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What to pack when you are moving abroad

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Organisation is key, especially when you're packing to move oveseas. It's important to understand what you definitely need to pack, what you don't need to bring and what you can't bring at all.

Here's an overview.

First things first

Before you even drag out the suitcase, review this checklist and make sure you've ticked everything off.

Load copies of documents, photos and music to cloud storage
Save important contact details and information in a Google doc
Know your flight - weight restrictions, entertainment and food
Arrange airport pick-up for when you land
Add something to make it easy to identify your luggage
Bring hand luggage that can be used for day trips and daily use

Now let's, get packing

What to bring in your checked luggage:

A photocopy of your passport
Toiletries like contact lenses and solution, feminine care products, razors and shaving products
Power strip/plug board to allow you to plug in multiple devices with one adapter
Any books or material you'd like to bring for your studies
Appropriate clothes for the season

What shouldn't come

Some things are best left at home, so to avoid wasting your money or issues with customs, make sure you don't pack any of these:

Spices or plant products
Stationery is readily avilable, so there's no need to bring everything from home
Large amounts of cash
Pirated goods, such as movies
Anything that could be considered a weapon

This article first appeared on Insider Guides.