide you need them shipped.