03/06/2026
Moving to the Netherlands soon? 🇳🇱✈️
When I was packing in India, I spent hours wondering what I would actually need. Looking back, there were a few things that made the transition much easier✨
Here are 10 things I'd recommend packing for your first month.
🔌 Universal power adapter
One of those things you'll need immediately but might forget until your phone battery is at 2%.
💊 Essential medicines
Bring enough of your regular medicines and basic remedies. It can take some time to figure out the healthcare system and pharmacies after you arrive
🌶️ Basic spices
A small pack of your favorite spices can make a huge difference when you're missing home-cooked food. You can find Indian stores in most Dutch cities, but having some essentials from day one is always helpful.
🍜 Quick-cook food
Ready-to-eat meals, or anything that can be prepared in 10 minutes. Trust me, after a long day of travel and unpacking, you'll be glad you brought them.
📄 Important documents
Keep both physical and digital copies of your important paperwork.
🍲 Small pressure cooker
Probably one of the most useful things a student can bring. It saves time, money, and makes cooking much easier.
🌧️ Waterproof jacket
The Dutch weather doesn't always care what the forecast says. A good waterproof jacket is more useful than packing lots of heavy winter clothes.
📸 Passport photos
You may need them for registrations, permits, applications, and various administrative processes.
💶 Some cash in euros
Most places accept cards, but having some cash during your first few days can be useful.
❤️ A small comfort item from home
Whether it's your favorite snacks, photos, or something sentimental, having a little piece of home can make a new place feel more familiar.
