thespinarose.com

Moving abroad for a new teaching job is an exciting adventure that forces you to evaluate your possessions and decide what you truly need.

Packing everything you own would be a logistical nightmare, so the weeks leading up to your move should involve a significant declutter and clear out of all the things you've been hoarding. 

The key to effective packing is to focus on what adds value to your life, as space in your suitcase or shipping box is finite and therefore precious.

Here are my top six tips to ease the packing process and help you free yourself from the stress of the move:

1. Do Your Research

Before you start packing, find out how accessible and affordable items are in your new location. 

There's no point in packing kitchen items or bedding if you can easily get them once you arrive. 

Reach out to your new school or join social media groups to connect with locals who can provide valuable insights.

2. Declutter and Prioritise

Go through your belongings and decide what you truly need and what can be left behind. 

Prioritise essential items and sentimental possessions, and consider donating or selling things you won't need in your new home. 

This step not only lightens your load but also helps you start fresh in your new environment.

3. Create a Packing List

A detailed packing list is essential to stay organised.

Categorise items by type (clothing, electronics, documents, etc.) and ensure you have all necessary paperwork and important documents in a secure, easily accessible place. 

This list will help you keep track of everything and ensure nothing important gets left behind.

4. Invest in Quality Packing Supplies

Protect your belongings during transit with sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and strong tape. 

Label each box with its contents and destination room to make unpacking easier. 

Consider using vacuum-sealed bags for clothing and bedding to save space. Quality packing supplies will help ensure that your items arrive safely.

5. Pack an Essentials Bag

Pack a separate bag with essentials you'll need immediately upon arrival. Include items like toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, medications, chargers, and any other necessities. 

This way, you won’t have to search through boxes to find what you need right away.

6. Research Customs Regulations

Different countries have varying customs regulations and restrictions on what you can bring in.

Research the customs rules of your destination country to avoid any surprises or delays. 

Make sure to declare any items that need special attention and understand the process for shipping certain goods.

These tips will help you stay organised, minimise stress, and ensure a smooth transition to your new home abroad. 

Once the packing is done, you can relax and enjoy the move. It’s liberating to free yourself from possessions that don't make you happy.

Embrace the process and the freedom it can lead to.

Moving abroad is not just about starting a new job; it’s about starting a new chapter in your life with less clutter and more room for new experiences. 

Travel light, live well, and feel the freedom of a fresh start.

Happy packing!

See you next week,

Thes

Future articles in this series:

• Making a good first impression.
• Embracing new cultures.
• Dealing with the emotions of living away from home.