Home On The Go: What To Do With Your Belongings During Your Year Abroad

So, you’ve decided to spend a year abroad? That’s brilliant! Whether it’s for study, work, or just the sheer joy of exploring new cultures, a year away from home is an incredible opportunity. But then comes the practical bit – what to do with all your stuff while you’re globe-trotting.

Don’t fret; we’ve got some nifty ideas to help you sort it all out, keeping things straightforward and stress-free.

Store It

One of the simplest solutions is to store your belongings. Self-storage companies, like Safestore, offer a variety of unit sizes, so you can rent a storage unit to suit your unique requirements – whether you’ve got just a few boxes or the entire contents of a flat!

These facilities are secure, often climate-controlled, and accessible, meaning your items will be just as you left them when you return. It’s a cost-effective way to keep your belongings safe without having to impose on family or friends.

Family and Friends to the Rescue

Speaking of family and friends, they can be absolute lifesavers when planning a year abroad. If you’ve only got a handful of items you’re particularly attached to, why not ask if they can spare some space? It could be your childhood teddy bear or a box of keepsakes – things you’d prefer to leave with someone you trust.

Just remember to not take their kindness for granted and maybe bring back a nice souvenir as a thank you.

Sell or Donate

Let’s be honest; we all accumulate stuff we don’t really need. A year abroad is the perfect excuse for a clear-out. Selling items can provide some extra travel funds – think eBay, Gumtree, or a good old-fashioned car boot sale.

On the flip side, donating to charity shops or giving away items to friends can feel pretty good too. It’s about making your load lighter and, potentially, someone else’s day brighter.

Rent Out Your Space

If you’re a homeowner or have a long-term rental you can sublet, why not rent out your place while you’re away? Not only could this cover your rent or mortgage, but it also means you can leave your belongings exactly where they are (assuming your tenant is cool with that).

Just ensure you go through the proper channels, get everything agreed in writing, and maybe have a friend or property manager check in now and then.

Go Digital

We live in a digital age, so take advantage of it. Scan important documents and back up photos online rather than keeping physical copies. Services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud offer plenty of space for your digital keepsakes.

Plus, going digital means you can access them anywhere, anytime, adding a layer of security and convenience to your travels.

The Essentials Kit

Regardless of how you choose to manage your belongings, you’ll need to pack an essentials kit for your year abroad. This isn’t just your everyday travel bag; it’s a carefully curated selection of items that will see you through various climates, occasions, and moods.

Think versatile clothing, a reliable laptop or tablet, essential toiletries, and, of course, any necessary paperwork. Keep it light, keep it smart, and remember, laundry facilities do exist abroad!

Making The Decision

When deciding what to do with your belongings, consider the cost, convenience, and emotional value of each item. It might seem like a daunting task now, but once you’re sipping coffee in a Parisian café or hiking through the Andes, you’ll know it was all worth it.

Preparing for a year abroad is as much about organising your belongings as it is about gearing up for the adventure itself. With a little planning and some savvy decisions, you can ensure that your stuff (and you) have a fantastic year, no matter where in the world you end up.

So, here’s to your adventure and the peace of mind knowing your belongings are taken care of. Happy travels!

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