Top relocation hacks to take the stress out of an international move

Emotionally managing a move

• Make a move ‘to-do’ list that’s helpful. Group tasks by date and rate them (1- 3) based on priority in a format that works for you. Check it daily and you’ll get them done in no time.
• Want to keep that dress in perfect shape? Silica gel helps stave off rot. If you don’t have silica gel bags handy, hang tea bags in your fridge or freezer to help absorb moisture. Avoid the heartache of rotten clothes.
• Stay calm by packing heavier things you don’t require to hand well in advance. This reduces any potential stress closer to move day, when you’ll be worrying about other things.
• Facing at language barrier after you relocate? Write down a few useful phrases – such as directions and ordering food. This smooths the process of settling in hugely.
• Save time unpacking. Use coloured stickers for your boxes and assign different colours for different rooms. You’ll get set up in your new home far more easily.
• Make sure you know what you’ve packed and where. Take a photo of the contents of each box; if you need to find something later, there’ll be no frustrated digging.
• When travelling, have what you need most to hand. Make up a bag of essentials – documents, chargers, toothpaste, spare clothes and medicines. Handy too, if you have an unplanned hotel stop.
• Be prepared to unpack in advance. Take a spare set of Allen keys in your backpack. The moment you unpack you’ll be ready to start putting the pieces back together.

Packing and getting organized

• Ensure your freezer is ready for your move, defrost it 48 hours before you move, and make a memorable meal from the contents.
• Avoid passport pain. Check your passport now, and if it’s due to expire soon, renew it now so that you can travel worry free.
• Save space packing clothes. Leave them in their drawers and when you arrive at your new destination, your clothes will all be in the right place.
• Avoid tangled wires. Thread wires from electrical items through toilet rolls, so you don’t end up getting frustrated untying knots when you arrive.
• Transport heavier items more easily. Put them in your suitcases, instead of clothes. The wheels on suitcases will help you carry around bulky stuff.
• Save time getting the TV sorted. Take a picture of the cable set-up you have before you pack it – so when you eventually get to relax, it’ll be easy to set it up again.
• Protect your breakables by putting them in socks or wrapping them in towels and soft clothing. It’s a smart way of packing that saves you buying extra packing materials.
• Know what your boxes contain at a glance. Label the sides of the boxes rather than the top. Even when they’re stacked up you’ll know which one you need.