Planning To Travel The World? How To Pack Up Your Life So It’s Ready For You When You Get Back

Sep 13, 2023

Last Updated on: Aug 26, 2025

Travel Blog

Before you set off on your global adventure, it’s crucial to have a well-thought-out plan for what to pack and what to store.

Create two lists; one for items you’ll need on your travels and another for possessions that will stay behind. This will help you prioritize and make the packing process more manageable. Remember, the aim is to travel light but also ensure that your life back home remains intact for your return.

Sorting Your Essentials

Deciding what to take with you on your journey is a balancing act between necessity and luxury. Start by listing all the essentials like travel documents, medication, TEFL accreditation, and basic clothing. Once you’ve got that sorted, think about the climate of your destination and pack accordingly.

Don’t forget to include a small first-aid kit and any specialized gear you might need for activities you plan to do. It’s always better to have a few versatile items rather than overpacking with things you might not use.

Using Storage Units

Storage units are an excellent option for keeping your larger possessions safe while you’re away. Not only do they offer a secure environment for items like furniture, but they also provide a climate-controlled setting for keepsakes that may be sensitive to temperature or humidity. Make sure to pack these items carefully, using bubble wrap or cloth to prevent any damage.

Opt for a storage facility that has robust security measures like 24/7 surveillance and coded access to ensure the utmost safety of your belongings. Safestore’s storage units all have 24-hour CCTV, and they have locations across the country. Their dry, clean, and secure units are the perfect place to store your belongings while you travel the world.

What To Do With Your Car

If you own a car, you’ll need to decide what to do with it while you’re traveling. Long-term parking can be expensive and may expose your vehicle to the elements. A better option might be to leave it with a trusted friend or family member who can occasionally run the engine and keep it maintained. Alternatively, you could look into professional vehicle storage services that offer secure, climate-controlled environments specifically designed for car storage.

Preparing Your Home For Your Absence

Before you leave, make sure to take care of household responsibilities that could become issues in your absence. Contact your utility providers to inform them of your travel plans and see if any services can be paused. Arrange for someone to collect your mail or have it held at the post office. If you have subscriptions or regular deliveries, pause or cancel them for the duration of your trip. These small steps will help you avoid unnecessary costs and complications when you return.

Make Your Return As Smooth As Possible

The excitement of traveling the world is unparalleled, but eventually, the time will come to return home. To ensure a smooth transition back to your regular life, it’s essential to plan your homecoming as meticulously as your departure. Start by making a checklist of tasks to complete upon your return, such as restocking your pantry, reactivating paused services, and checking the condition of stored items.

If you’ve left your car with someone, coordinate the return beforehand to avoid any last-minute hassles. Don’t forget to reach out to friends or family who’ve been looking after your home, plants, or pets to let them know your return date. A little planning can go a long way in making your return not just bearable but enjoyable, allowing you to seamlessly pick up where you left off.

Planning a long-term trip abroad is an exciting but complex task that requires meticulous preparation. From sorting your essentials and securing your possessions to taking care of your home and vehicle, each step is crucial for a hassle-free experience. By following these guidelines, you can embark on your adventure with peace of mind, knowing that everything will be ready and waiting for you when you return.

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Barsha Bhattacharya is a senior content writing executive. As a marketing enthusiast and professional for the past 4 years, writing is new to Barsha. And she is loving every bit of it. Her niches are marketing, lifestyle, wellness, travel and entertainment. Apart from writing, Barsha loves to travel, binge-watch, research conspiracy theories, Instagram and overthink.

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Three Of The Best Must-See Attractions During Your Time On The Thai Island Of Phuket

BY  Sibashree Jul 17, 2025

Alright, so—Phuket, the Thai Island. Man, where do I even start? I went in with zero expectations. Like, I thought it’d just be a beach-and-smoothie kind of trip.  You know, chill, maybe burn a little under the sun, hit up a night market or two, then call it a win. But wow, did this place surprise me! Seriously, you could spend a whole week there and still feel like you missed stuff. And I don’t mean just tourist traps—I mean real gems, the kind of places that make you stop and go, “Wait... how is this even real?”  But if I had to pick just three, the ones that still pop into my head while I’m spacing out on the subway or standing in line somewhere? It’s these. Trust me, you don’t wanna skip ‘em. Here’s the shortlist of the best things to see on Phuket Island, broken down with the same chaotic energy I had while stumbling across them. 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READ MORE things to do in washington DC

Fun Things To Do In Washington DC: 6+ Things You Cannot Miss Here (Including Free Attractions)

BY  Sibashree Dec 24, 2024

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READ MORE Parent’s Guide To Traveling With Kids

Parent’s Guide To Traveling With Kids:

BY  Ankita Apr 4, 2024

It is impossible to overestimate the effects of travel restrictions on families. Travel is an adventure that requires flexibility and uncertainty. Every trip needs careful planning because of erratic health regulations and changing entrance criteria. In the face of these difficulties, children's products play a revolutionary role. Convenience is important, but so is establishing a seamless travel experience that guarantees our young adventurers' happiness, comfort, and safety. A Guide For Families Amid Worldwide Difficulties Taking family vacations entails more than just picking a destination—it also means figuring out a complex web of regulations that have become a necessary component of our worldwide existence. 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Load up on their preferred educational apps, games, or movies to keep kids occupied on the trip. Snack containers and hydration packs make it easier to accommodate dietary restrictions and guarantee that you have access to water when travelling. These necessities spare parents the headache of making frequent stops while ensuring that their child's favourite snacks are always available. Adding kid-friendly travel applications to your vacation repertoire can be an enjoyable and instructive way to use technology. These applications keep your kids entertained while you drive and are a great source of information for parents looking for kid-friendly amenities and activities when they reach their destination. Families who want to use taxis or rented cars while travelling need a travel-friendly car seat. These little, simple-to-install car seats make it simple to protect your child's safety while following local laws. Having these essential products in your arsenal empowers you to create a comfortable and enjoyable journey for your entire family. Each item serves as a strategic tool, addressing the challenges of travel restrictions and enhancing the overall travel experience for your little ones. How Do You Explain Travel Restrictions To Your Child? Explaining travel restrictions to your child can be made simple and reassuring. You might say, "Sometimes, places we want to visit have special rules to keep everyone safe and healthy, like wearing masks or not visiting at certain times. It's a bit like when we have rules at home or school. These rules help ensure we and others stay safe while traveling and exploring new places. Like how we pack our bags with what we need, we must remember these rules as part of our adventure checklist." This approach keeps the explanation positive, emphasizing safety and collective responsibility. Making Family Travel A Breeze Setting off on a journey with the whole family, especially with your little ones, can be as thrilling as daunting. But don't worry! With some planning and insider tips, you can make any family trip a walk in the park. Kick off your hassle-free holiday by packing smart. A checklist specific to where you're going and how long you'll be there can be a game-changer. Choose clothes that mix and match, and remember the must-haves like diapers, wipes, and a first aid kit. A little trick? Roll your clothes to save space and keep them wrinkle-free. The right spot can make all the difference. Look for places welcoming to families, with plenty of activities, kid-friendly facilities, and healthcare options. Do a little homework to find accommodations that cater to families, offering things like cribs and high chairs to make your stay as comfortable as possible.  Travel time can be tricky with kids. Pack a bag full of their favorite snacks, including travel-friendly kids' products like ready-to-drink kid’s shakes, a few surprises, and gadgets to keep them busy. Items like headphones or tablets loaded with games and movies can be lifesavers. Also, keep essentials within reach to tackle any mini-mishaps on the way. the right gear can turn travel troubles into travel triumphs. Think lightweight strollers, collapsible high chairs, and gadgets that keep the kids happy on the go. These aren't just handy tools but your secret weapons for a peaceful journey. Ultimately, a smooth trip with kids is more than just getting from A to B; it's about the memories you create. With thoughtful planning and a few kid-centric items, you're not just going on a trip; you're making memories that will last a lifetime while enjoying the adventure that awaits. Concluding Words Ultimately, a smooth trip with kids is more than just getting from A to B; it's about the memories you create. With thoughtful planning and a few kid-centric items, you're not just going on a trip; you're making memories that will last a lifetime while enjoying the adventure that awaits. So, what’s stopping you from hopping on a seamless journey with your loved ones? Take note of this article and implement these tips for a fun-filled travel. And with that, it’s a wrap on this guide. Share your thoughts on this by commenting below! Learn More About: Guide To Traveling With An Autistic Child Kids Traveling With Their Laptops – Tips You’ll Want To Know Travelling With Children: Essential Vaccinations For Young Adventurers