Arriving in a new country is exciting. Everything is an adventure, from finding your way around town to trying new foods to making new friends. It won’t all be smooth sailing, but it takes the idea that every day is a school day to a new level. You want to be at the top of your game to embrace and enjoy all the challenges. To that end, you need to set yourself up for success. You can do that by getting plenty of rest and shipping personal items ahead so they are there when or very shortly after you arrive.
Shipping your personal items ahead offers three huge benefits. First, it means less for you to carry on your journey. Absolutely you should carry the essential things you’ll need immediately, but you don’t have to lug everything with you. Second, it provides some home comforts sooner. If you wait until the last minute to ship your things, you’ll be without them for longer. And third, sending your things in advance means you can save some money by opting for a slower but cheaper shipping option.
What to Ship Ahead for Comfort and Convenience
Everyone has different preferences and different circumstances, but these are some of the top items to send ahead when you are moving.
· Kitchen – Having some of your favourite pots and pans on hand makes cooking in a new place easier. Don’t forget cutlery, dishes and mugs. Including some of the dry spices and herbs you use often when you are shipping personal items can save you searching for them in a new place.
· Bathroom – Using towels to wrap fragile items is a great way to ensure that you have plenty of them when you arrive in your new home. It makes sense to bring some basic toiletries in your carry-on bag, but sending your familiar cosmetics and hair products gives you a chance to get to know what’s available locally before you buy.
· Clothing – You might want to carry a few changes of clothing with you, but you certainly don’t have to lug all of your clothing on the plane. Send most things ahead so your wardrobe is waiting for you. Don’t forget your shoes too.
· Comfort Items – What makes home feel like home? Is it your favourite throw blanket? Your yoga mat? Some treasured books or photos? Whatever items you feel will help you make your new place a real home can be sent ahead so you can get settled in quickly.
Moving overseas is a huge life change, whether you are doing a year abroad for university or accepting a transfer overseas to advance your career. Shipping personal items ahead will clear out some space in your current home while you continue to pack. It will also make your first days and weeks in your new place much easier. Adjusting to a new country takes a lot of energy, and having some familiar essentials there right away will mean you don’t waste that energy trying to find replacements in an unfamiliar place.
