If you're considering making an international move, there are a lot of things to plan and pack and it can be easy to forget an essential item in the hustle of it all.
Whether you're moving for work, school, or just for a change of pace, there's a lot to look forward to in a new country. Before you start packing your bags, there are a few things you'll want to make sure you don't forget. Here are 10 items you'll wish you'd packed for your major international move:
1. Your Passport and Other Important Documents
Before you can start packing your bags, there's one important task that must be completed: acquiring a passport. A passport is a document that allows you to cross international borders and proves that you are a citizen of your country of origin.
Depending on your destination, the documentation requirements can vary, so it's important to do your research in advance. Once you have all the necessary paperwork in order, you can start planning your big move!
2. Your Automobile
One thing you'll definitely wish you'd have brought with you is your car. It may seem like a hassle to have to ship your car, but when you understand the headache that financing abroad is, you'll wish that you had shipped your car.
When you don't have credit history or financial stability in a new country, it can be difficult or even impossible to get approved for a car loan. So unless you have the cash to drop on a new set of wheels, consider shipping your car.
Not only will it make getting around a lot easier, but it will also give you the freedom to explore your new country at your own pace. Having your own car will also mean that you don't have to rely on public transport, which can be notoriously unreliable in some countries. Just be sure to read Easy Auto ship reviews to find a company that is experienced in shipping cars abroad.
3. Your Visas and Work Permits
Before you can hop on an airplane, there's another important step you need to take care of: obtaining the proper visas and work permits. Without these documents, you'll be stuck at the border or unable to start working in your new job.
So before you book your flight, be sure to do some research on the visa requirements of your destination country. In most cases, you'll need to submit an application and supporting documents, such as a passport-sized photo and proof of employment.
4. Vaccination Records
Vaccination records are one of those things that you might not think about adding to your international packing list about until it's too late. But with the recent global pandemic, vaccination records are even more important to pack.
Trust us, you'll want to have them handy when you go to register with a new doctor in your new country. In some cases, a quick call to your old doctor's office should do the trick to get your records sent to your new physician. But it's always better to be safe than sorry and bring a hard copy of your records.
5. An Extra Pair of Glasses or Contact Lenses (if you wear them)
One of the most important things to remember when moving abroad is to pack an extra pair of glasses or contact lenses (if you wear them). This may seem like a small detail, but it can be extremely helpful in case you lose or break your main pair.
It can be difficult to find replacement glasses or contacts in a new country, especially if you have a special prescription or prefer a specific brand of contact lenses. So, save yourself the hassle and pack an extra pair before you go.
6. A Laptop or Tablet
One thing that's often overlooked is what to do with your electronics. After all, your laptop or tablet is a valuable piece of equipment that can help you stay connected to the rest of the world. And while it's true that you can usually find a good selection of laptops and tablets in most major cities, there are some definite advantages to taking your own device with you when you move abroad.
For one thing, you'll be able to use your familiar software and apps, which can make the transition to a new country a little bit easier. And if you have any questions or problems, you can always contact customer support in your native language.
So whether you're moving for work, study, or just for fun, be sure to pack your laptop or tablet. It might just make your new life a little bit easier to bring your own laptop with you.
7. A Map of The Local Area
Unless you're moving to a small town that you're already familiar with, chances are you'll need a map of your new surroundings. Even if you have GPS on your phone, it's always helpful to have a physical map as well.
This way, you can quickly and easily find your way around, even if you lose signal or power. Plus, it can be fun to plan out new routes and adventures with a real map. So, make sure to pack one before you move!
8. A First-Aid Kit
Even if you're the type of person who never gets sick, it's always a good idea to pack a first-aid kit when you move to a new country. Because even if you're in perfect health, there's always the possibility of an accident.
And in a new country, it can be difficult to find the supplies you need to treat minor injuries if you're not familiar with the local pharmacies and medicines. So, to be safe, pack a small first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain reliever.
9. Local Currency or an International Credit Card
If you're moving to a new country, it's important to know who to contact upon arrival and to have an international credit card. This will come in handy for things like taxis, tipping, and small purchases.
It's also always a good idea to have some cash on hand in case of an emergency. So before you leave, make sure to exchange some of your home country's currency into the local currency. And if you're planning on using a credit or debit card, make sure it doesn't have any international transaction fees
10. A Positive Attitude!
Last but not least, one of the most important things to pack when you move abroad is a positive attitude. Because no matter how prepared you are, there will always be challenges when you're living in a new country. But if you approach these challenges with a positive attitude, you'll find that they're much easier to overcome.
Moving abroad can be incredibly rewarding when you're well-prepared. By packing these 10 essential items, you can help ensure that your transition goes as smoothly as possible and that you make the most of your time in your new home away from home!
