What to Pack When Moving Abroad
9/7/2025
Moving abroad is exciting, but packing can feel overwhelming. What should you bring? What’s just extra weight? Three years ago, when I moved to Spain, I quickly learned that bringing too much can be as stressful as bringing too little. In this post, I’ll share what I packed, what I left behind, and tips to make your move smoother.
1. Essentials You Can’t Live Without
These are the items you’ll really need in the first weeks:
Important documents: passport, visa, ID, medical records.
Bank & credit cards + some cash in local currency.
Electronics: phone, laptop, chargers.
Basic clothing: enough for 2–3 weeks to start with.
Medications & toiletries for the first week.
💭 Tip: Keep essentials in your carry-on if flying, you’ll need them immediately upon arrival.
2. Pack Smart, Not Heavy
Layering clothes instead of bulky items saves space.
Neutral colors mix and match easily.
Roll, don’t fold - saves space and reduces wrinkles.
Multipurpose items: one scarf can be a blanket, pillow, or accessory.
💭 When I moved, I overpacked shoes, I only wore 2 pairs regularly.
3. Things to Leave Behind
Books & heavy items — buy locally or download e-books.
Decorations — you’ll make the new place your own.
Old electronics — too bulky, outdated, or unnecessary.
Stuff you “might need someday” — better to live without for a while.
💭 I left behind 3 big boxes of clothes I never missed, and it felt liberating.
4. Packing for Your Comfort Zone & Adventure
Some personal items help you feel at home:
Photos or small mementos.
Favorite snacks from home (especially if they’re hard to find).
A small journal, great for documenting your first days.
💭 I kept a tiny notebook for my first diary entries abroad, looking back, it’s priceless.
5. Tips for Moving Abroad Like a Pro
Make a packing list weeks in advance.
Check baggage limits if flying — it saves huge stress.
Consider shipping items separately if needed.
Leave space for things you’ll buy locally — souvenirs, kitchenware, clothes.
Final Thoughts
Packing isn’t just about bringing the right things, it’s about mindset. You’ll survive without most of what you think you need, and every item you leave behind creates space for new experiences.
👉 Want to turn your dream of living abroad into action?
Grab the free 5-step guide here!
Hi, I’m Romy
Three years ago, I moved to Spain with no plan but a strong feeling. I chose to follow my gut rather than look back with regret. I believe the best lessons come when you step out of your comfort zone. Now, I share my experiences, practical tips, and the tools I wish I had, hoping to inspire others to take the leap and start their own adventure.