When in Rome, do as the Romans do…easy to say, but what if the Romans don’t think deodorant is necessary?
Feature Photo by hiddedevries. Photo Above by piermario
Often the first thing expats learn when they make that first move abroad is some everyday items aren’t so common outside of the U.S. Immersing yourself into a new culture is great, but with a little extra preparation, the transition can be much smoother.
Here are a few items to consider packing for your first month abroad.
Photo by Boris Veldhuijzen van Zanten
Toiletries
Specifically, any bathroom items of a specific brand you can’t live without.
A few examples are medicated facial soap, contact lens solution, or that Bath and Body Works mint foot scrub you can’t leave behind.
Consider bringing a few sticks or cans of deodorant unless you’re positive it’s commonly used in your new home.
Some countries in Europe and Asia don’t consider deodorant a necessity (and not just the colder countries).
Finding a stick of Secret can be impossible in those regions, and when you do, the price can be enough to make those pit stains seem bearable.
Gadgets
It goes without saying that you should look into the type of power supply you’ll be dealing with, and to pack the appropriate transformers and voltage converters. But before you pack, take a careful look around at all of your electronic gear to ensure you have as many converters as you need. If you plug the Crockpot in for a few hours, will you be able to charge your laptop at the same time?
What if your new bathroom doesn’t have an outlet? Will the oddly shaped plug for that beard shaver fit into a power strip? Aim for a variety of transformers and converters so you have as many options for charging as possible.
Photo: Lola Akinmade way up north in Sweden
Seasonal Clothes that Fit
Maybe you’re leaving in September, but what’s winter like at your final destination? Don’t forget to research the weather so you’re prepared.
Of course, you can always shop for clothes once you arrive.
However, it can be difficult to find clothes of the right size overseas. A husky gentleman may find it difficult to find a ski jacket in Tokyo.
And if size isn’t the issue, consider this: what’s “in” at home may not be fashionable overseas for both men or women.
A Brasileira (Portuguese for “The Brazilian Woman”) might look fabulous in those fluorescent colors, off-the-shoulder tops, and oversized earrings, but you could feel more like an extra in a Cyndi Lauper video.
Imports
This includes everything from electronics to regular everyday items. If you’re heading to Asia, it’s true that the latest mp3 players and cell phones are available for a great price. But if you’re looking for an iPod, the price could be inflated.
Think about things you may need that the locals might not. If you’re moving to South America, most folks there probably don’t need sunblock. Even if you find some SPF30, you can bet you’ll be paying through your burned and blistered nose to get it.
Before You Pack
About a week before your departure, start a list of everything you use on a day-to-day basis. Before you pack, review and decide for yourself which things aren’t so necessary and which you absolutely can’t live without. Of course, part of the fun of moving abroad is to break daily habits and discover a new part of yourself, so don’t be afraid to leave a few things behind.
After a few months of good Italian wine, you may learn to love those sweaty armpits!
Community Connection
For more survival tips abroad, check out 8 Items Guaranteed to Help You Survive a Big City Trek.
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4 Comments... join the discussion!
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That’s crazy about the toothpaste, Eric! Good to know.
I have to say, I love that there’s a link to a Cyndi Lauper video included. (Thanks, Lola!)
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Yes to everything, especially the toiletries. And true, you can find lots of things in Japan but it’s good to be aware that some electronics you buy abroad might not be compatible with your systems back home. I ran into problems when my computer died; it took a lot of research to learn that all the computers in Japan – apart, of course, from Macs – come with Japanese OS and keyboards. I also ended up buying a digital camera, a toaster oven, and a Brita filter while I was there; none of those instruction manuals came with English translation. So, yes, be aware that you might need to bring your own imports, or at least make a friend who speaks the local language.
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No deodorant in China either. The only deodorant my friend and I found in either Japan or China was this clear liquidy… stuff. My friend insisted it worked like a charm when she bought some in Japan. I don’t know though, good thing I had brought enough.
And, I also found no tooth floss either. If you are looking for a familiar brand name of shampoo, shaving gel, etc, it’s pretty darn expensive. While I was studying in China, the only brand I recognized was head and shoulders, and then I have no idea if I bought shampoo or conditioner.
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