Packing for a Big Move: My Tips and Essentials
If you didn’t know I’m Yas and I moved from the UK to New Zealand on a working holiday visa in 2023. In 2025 I am still here and thriving! If you’re like me and you’re booking a one way ticket unsure of when you’ll next return to the place you once called home but also unsure if you will stay for a month, 1 year or possibly make it a permeant move then this is your guide to help you decide on what to pack.
Packing to move your life from one side of the world to another can be absolutely terrifying. When the move date looms you become fearful if you’re making the right choice. With that knowing what to take can be a big. I feel that you’re belongings can be a sense of home too, so if you are moving countries for the first time and unsure on what is necessary then stay tuned.
I remember leaving my packing to the week I was flying, old Yas was super unorganised and would leave anything that gave any sense of anxiety to the vary last minute. However new Yas having gotten used to the chilled lifestyle New Zealand brings has became a little more organised and enjoys pre planning a little more. (Words I never thought I’d say).
i was going to share with you my list that I had roughly written in my notes on my phone however I started to realise this probably wouldn’t have been much help. But I do suggest writing a list of every item that you can think of that you want to take. Almost like a checklist but more that you can tick it off once it’s in the case.
Plan What to Bring
I Suggest taking a suitcase and not a rucksack if you’re moving to one place and not travelling about. I ended up ditching the case I initially took after a stint in Australia prior for my sisters wedding but i realised that having a hard case suit case was probably the way to go. However the suitcase itself weighs a lot so bare this in mind.
I found on on Amazon simillar to my suitcase…
Packing cubes completely changed my life. Having a cube for each type of clothing was a game-changer.
I’d suggest rolling your clothes rather than folding them as they take up less space. Vacume bags are a life saver for bulky items like coats etc.
As I am writing this I remembered one item that is so handy for travellers is the Fjallraven Kanken back pack. This item has changed my life over the years, it feels like it’s made for travelling. But I find it very handy to use as my carry on bag and allows me to pop things like my laptop in with ease.
Little hacks I picked up:
Roll clothes instead of folding them as they take up less space and stay wrinkle free.
Vaccum bags are a lifesaver for bulky items such as coats, I found the rolling vaccum bags or ones with a little pump work best.
Transparent toiletries bags to pop in your check-in case or you can take them on with your carry on, as long as you follow the airline restrictions
Pack things like hair dryers and hair straighteners amongst your clothes to ensure they are safely wrapped.
Image idea: Rolling clothes in a suitcase or using vacuum bags.
Affiliate idea: Travel organizers, carry-on bags, vacuum storage bags.
Final thoughts
Packing for a move abroad isn’t fun, but it’s worth putting in the effort. Being prepared made my first few weeks so much easier and less stressful. Don’t stress about getting it perfect, just have a plan, stay organised, and remember that even if you forget something, you can usually get it at your destination and less is truly more.
Image idea: Optional personal photo of you smiling with packed bags or a scenic destination shot.