Pack Smart, Not Heavy: What I Wish I Knew Before Moving Abroad

Let’s be honest, when you’re preparing to move to a whole new country, the instinct is to pack your entire life.

You look at your wardrobe and think: I might need this. And this. And this. And this. Yes, even that shirt you haven’t worn in years — just in case.

Well… that was me.

I packed for all four seasons — winter, summer, autumn, and spring — as if Europe would suddenly stop selling clothes the moment I landed. I found the biggest suitcase in the house and stuffed it to the brim.

Spoiler alert: when I got to the airport, my suitcase was very overweight.

I think the ladies at the check-in counter saw the stress in my eyes — solo traveller, leaving home, emotionally fragile — and decided to show mercy. They let it slide.

Grace. Pure grace.

But hear me clearly: you do not need to bring your entire wardrobe. Europe has clothes. You will be able to afford them. Shops exist. And your journey might not be blessed by the same airport angels I had.

Before You Even Touch Your Suitcase

Check your airline’s baggage allowance. Airlines are not shy about charging you enough to fund a small family reunion.

Most international flights allow:

• 2 checked bags (20–23kg each)

• 1 carry-on

• 1 personal item (backpack or laptop bag)

Sounds generous, right?

Now here’s the part nobody warns you about: Once you land, you’re on your own. There might be stairs (lots of them), no elevators, long platforms, cobblestones, buses, trams, and endless walking.

Dragging a 32kg “emotional support suitcase” through all that? Pure torture. Please — do not be like me.

I arrived excited, nervous, hopeful — all the emotions. Then reality said:

“Welcome to Europe, sweetheart. Hope your back is strong.”

To get from the airport to my university town, I had to take multiple trains. There I was, dragging my very full, very unnecessary suitcase up stairs, down stairs, across platforms, and through the wind.

I regretted every part of it.

If it weren’t for the kindness of strangers in Wales, I honestly don’t know if I would have made it.

And do you know the worst part? Half of the clothes I brought? I never even wore.

Research the Climate – It Will Save You

I arrived in autumn, which turned into winter — which then turned into “why does the air feel like needles?”

The sandals? Waste of space. The cute open-toe shoes? Completely useless. Out of all the shoes I packed, I wore three pairs of sneakers on repeat.

So here’s the rule: pack for the climate you’re arriving into, not for every possible outfit your imagination suggests.

If you’re arriving in September, that’s autumn heading straight into winter. Ask yourself: “Do I really need four pairs of sandals?”

Answer: No.

One pair is fine. Flip-flops for hostel showers, sure — but open-toe shoes will just sit in your closet watching your sneakers live their best life.

Bring: 👟 Shoes you can walk in 🧥 Warm layers 👖 Clothes you can move in

Think Practical Over Aesthetic

You will walk. A lot. Public transport is a lifestyle, not a suggestion.

Pack clothes you can:

• Layer

• Move in

• Stay warm in

• Wash and re-wear easily

This is not the time for “but it’s cute.” Cute must also be comfortable and practical.

Here’s a realistic, student-friendly, sanity-saving list:

Clothing

• 7–9 everyday tops

• 2–3 long-sleeve shirts for layering

• 2–3 warm sweaters

• 1–2 hoodies

• 5–6 pairs of jeans or pants

• Comfortable walking shoes (non-negotiable)

• Flip-flops or shower shoes

• Slippers/slides for indoors

• Sleepwear + underwear + socks (lots of socks!)

• 1–2 shirts for formal occasions (church, presentations, etc.)

• 1–2 traditional outfits — you’re moving abroad, not leaving your heritage behind

Suitcase Tips

If you’re traveling with two suitcases, mix your items. Don’t put all your clothes in one and all your shoes in the other. If one gets lost or delayed, you’ll still have something to wear.

Also, invest in durable luggage — sturdy handles, zippers, and wheels. People will toss your suitcase around, and you want it to survive. Once it’s checked in, it’s out of your control, so make sure it’s built to endure a little chaos.

Final Reminder

You are not abandoning home — you are starting a new life.

Pack light so you can:

• Move freely and travel easily

• Walk or cycle without struggling

• Feel less overwhelmed

• Buy things that suit your new climate and lifestyle

The memories you’ll make will matter far more than the outfits you left behind.

You’ll be okay. And one day, you’ll laugh about your packing panic — just like I did.