8 Things You Will Wish You Had Packed For Your Big Move Overseas

Moving overseas can be a scary but exciting proposition, and with so many details to keep in mind, it’s hard to know where to begin. But one of the first steps is ensuring you have all the essentials packed for your big move.

It’s always best to prepare ahead of time so that everything is remembered when it comes time to board the plane or boat!

We’ve compiled eight must-have items ranging from electronics and wardrobe staples that may not initially come to mind but will make transitioning through customs much smoother and set you up for success in your new home.

8 Things You Will Wish You Had Packed For Your Big Move Overseas

#1. Your Car

One area of particular importance for those looking to live abroad is transportation, with cars often being the most reliable and cost-effective option.

For ex-pats especially, financing a car in another country can be a demanding task, if not impossible, due to restrictive requirements or low credit ratings. Also, don’t forget to check if you will need an international driving permit in your desired country.

Therefore, it is well advised that one take their car with them if they are planning to move overseas, as this will save you a considerable headache in searching for an affordable replacement.

Use auto transport to deliver your car to your new home

The added task of figuring out how to get your car to the other side of the world adds to the stress.

Thankfully, you don’t have to make space in your suitcases for your steering wheel – instead, look into auto transport carriers. They are explicitly designed to safely ship cars overseas, so you can rest easy that your reliable vehicle is in good hands.

From freight services to open carriers, companies specializing in international auto transport have many options for you depending on factors like budget and timeline.

Don’t let the daunting idea of moving a car across an ocean discourage you from pursuing your international dreams; trust auto transport carriers to get it done accurately and effectively! Just put this into your travel budget, and you’ll be thankful you did. 

#2. Copies of your passport and visa

Another important step in making sure your move is as stress-free as possible is having copies of your passport and visa wherever you go.

Taking photocopies of these items, or keeping digital versions on a secure drive, means you don’t have to worry about losing access to essential documents if something ever happened to your originals.

Planning for the best and worst-case scenarios will make settling in overseas much more accessible and allow you to get back up and run again quickly without too many extra headaches.

#3. Comfort items for your long flight

Bring snacks and comfortable items to make your long plane ride more bearable when moving overseas. It may seem like an excessive choice – after all, the airplane does offer a meal!

But having a backup option for your favorite snack or comfort item can be invaluable when dealing with airplane food. Pack lightweight food yet filling that won’t take up too much room in your bag, so you don’t have to worry about checking in any extra luggage.

Having something to look forward to, like a special candy or soft blanket, will do wonders for keeping stress levels low during the flight and help make your traveling experience smooth and enjoyable from start to finish.

while travelling oversees, you would want to also check out 5 Books That Will Inspire Your Next Adventure.

#4. Money – notify your credit and debit card holders that you’re moving

When preparing to move overseas, one of the most important steps is to inform your credit card companies about your plans. Doing this ahead of time will ensure that you can make secure transactions overseas without any issues arising.

As well as informing them, it is also necessary to double-check that the company offers international transaction capabilities on their specific cards, as some may not support certain countries.

Assuming everything is in order, ensuring your credit card companies know about your plans ahead of time is essential for successful transactions abroad.

#5. A list of contacts, including family and friends in the area, doctors, lawyers, etc.

Moving overseas can be intimidating, but having a list of contacts and resources in the new area can help ease the transition.

Whether moving for business or pleasure, friends and family already living in the area provide support and companionship to help make any new destination feel like a home away from home.

In addition, creating contacts with local doctors, lawyers, banks, or other associated professionals will be necessary if emergencies or challenging legal situations arise. It may also be beneficial to locate nearby schools or churches to get involved with the local community faster.

Bringing some contacts before departure will make the transition overseas much less stressful than attempting it alone.

#6. Your laptop and charger, plus electric plug adaptors

One of the essentials you should add to your list of things to bring is your laptop, plus the charger and electric plug adaptors for any location.

Carrying your laptop with its accessories overseas will be handy for keeping in contact with family, searching for roles in a new country, or even just unwinding with entertainment. Don’t forget this vital item amongst the chaos of house-selling and packing; you’ll thank yourself later!

#7. Your prescription medication

One key element for anyone heading to a foreign country is to ensure that you have enough prescription medication for the duration of your trip. Even if you have access to medical care abroad, if the medicines you need are unavailable in the country, it will be essential to bring them home.

Don’t forget to ensure that any medications you take are legally allowed in the country by checking any online travel advisories.

Traveling with prescriptions will make it easier for you and any healthcare professionals you may encounter while on your journey.

#8. Some of your favorite foods from home

Moving overseas is an exciting experience, and many people look forward to the new activities, cultures, and hospitality they’ll discover in their new homes.

To ensure that you adjust to your new environment quickly and easily, you can take some of your favorite foods from home!

This will give you a taste of home no matter where you are in the world and keep you happy during the transition between homes.

Packets of mixes, spices, sauces, snacks, and canned goods come in small packages, so they won’t add much weight to your luggage or change any plans for customs.

Moving overseas is a daunting experience, but it doesn’t have to be! With proper planning and packing, the transition can be made much more accessible.

All the above items will help you settle quickly and comfortably in your new home. So make sure to add these eight must-have items to your list as you prepare for your big move abroad!