What should I pack when moving to South Africa?
We asked people living in South Africa to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded...
"When moving to South Africa, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Pack clothing that is suitable for the warm climate, such as light, breathable fabrics. Bring items that will help you stay cool, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Additionally, it is important to bring items that will help you adjust to the culture, such as books about South African history and culture, and items that will help you learn the language. Don't forget to bring any necessary documents, such as your passport and visa. Finally, it is important to bring items that will help you feel at home, such as photos of family and friends, and items that remind you of home," said another expat in South Africa.
"My family, More photos, Native forest I could have left my winter clothes behind and made my suitcase lighter - doesnt really get cold here. I really only moved here with a backpack and a bag so I need everything I brought with me," wrote a member who made the move to Cape Town, South Africa.
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Traveling Mailbox serves thousands of travelers, expats, digital nomads, businesses, individuals and others in over 47 Countries by scanning their postal mail so they can view it online anywhere in the world. They provide customer service 7 days a week so if you need assistance, it is just a phone call away. Traveling Mailbox works with Evernote, Bill.com and Dropbox. And, there are Traveling Mailbox apps available for iOS and Android devices.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in South Africa?
- How do I meet people in South Africa?
- What is life like in South Africa?
- Is there a lot of crime in South Africa?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in South Africa accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in South Africa like?
- Is the cost of living in South Africa high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in South Africa?
- What are healthcare services like in South Africa?
- Is the cost of living in South Africa high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in South Africa?
- What is the weather like in South Africa?
- Are there good restaurants in South Africa?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in South Africa?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in South Africa?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in South Africa?
- What do I need to know when buying property in South Africa?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in South Africa?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What should I pack when moving to South Africa?
If you live in South Africa, newcomers to South Africa would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.