Biting the bullet and moving abroad is a massive challenge, so congrats if you’re doing it. This type of move is both exhilarating and frightening. Soon, you’ll be enjoying the fresh start you are looking forward to. However, there are a few steps you have to take before this. One of them is packing. Unfortunately, packing is more stressful than fun. When moving overseas, you’ll have to think about what you really need to bring with you and what you can easily replace once you relocate. This process can be a bit overwhelming, especially if this is your first big move. So, to help you, we made an ultimate guide on what to pack in your essentials bag when moving abroad. Let’s begin!

Important documents

This one is pretty obvious. Still, we tend to forget about these important documents because of the chaotic moving energy. It happens to everybody. However, without some of these documents, we may have to cancel our trip. And nobody wants that additional stress. So, to make your life a little bit easier, we have made a list of the necessary documents you MUST pack in your essentials bag when moving abroad:

• Passport and ID card
• Visa or other required travel documents 
• Birth certificate
• Medical and rental insurance
• Rental agreement 
• Flight tickets

Make sure to put these documents in your travel pack as soon as you gather them all. 

Cash and credit cards

Another obvious thing on the list – but for a reason. Many people think having a credit card is enough. And sometimes it is. However, it’s always good to have a few bucks on you. Additionally, you should change some money into the local currency of the country you’re moving to. You never know what you’ll need once you get there, and they probably won’t accept dollars. So, be smart and pack both cash and your credit cards in the essentials box when moving abroad. Oh, and don’t forget to keep it close to you at all times!

First-aid Kit & Toiletries

One of the most important things you have to pack in your essentials bag is the first-aid kit. Unfortunately, sometimes things go south, and we need to deal with them instantly. This is why having a first-aid kit with you while traveling is not only preferable but imperative!  So, make sure to buy one or make it yourself. Also, don’t forget about medication – standard and prescribed ones. Be sure to pack something for headache, nausea, dizziness, and fever. If you struggle with allergies, remember to put your allergies pack in your essential bag as well.

Another thing you should think about when packing for your move is toiletries. Since moving abroad is a long trip, you’ll definitely need something to freshen up along the way. So, buy the travel-size toiletries you’ll need like toothpaste, dry shampoo, soap, hypoallergenic facial towelettes, and Purell (Corona is still here).

Electronics

Whether we like it or not, electronics are a huge part of our lives. We use it for work, killing time, keeping in touch with our family, or all of the above. Electronics became essential in our lives, and they should be packed in your essentials bag when moving abroad. Here is the list of electronics you don’t want to forget:

• Phone
• Laptop
• Tablet
• Chargers (this is the one we often forget, so make sure to check twice before you go)
• Travel adapters and USB

Sometimes, you may have trouble packing your electronics correctly and worry about them breaking on the road. In that case, YouTube can provide some helpful tips for packing your electronic devices in the right manner. You can also look for professional packing materials and hire professional packing services. This way, you’ll be sure they are safe and sound.

Backup clothes

Traveling overseas is often a longer trip, so make sure to pack backup clothes. This is a must, especially if you have a layover flight and are moving to a country with a different climate. So, check the weather report for the destination you’re traveling to and dress accordingly. Alternatively, bring the clothes for the weather that’s waiting for you and change on the plane. Moreover, if you’re traveling with kids, it would be a good idea to pack some fresh clothes for the first few days as well.

Plain survival kit

This one might not seem so essential, but it is! The process of moving abroad is highly stressful, and you don’t want to feel uncomfortable or annoyed once you’re on a flight to your destination. So, here are some things you have to bring with you on the plane:

• Airplane travel pillow
• Headphones
• Spare charger
• Book (audiobook or the real one) or journal for entertainment
• Earplugs
• Snacks

Food and refreshment 

You’ll stop a few times to rest and eat something along the way, but having some food and refreshment in your essential bag while moving abroad is crucial. A bottle of cold water or a can of soda is a great way to freshen up. When it comes to food, sandwiches are easy and inexpensive to prepare; they last longer, and they will drive the hunger away. If you’re traveling with kids, bring some snacks as well. You can never go wrong with that.

How to gather all the information you need about moving abroad?

Now that we have listed the necessary contents of your essentials bag, let’s see how to gather all the information about this life-changing journey.

Moving abroad is a long and complex process. It requires careful preparation, meticulous organization, and extensive research. Moving to another country comes with many legal challenges. That’s why you’ll need to make some calls if you want everything to go smoothly. This implies gathering information about visa requirements, taxes, insurance policies, financial matters, etc. You’ll have to contact authorities in your state and local authorities in the country you’re moving to. We know it’s hard to reach some of these authorities. However, it’s crucial to be persistent. Your relocation depends on getting this information!

It’s time to move!

Now that you know exactly what to pack in your essentials bag when moving abroad, and you know how to gather all the vital information about this relocation, it’s finally time to hop on that plane! The long and stressful process of planning and organizing has come to an end, and you’re about to reach your final destination. So, put a smile on your face and essentials in your bag, and let’s fly away!