How to pack for moving abroad

A cikk írója: katie fcloseAuthor: katie f Name: Katie Farrell
Email: kfar53@gmail.com
Site: http://kfar.blogspot.com
About: Katie is currently an expat living in Budapest. She comes originally amongst the vineyards of Niagara in Canada but has found herself feeling at home in several other places around the world too. With a degree in Cultural Studies from Trent University, Katie is constantly digesting/criticizing/de-constructing the world around her. If she could eat one food for the rest of her life it would be avocados.See Authors Posts (3)

It’s tricky to know what to bring and what to leave at home when you’re moving abroad. You can’t take everything and it’s hard to really decide what’s important and what’s not. Trying to remember all the essential items while not packing too much is more than just a little tricky! There are however, some staple items which shouldn’t be over-looked.

• Backpacks

Proper packs are an investment but its well worth it. While you’re living abroad it’s certain that you’ll take side trips and have the chance to travel. Bring a good pack that can double as an overnight bag and a smaller hip bag is also useful. Don’t worry, fanny packs are surprisingly in fashion again (who knew!).

• Clothing

Lay out all the clothes you’d like to take with you on your bed at home. Then divide the pile by half. Put half back into your drawers and closet and the other half in your backpack. You will need less than you think and you’re likely to want to pick up on some of the local fashion while you’re abroad as well. Choose clothes that are both comfortable and versatile, especially pieces that mix-and-match well or can be dressed-up easily.

Don’t forget a bathing suit! You’ll never know when you’ll need it and takes up a mere sliver of space. Budapest for example is famous for its thermal baths, especially in winter and it’s an experience you wont want to miss out on.

As for footwear, limit the pairs you bring. This is just a suggestion but you’ll probably manage just fine with one pair of athletic shoes, one pair of sandals and one pair of street sneakers. If you need a pair of heels, buy them abroad.

• Notebook / Sketchbook / Scrapbook

This blank papered book will be a treasure later even if you’re not in the habit of keeping a journal at home. It doesn’t need to be stiff, get creative! Use it to write down your experiences, glue ticket stubs and maps, include sketches, observances about the culture, work experiences, photos and keep track of the latest slang you’ve learnt, etc.

• Digital or analogue, cameras are essential

Light weight and good quality cameras are easy to find and are quite affordable also. Choose one that is smaller, making it easy to bring with you everywhere. From experience, it’s not always convenient to have a clunker of an SLR while going here or there. You can get amazingly good quality shots with a simple camera and you won’t be spotted as such a tourist! Don’t forget a large memory card and the cord that connects to your computer (or card reader) so you can upload them frequently. As for film, bring a few rolls to get you started. Don’t pack it in your checked luggage as the x-ray machines will damage it.

Keep your family/friends in the loop and post your photos often on Facebook or a blog!

• Swiss army knife

Once you start carrying a multi-tool you’ll see exactly how useful it is. Just remember to pack it into your checked-luggage, not in your carry on at the airport. Leatherman and Swiss Army are two reliable brands. Needs not be fancy but I have found the corkscrew and little scissors particularly useful in a clinch.

• Toiletries are heavy

You can buy shampoo, soap, tooth paste, hand lotion and floss practically everywhere in the world so leave them at home! They’re heavy and take up much-needed space. Wait until you arrive to buy your supply of personal care products. If you have prescribed items like contact lenses, face creams or washes, then make sure you have enough to cover your entire trip or have a refill ready to be mailed by a very generous friend or family member!

• Electronics and laptops

It’s easy to overload on electronics and other gadgets, some are definitely more useful than others. In general though it’s extremely useful to have your own personal computer while working abroad (of course it depends on your job). If you plan to do freelance jobs or work on personal projects, then bring your laptop from home.

These of course are just the basics and depending on what kind of work you’re planning to do abroad you might end up bringing a lot more or a lot less. Whether you pack your life in a suitcase, duffle or backpack, there is one thing that everyone shouldn’t forget (okay, well there are two things): passport and an open mind. It’s easy to get frustrated but it’s more fun to look at the beauty of every situation. Since you’ve landed yourself a life-changing opportunity, take advantage of it!

Cimkével ellátva: backpacks, how to, moleskin, moving abroad, packing

Akár nyelvtudással, vagy nyelvtudás nélkül keresel külföldi munkát, Érdemes feltölteni önéletrajzod a Lingojob.com portálra. Külföldi állásajánlatok várnak, Európa számos országában.

---