After the Clothes (Suitcase 3)
Now that the clothes are packed it is time to put our focus elsewhere.
To start, if you are relocated for a job, many places will give you a relocation stipend which means fun shopping when you arrive for items like pots, pans, lamps, or other home necessities so no need to pack them. If possible, get an idea of how much items like these will cost you and how much your stipend will be.
An Idea of How Much Things Cost
We had been told that TVs and other such electronics were more expensive in Dominican Republic and we knew that for us a TV wasn’t a purchase we were willing to drop a lot of money on so we decided to bring our own. We packed a small inch TV that we had in bubble wrap and packed it in a hardback suitcase. Score! (Eventually we traded the TV in for a projector. BBE! = best buy ever!)
The Hardback Suitcase…
Buy one. We bought two. If you have electronics and technology gadgets you’ll be happy you did especially when you see them toss your luggage onto the conveyor belt like a frisbee. That hardback suitcase is worth the money and you could find some great ones at stores like Marshall’s.
What We Packed in Our Electronic/Tech Suitcase:
Suitcases 4 and 5
You may have furniture waiting for you in your new apartment: a couch, a fridge, a bed. Ahhhh. This is nice. You get to your new place, unpack, and want to take a nap – oh wait – no bed sheets. Rats! That’s ok. There’s lots to do so you decide to shower and keep working. Darn it – no towel!
Enter Suitcases 4 and 5. It wasn’t until we arrived in our new country that I realize I wish I had some first day essentials. Do NOT overlook these things. Your first few days adjusting to life in another country will be hard enough without having to air dry after a shower or sleep your tired head on a rolled up sweater.
Here are a few first day comforts that might make your first few days easier:
Husband and I hadn’t thought about these small home conveniences before moving and we were fine – we lived through it – but after prior weeks of preparing and packing, a possibly long flight with delays, traveling with dogs, an arrival in a new country, and – for me – a big ol’ pregnant belly – all I wanted was to shower and sleep and I couldn’t – at least not comfortably… and not without a trip to the supermarket for some dog food.
Since our initial move, the ziploc dog food tip is one that we use on any trip. After a day of travel with kids and dogs, the last thing I want to do is rush to the supermarket, so packing a day or two supply of dog food relieves one huge worry from that chaotic day.
I will assure you: you can get by the first day(s) without these things but if you have the room in your suitcase, why not bring a few things that will make you comfy cozy upon arrival?
Visit Phase 1: Prep and Packing
AND
Visit back on Wednesday, July 23 for Phase 3: The Homestretch
~ Pack light. Live well. Move often. Repeat ~

Suitcases – Martin Fisch (adapted by Expat Village)