Moving to Southeast Asia? Here’s What to Pack and What to Leave Behind

Making the leap to South East Asia is exciting, if you’re relocating to Manila, the beaches of Thailand, or the cultural hubs of Vietnam. But before you book your flight, there’s one question every expat asks: what should I pack, and what should I leave behind?

Here’s a friendly, practical guide from Relocate and Thrive to help you streamline your move, avoid excess baggage fees, and settle into your new life smoothly.

What You Should Pack

1. Lightweight Clothing

South East Asia is hot and humid year-round, so breathable fabrics like cotton and linen will be your best friends. Pack casual wear, modest clothing for cultural sites, and a couple of smart outfits for work or social events. 

You might find that you actually go to more formal social events if you're living in cities than you did at home, so a dinner jacket or formal evening dress may get more use than you expect!

2. Quality Footwear

Bring comfortable walking shoes or sandals, plus a pair of closed shoes for work or evenings out. Flip-flops are easy to buy locally, but good quality trainers and leather shoes may be pricier.

If you have big feet you may find it a challenge to find shoes that you like but don't bring too many pairs as the humidity isn't great for shoes.

3. Essential Electronics

A universal adapter (power sockets vary across the region).

A good laptop, phone, and chargers.

Noise-cancelling headphones (great for flights or city living).

4. Personal Care & Health Items

Most toiletries are available locally, but if you prefer specific brands, especially skincare or deodorants, pack a supply. Don’t forget prescription medicines, enough for around a month, with copies of your prescriptions. Ensure your medication is available in the country you're moving to. You may find that you can find a generic prescription medication but not always in the mg size you take.

5. Important Documents

Carry your passport, visas, medical records, insurance papers, and employment or rental contracts. It’s wise to keep both physical and digital copies.

6.Small Comforts from Home

A few personal items, like family photos, a favourite book, or snacks you love, help you feel settled while you adapt to your new environment.

What You Can Leave Behind

1. Heavy Winter Clothing

Unless you plan trips to Japan or Korea in winter, leave thick coats and boots behind. A light jacket or cardigan is usually enough but if you're coming from a cold country and intend to travel in their winter, bring enough warm clothes to get from the airport to your winter clothes supply.

2. Bulky Appliances

Skip the hairdryer, toaster, or kettle. Most accommodations in South East Asia provide these, and local appliances are inexpensive and suited to local voltage.

3. Furniture and Large Items

Shipping bulky furniture is costly. Furnished apartments are common or can buy affordable pieces locally. If you are shipping your furniture and have a company relocation package, check that the package includes repatriation or you can face hefty fees when you're ready to move on.

4. Large Book Collections

Humidity can damage books. Bring a Kindle or e-reader instead, and save luggage space. You can also sign up to a service like borrow box that gives you online access to your local library, which can be a lifesaver for someone who loves reading.

5. Excessive Cosmetics & Toiletries

Supermarkets and malls in cities like Manila, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur stock international brands. You don’t need to fill your suitcase with shampoo and toothpaste.

Pro Packing Tips

Check baggage allowance: Airlines to South East Asia often have strict weight limits.

Climate check:  Rainy season means a foldable umbrella and waterproof shoes may come in handy.

Think long-term: Ask yourself if each item is worth the shipping or luggage space.

Final Thoughts

Relocating to South East Asia is an adventure, and packing smartly helps you start off on the right foot. Bring the essentials that make daily life comfortable and familiar, and leave behind the things that can be easily purchased when you arrive.

Relocate and Thrive, we specialise in helping individuals, families, and corporate clients move seamlessly to Manila and beyond. From packing guidance to settling in, we’re here to make sure you thrive in your new home.