What to Pack When Making an International Move

Moving to a new international location can be as exciting as it is daunting, and knowing what to bring ahead of time can ultimately contribute to quelling the formidable thoughts of moving so far away. It is crucial to bring the correct items with you when you move to a new country as you’ll be unable to take a quick and simple drive to retrieve them when you notice they are missing. You’ll want to bring out the things you need to bring with you and contact a variety of international moving companies to determine the extent of what they can carry to your new home.

When it comes to packing smartly for a big move, there are certain items you should always bring. Here are some of the most common and essential items you’ll want to ensure you have in your bags, ready to go!

 

Personal documents

When you are leaving on an extensive excursion, you’ll want to ensure you have everything you need, including the appropriate personal documents. At some point during your big trip, you’ll need to prove your identity, and without some of these documents at your immediate disposal, you could get stranded at the airport! The most apparent document required at every airport is your passport, but other certificates could be needed when you move into a brand new country. Some of the requirements certifications and documents include:

  • Visa information
  • Birth certificate
  • Doctor notices regarding prescriptions
  • Immunization records
  • Medical records
  • Marriage certificate
  • Tax information
  • Health records for your pets

Of course, some of the documentation listed might not be needed. All of this is dependent on the country you are entering that will have specific requirements, something you will need to research beforehand.

 

Travel documents

Just as important as personal documents you must take with you on a trip are travel documents that are all a part of the process to get you where you need to be. According to the Canadian government website, some of the travelling documentation you will need to travel can include:

  • Passports
  • Travel number
  • Certification of citizenship in your home country
  • Documentation is needed if you’re bringing your car outside the country
  • International driving permit

 

Medicines

It’s always important to fill up your prescription medications before you travel anywhere, and you will need to locate a pharmacist nearby in your new destination for your own convenience. But before you fill up your prescriptions, you should check if the medications you plan to bring are permitted and legally allowed in the country you’re moving to. Certain regulations on medicines exist in different areas, so these regulations are well worth researching.

 

Clothing

Clothing is an obvious necessity when you’re travelling to any place for a long period of time, and your clothes are an essential addition when you’re relocating to a new location. But depending on the country you’re travelling to, you will need factor in the climate and adjust your clothing options accordingly. For example, if the weather in your location you’re headed to is warmer than it is cold, it would be wise to bring and invest in breathable tops and pants while also getting a windbreaker.

 

Toiletries

Although you may expect basic toiletries to be available within your new destination, you can save money and time by bringing your own items. To maximize your comfort when you land in a new country, you should bring the following toiletries in your bag:

  • Deodorant
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Floss
  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Skincare products
  • Sunscreen
  • Feminine hygiene products

 

Technology

Whether you’re moving for school, work, or to immerse yourself in a new location and culture, you’ll want to bring your tech gadgets for convenience, to keep in contact with family and friends, and to help you settle into your new home. Although you’ll doubtfully forget your laptop and cellphone when you make such a drastic move, you should remember to also bring a power adapter, an external hard drive, headphones, and a portable charger.

 

Personal items

While moving to a new location is undoubtedly an exciting experience, feelings of homesickness can bubble up during your travels. To quell these feelings and help you feel more comfortable in your new home, you should make room in your bags to bring items reminiscent of your home. This can include a piece of jewellery, a blanket from childhood, photos of your family and friends, or your favourite books, physical copies of movies and records.