Planning to move abroad? Use our tips to take only the essentials and not to forget anything important

For many expats, moving abroad can be the biggest adventure of their lives. However, it is easy to get bogged down in endless to-do lists when preparing for drastic changes. To prepare for the trip is not an ordeal, you should start it a few weeks, preferably months, before the planned date of departure. Also, you should start packing already prepared. If you are inexperienced in moving, you can take a lot of unnecessary things and forget something badly needed.

We have prepared a series of tips to help you decide what you should take with you, what you can sell before the trip, and what you should keep.

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What do I need to take with me when I move abroad?

First of all, you need to calculate and think about what would be cheaper - to bring things to the new country of residence or to buy other things there. Many experienced expats choose to travel with as little stuff as possible, sometimes even packing as if they were going on vacation, getting rid of everything old and starting a new life in a new country. However, if you are planning to prepare for your move, here is a basic list:

Clothes

When preparing clothes for the move, consider what kind of clothes are appropriate for your future country. For example, if you are moving to a warm country, winter warm jackets are unnecessary. If moving to colder countries - prepare warm clothes and thermal underwear.

It's also a good idea to take clothes you'll need for the first few months, because then you'll find a job and be able to buy new clothes.

Pack your clothes in a vacuum to save precious space.

Documents

Take absolutely every document you have with you, including your high school diploma, employment history, medical and immunization cards for your child, birth certificates, marriage certificate, legal and insurance documents. It is impossible to anticipate what documents you will need in another country. Take them in your carry-on luggage, rather than pack them in your suitcase so that you don't accidentally lose them.

First aid kit

Gather the medicines you take most often, so that you have enough for the first time.

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Travel and health insurance

To obtain a residence permit and to stay comfortably abroad, you should take care of your health insurance before you move. This policy will protect the expat from unexpected expenses and guarantee qualified medical care abroad.

Gadgets and Electronics

Don't forget to take important gadgets like phones, laptops, and tablets. Back up your computer before you travel so that if your device is lost or damaged you won't lose information. Also, make sure your electronics are compatible with the output voltage in the country you are visiting. 

Something to remember

Family heirlooms, photos, souvenirs, items that will remind you of your home country.

Books in your native language.

If you are traveling with a child or just like to read, take care of books in your native language, because they will be difficult to find abroad.

Items related to your hobby

For example, if you play the guitar, you will want to take it with you. It is quite practical to take items related to your hobby with you when you move abroad.

Household items

A few things can help make homesickness easier to bear. You can take, for example, your bedding, a favorite poster, a blanket, etc. Pack things in a vacuum to save space.

Children's Toys

When moving with your child, take his or her favorite toys with you. With familiar items, it will be easier for your child to cope with the stress of moving.

Take less cosmetics and hygiene products, because everything can be purchased in the new country.

What items should I sell before I travel?

Before you travel, consider selling: kitchen appliances (toaster, microwave, refrigerator), TV, sound and entertainment systems, children's furniture, etc.

Books, CDs, clothes, and shoes can be given to friends or charities.

A general rule of thumb is that if you have not used an item in the last six months, you don't need it.

What should I keep?

If you are planning to return to your country of origin, or if you don't know what you will need in your new home, it is best to keep certain things. These include your closet, bed, sofas, other heavy and bulky furniture, photo albums, and personal mementos. You can store with relatives or friends, or you can turn to special campaigns.

What else needs to be done before you move?

Before you travel, you should have a general medical examination and take basic tests, because it may be difficult for you to quickly understand the medical system of another country. Also see a dentist if necessary.

Get a haircut, manicure, and cosmetic treatment at your favorite masseur.

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Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Medical insurance all over the world;

Legal advice from a local specialist on visa and migration issues (to receive the service, select the country of interest and citizenship).

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