When thinking about packing for a year, sometimes people will look at their closet, their room, their bathroom and think, “how on earth am I going to fit everything I’ll need into one, maybe two, suitcases?” The answer is that you don’t have to! You actually don’t need to bring 95% of what you currently own because most likely you will be able to buy what you need in your new country.

Here is a list of the items you should bring and items you’re better off keeping at home!

WHAT TO BRING:
-Laptop: Computers will be your portal to the rest of the world and if you bring yours with you, you won’t have to battle it out for a spot in an internet café’s in order to send an email or Skype.

-Adaptor!: Anything you bring that has an American plug will need an adaptor or converter.

-Over the Counter Medicine: Certain basic medicines like Tylenol or Aleve are not as easily accessible overseas so you may want to pack a bottle just in case.

-Backpack: Need I say more?

-Good Socks: Odds are you’ll be doing a good deal of walking so I would highly advise investing in some good socks. Your feet will thank you for it!

DON’T BOTHER BRINGING:
-Your entire closet: Honestly, you will only need some favorite shirts, a couple pairs of jeans, shorts, a sweater and an interview outfit. Anything else you can buy as you need.

-American blow dryers, curling irons, flat irons: It would be best if you bought styling tools made for your specific country. This way you can avoid possible short outs or over heating issues that could damage your tools AND hair! Plus, that’s two pounds saved for luggage!

-More than 4 pairs of shoes: Shoes are also a big space hog. We advise bringing a good pair of walking shoes, a pair of nice shoes (ladies, we mean flats, not heels!) and a pair of sandals.

-Hygiene products: Unless you have a very specific type of product just head over to the travel section and get mini sized shampoos and conditioners to tide you over until you’re settled.

-Physical Books (Except for your Lonely Planet guide of course!) : Books are bulky. If you can streamline your reading into a tablet or iPad that will be able to take a heap of pounds off of your weight count.

-Pillows: Yes, they’re fluffy, soft and great for a plane ride but we promise you’ll hate them as soon as you’ve landed and don’t have anywhere to put it.

So remember: Minimalism is key when going on a Working Holiday. You will have access to stores and shop just like you are back home so you can pick up what you need along the way!