If you’re planning a move abroad — or you’ve already moved and realized “oh… this is different” — this guide is for you.

This is not a minimalist packing challenge or a “bring less, buy everything later” fantasy list.
This is based on lived experience moving Canada → China → Canada → Albania — where things can be harder to find, more expensive than expected, or just not available when you need them.

I put this together to answer the questions I get asked most — and the ones people don’t think to ask until they’re already here.