Packing Essentials for a Move to Spain
Anyone else a chronic over packer? I always feel like I’m forgetting something.
I over packed when I moved to Madrid. I really regretted how much stuff I brought with me. Lugging around 3 suitcases, 2 duffel bags, and a backpack was not a fun experience. Furthermore, staying in a hostel for 2 weeks with all of my stuff was even worse. My experience with moving was quite stressful and my packing situation made it even harder. Packing essential only items for a big move is incredibly important. Pack as light as possible because there are many things you can buy for your new home in Spain!
After 3 months of living here, I have reflected on the things I wish I had done differently; 1 of the main things has been my packing situation.
90% of your suitcases will be filled with clothing. Choose wisely!
Good rule of thumb: Don’t pack anything you haven’t worn in the last 3-5 months
Ask yourself…
What clothes do I already wear frequently?
What shoes do I wear the most? And which are the most comfortable?
What items are absolutely essential for this move?
Here are my essentials to pack for a move to Spain
- Prescription medication and vitamins
Some things are just difficult to find in Spain and if you’re lucky enough to do so, it’s not exactly the same! Do yourself the favor of getting you medication sorted and stock up on your favorite vitamins.
Many pharmacies require a prescription (receta in Spanish) for a number of medications. Ladies, if you want to keep your contraceptive from the States or home country, consider bringing a years worth supply with you. If you run into a snag of running out while abroad and are concerned about changing methods, don’t worry! There are many English speaking gynecologists available to help with options and feeling more comfortable.
- Paperwork (copies of passport, school acceptance if applicable, medical records, etc.)
- Camera, phone, laptop, chargers, etc.
- Bras/Underwear/Intimates
- Swimsuits
- Comfortable shoes (2-3 sandals, 1-2 athletic shoes)
- Reusable water bottle
- Foldable bag/backpack
- A book or two
- Headphones
- Sunglasses
- Eyemask
- TSA locks (keep your things safe always!)
- Warm weather clothing (shorts, tank tops, 3-4 dresses
- Work/School appropriate clothing (1 full interview outfit, dress pants, belt, blazer, 3-4 shirts)
- Cold weather clothing (except coats, see below) 5-10 sweaters, 3-4 jackets, 1-2 sweatshirts, 5-6 pairs of pants/leggings, 2-3 pairs of boots, 1 rain jacket
Before you ask, YES it gets COLD in Madrid and it rains often. Don’t be fooled by the stereotypical view of the weather here. The south of Spain, in Andalusia, experiences higher temperatures yet it will still get chilly.
*Unless you have a deep personal attachment to a non essential item, don’t pack it*
Packing TIP #1: Get space bags to pack your clothing
Packing TIP #2: Roll your clothes very tightly
Packing TIP #3: Do NOT pack the items listed below 🙂
I recommend to NOT pack the following items because it takes up too much space in your suitcase: Buy it there!
- Bed sheets, pillows, blankets
- Towels
- Your closet full of shoes (seriously, bring the shoes you wear the most, 5-6 pair max)
- Umbrella
- Hairdryer/Straightener (different plugs and outlets, remember?) Even with an adapter, my hairdryer from the US shorted out 🙁
- Hangers (very cheap to buy in Spain)
- Coats (you can find great coats at Primark, Zara, Sfera etc. for cheap ~ €20-50)
I packed all of the above listed and it was complete overload. I’ve never had such a difficult time moving stuff around. Lugging so much baggage around made many of the days difficult. Moving abroad is already overwhelming , so lighten your load, have a smoother transition, and a better travel experience!
Along with these packing essentials, check out another essential for my travels here!
If you’ve ever had the experience of moving abroad and think I left something out, please feel free to leave a comment below!
More to come about living the Spanish lifestyle coming soon!
Hasta pronto!
