Top 7 Packing List for Expatriates Relocating Abroad
After you have done your research on your destination country’s healthcare, housing, and job market, you are ready to pack and move. The process of packing and loading can be very stressful and tedious. In this article, we will discuss our top 7 tips for creating the ultimate expat packing list for long-term relocation abroad.
1. Important Records and Documentations
Pack important records and documents such as airline tickets, passports, visas, your children’s school records, shipping documents, medical records, etc. in a safe place. Some crucial documents require both the original and a copy for each of your family members. Please make sure that you have packed you and your family’s:
- Birth certificates
- Passport and Visas
- Medical records
- Health Insurance documentation & card
- Mediation Prescriptions
- Credit Cards
- Immunization records
2. Medical Supplies
Pack medications that you may need as soon as you step on the new city. If you have a medical condition that required continued medication, make sure you pack enough medical supplies. This will save your time and money in finding new substitutes in a new country. Other essential medications include:
- First aid kit – Include essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, scissors, tweezers, and pain relievers
- Anti-allergy medicine
- Sunscreen: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays, especially if you’re moving to a sunnier climate.
- Prescription medicine
- Water purification tablets
- Water Purification Tablets or Filters: – In some developing countries water quality can be suspect, so ensure access to safe drinking water in case local water quality is a concern
- Tylenol for Children’s fever
- Thermometer: A digital thermometer can be helpful for monitoring your health, especially during times of illness
- Travel-sized Hand Sanitizer – Useful for maintaining good hand hygiene, especially when soap and water are not readily available.
3. Electronics
Proper electronics will be a necessity during your trip and expat life. This is especially the case for digital nomads. Please check these essential electronics before you go:
- Flashlight
- Camera
- Home appliances (optional)
- Laptop
- Universal adapter
- Smartphone and Charger – A smartphone is a versatile tool for communication, navigation, and accessing important information. Don’t forget to bring its charger.
- E-Reader
- Camer – sure, your phone has one, but a regular camera can deliver much better images
- Voltage converter
- Portable charger
- Smartphone
- Headphones
4. Clothes
It is important to know not only where you are moving to but also what activities you want to do in your new destination when packing clothes. Below are the suggestions:
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Dresses or Suits
- Bathing suits
- Pyjamas
- Sewing kit
- Disposable towelettes
- Mosquito netting if you are living in a marlaria prone region
- T-shirts
- Winter coats
- Socks & Jeans
5. Shoes
When packing, it is important to consider what footwear will be most appropriate for your various activities and destinations.
Whether you are going to a meeting or hiking Kilimanjaro, it is critical that you plan ahead so you don’t find yourself wearing your trainers to close that deal.
6. Place Large Signs on Household Goods
Place large signs on these appliances for those who are packing heavy furniture. For example, if there are some items that you need immediately in your new home, place a “FOR IMMEDIATE USE” sign on it. This will keep you organized on moving days and avoid any complications. Your new employer abroad may provide you with relocation assistance.
On departure day, remember to close and secure all windows and doors, clean and vacuum the house, turn off lights and electronic appliances, and check all the closets, storage areas, and drawers to ensure everything has been packed. Make sure you also have your mail forwarded.
7. Don’t Forget International Health Insurance
Perhaps we are biased, but you should definitely remember to purchase an international health insurance plan to fully cover yourself and any dependents who will be living with you abroad. A global medical plan cannot only cover significant medical expenses but it can also cover preventative health and medical tests that can help you maintain your family’s health.
Most expats will agree that expat health coverage is the most important purchase that they will make before or after they make a move abroad as a global nomad.
This is especially true of many countries where most local public healthcare facilities may not be up to Western standards. Without an appropriate international health insurance plan, expatriates could end up receiving large medical bills that could put their financial status at risk.
Expatriates living and working abroad will benefit from an international insurance plan with day-patient care and full hospital coverage, extensive cancer coverage, dental and vision care, international medical evacuation and repatriation. Please get in touch with us today for a quote and to discuss your expatriate insurance requirements. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
