What to pack for the Netherlands
Packing for at least half a year abroad can be a challenge. We put our must haves and advise in a blog post. We hope that we you will manage to pack faster and that you will not forget something. For a better overview we put everything in six categories.
documents
Print your housing contract as well as other important documents such as your passport. It is important to have some backups in case something gets stolen or lost. Also, check if a visa is needed. Best is when you have the documents hidden in several pieces of luggage or in a belt bag.
Toiletry
Bring small amounts of shampoo, shower gel and toothpaste as you can easily buy it after you arrived. If you have an electronic toothbrush, do not forget to put the charger in your bag. Think about things you need like a hairbrush and razor.
clothes
When it comes to clothes you should pack pieces for cold and warm temperature. Even in summer the weather can cool down. Thermal clothes come in handy with variable temperatures. Absolutely necessary are the basics like underwear, shirts, pants, jackets, and comfortable clothes. Depending on what you study you maybe should also pack fancy clothes like a blazer. Most importantly, do not forget a rain jacket and umbrella.
Gadgets
If you have a long trip, we recommend getting a portable charger. If you are from outside the EU, you should have an EU charger adapter with you. It will make charging your devises possible. For the Netherlands simple bike lights, a good bike lock as well as a portable bike pump are nice to have. If you know someone with an OV public transport card that is not expired ask them to give it to you. You will be able to save money on the public transport with it.
University
Bring your favourite notebook and pens as the ones in the Netherlands might defer from your country. Wait until you are in the Netherlands to buy the most important books as you often can get them second hand or borrow them. Bring your laptop and/or your iPad. If you got send your student card to your home, take it with you.
nice to have
We recommend to pack clothes in vacuum bags or packing cubes in case you lack space in your luggage. If you have food or sweets that are typical for your country that you like, bring them. Your hall mates could do the same and you can try new things together. We also recommend you print out pictures of your loved ones. Then, you can always look at them and have nice memories in mind as well as decorate your room. Think about if you need plates and items to cook if you have space. Otherwise, you will find it in the city centre or second hand in the student housing.
We hope that we make your packing easier and that you will have save travels. Feel free to download our pdf packing lists and print it out. On our website you can find advise on mostly work-related topics such as finding work as an international student. Click here to find out what you must know.
