Moving Abroad Essentials Checklist

Before you begin to check items off your moving abroad essentials checklist, ask yourself two important questions. What am I most excited about in my new life? What do I want to carry forward – and what am I ready to release?  The answers to these two questions will help you pack, plan and prepare – emotionally and practically.

Home and Possessions

• Decide what to Keep, Sell, Donate, or Gift
• Photograph items you’re letting go of but want to remember
• Organize important papers (birth certificates, medical docs, financial records)
• Sell or give away large furniture
• Consider the true cost of storage – both emotional and financial

Car and Transportation

• Sell, store, or gift your vehicle
• Cancel or suspend insurance and registration
• Research local transportation options at your destination

Pets

• Arrange travel documents, vaccinations, and microchipping
• Book airline-approved pet travel (if applicable)
• Learn quarantine or entry rules in your new country
• Prepare a travel-day kit for your pet (food, meds, comfort items)

Medications and Healthcare

• Stock up on essential prescriptions (90-day supply if possible)
• Gather printed and digital copies of medical records
• Research clinics and emergency care in your new area
• Understand how health insurance works in your destination

Mail and Communications

• Set up a mail forwarding service (e.g., Earth Class Mail, Traveling Mailbox)
• Cancel or digitize subscriptions
• Notify government agencies, banks, and service providers of address change

Finances and Banking

• Notify your bank of international travel
• Enable online access to all accounts
• Research international-friendly banking (e.g., Wise, Schwab, Revolut)
• Understand currency exchange and ATM access in your destination

Technology

• Unlock your phone for global SIM card use
• Back up all devices (documents, photos, passwords)
• Bring universal plug adapters and chargers
• Install useful apps for travel, communication, and navigation

Legal and Travel Documents

• Check passport validity (must be 6+ months from your travel date)
• Finalize visa approvals and carry backup copies
• Update Powers of Attorney, wills, and legal contacts
• Make digital copies of everything and store securely (cloud + USB)

Travel & Transition Prep

• Book flights, airport transfers, and temporary lodging
• Pack a “First Week” bag (clothes, toiletries, medications, important docs)
• Plan goodbye visits, celebrations, or closure rituals
• Mentally prepare for culture shock and time-zone adjustments

Final Reflection On Moving Abroad Checklist

Here are two questions to reflect on finally. What are three things I’m proud of releasing? What am I most ready to say YES to in this new life? And be proud that you accomplished this move abroad without losing your way.