Phewww! Just thinking about packing for a working abroad holiday is enough to break you out in a sweat.
So, how do you know what to pack? You will be away from home (albeit in a beautiful location) for at least a year. With this in mind, taking your most practical possessions is absolutely essential.
Aside from your passport and documentation, here is a list of our most essential items to pack.
Journaling
An important part of any trip is to document and record all of your amazing journeys. You should absolutely devote enough space in your luggage to carry your journaling equipment!
Journaling equipment may include; diaries, stationary, a sketch pad (for those keen artists), and a camera. If you really want to take it to the next level, you can get creative with different lenses and types of cameras too. An instant camera is a very nostalgic and fun way to create on-the-spot memories, and are handy if you want to give a photo away to somebody quickly. Also, they can easily be pinned to noticeboards or stuck to the fridge with magnets.
To keep your luggage light, a smart phone will certainly do the job and you have plenty of editing options in the palm of your hand. A smart phone also allows you to quickly and efficiently post photos and stories in real time. This is a great way to keep in touch with your loved ones back home. Why not go live, and show everyone what you are up to!
Friendly reminder: don’t forget your travel adaptor!
Climate determines your clothing
Dependent upon your destination, you may need to pack warmer or lighter clothing. Sometimes, you may need a good mix of the two.
A country like Canada has some harsh winters, but this season is to be enjoyed for it’s snow-blanketed scenery and landscapes. Read all about the seasons of Canada.
If you are moving to Canada during the summer, a practical idea may be to purchase your winter coat when you have arrived. Naturally, this will save you space in your luggage and allow room for more of your favourite items of clothing. Alternatively, if you are moving to Canada during the colder months, you will be able to wear your winter coat en route – convenient!
Home away from Home
Us humans are creatures of habit and sometimes being in new places can make us feel home sick.
It is a good idea to take items from home with you as these bring comfort. Photos of family and friends can be helpful, and whilst having these pictures on your phone is useful there is nothing quite like physical prints in frames. Display them around your space so that they can be seen at all times.
In addition to pictures, other comforting items could be blankets/throws, teddy bears (it’s ok, no judgement here), and even fairy lights.
Another way to create a home from home is by igniting your senses. If you have certain fragrances from your old bedroom such as scented candles or reed diffusers, take these with you to trigger homely memories.
Which of these items would you take?