Unless you are a serial expat, moving abroad with just a couple of suitcases can seem daunting, or even impossible! If hiring a moving company to ship your belongings abroad isn't an option, then you may have to resort to making a long-term move with just your luggage. However, with some preparation, you can ensure that you take all your necessities and do your utmost to make sure that they get to your destination safely.
Airline rules
Before you start deciding which of your possessions get to come along for the ride, or which just don't make the cut, check with your airline what the maximum weight limit is and whether you can pay to bring any additional suitcases. This may be worthwhile, as it will likely be cheaper than shipping the same items, and will give you some more leeway in terms what you can bring. It is best to select this option in advance, rather than paying for extra luggage at the airport, as it will likely be cheaper. You should note what the maximum number of extra suitcases is and how much each costs, as the price often increases exponentially. However, at a certain point you may want to consider an international moving company if you find yourself needing a large number of extra suitcases.
If you're not getting a direct flight to your destination, and are flying with different airlines, you should ensure you know the weight limit for each airline, as well as making sure you have paid for any extra luggage allowances for all legs of your journey. Both of these vary from airline to airline, and your first piece of extra luggage will likely be cheaper than a second or third piece.
If you have opted for extra luggage, make sure you have a taxi or a friend with a good-sized vehicle who can collect you from the airport at your destination. Arranging transport when there or having to get public transport may be difficult if you're trying to balance two or three suitcases by yourself.
Which suitcase?
Though it may seem like an unnecessary added expense when you have a perfectly good suitcase at home from your last holiday, it might be best to consider investing in a new suitcase. Remember, when you're going on holiday you are probably taking fewer things, and it doesn't matter if your suitcase full of bikinis (or swimming trunks) and flip flops gets shaken around a bit. When you're moving long-term you may have more valuable or fragile possessions you want to pack, or just more things generally, which may put a strain on your existing suitcase. Even a pair of elastic straps to secure your case will go some way to prevent a bulging case bursting at the seams. However, a lightweight hard case is probably the best option to keep its innards well protected whilst not taking up too much weight itself.
Packing
If you don't have the option of shipping your things to your new home, packing can become a challenge – just how many pairs of boots can you afford to take to the tropical paradise that will become your new home? If you tend to form an emotional attachment to your things, you will have to become ruthless! For those who enjoy the cathartic nature of routinely throwing away or donating items they don't use, you will likely relish this process.
The most important things to check are what you will need in your destination and what is available there. For example, if you're going somewhere sunny, you may assume that affordable, high SPF sunscreen is available there, however this may not be the case. In which case, it would be a good idea to stock up in advance. However, if your favourite shampoo or body wash isn't available there, it isn't the end of the world (though if you have the space, you may want to take one or two bottles as a luxury). Ruthlessness is certainly key as you start packing; if you begin with a more relaxed attitude, you will quickly find yourself sat on top of an overweight suitcase trying to force a reluctant zip.
Vacuum-packing is a great way to save space, and putting bottles of hygiene or cosmetic products in boxes protects your things from any potential spillage. It might be a good idea to pack the heaviest items first (often shoes), so that you can assess the space and weight you have left for other items. You should also try and limit the amount of shoes you take, particularly to a sunny destination where you will be less likely to need heavy close-toed shoes and more likely to find flip flops or sandals to purchase upon arrival.
Remember that suitcases don't always make it to their destination at the same time as their owners, so your hand luggage should ideally contain a few clothes and essentials to get you buy for a few days. However, hand luggage is also a great place for luxury items, such as electronics or anything you'd rather not risk putting in the hold.
A little luxury
Finally, do allow yourself a few luxuries! Photos of family and friends, a favourite mug perhaps, or even a favourite book can make your new house feel more like home. These things will also help you feel less detached from your old life and remind you of home if you ever find yourself feeling a bit homesick.
We hope this article was helpful! If you have any tips of your own for expats about to move abroad, please leave them in the comments below!
