What to Pack?

Let's face it, when you're talking about relocating to another country and all your worldly belongings have to fit into four large suitcases, the task at hand can seem overwhelming. After all, everything you own is important...right?  It was time for us to really decide what stays in the U.S.A. and what goes to PDC, Mexico.



First, we focused on all the items we have now that we think we may need in Mexico.  For example, we enjoy having our small kitchen appliances that make food preparation easier, but do we really want to take up luggage space with food processors, blenders and mixers? If the need arises, these are items we can purchase in Mexico.  Once we reassured ourselves of this option, we quickly moved on to the next task.

Second, we turned our attention to clothing.  This part was very easy for us.  As we have mentioned in a previous post, our prior travels to the Caribbean afforded us the opportunity to experience how we would dress day to day...light, casual, care-free clothes are a must, with a few wide-brim sun hats.  Just think about it, no more dry cleaning bills, business suits, starched shirts with ties, pantyhose or high heels.  And let's not forget all the accessories...briefcases, jewelry, hand bags, etc, just to name a few.

With only taking our summer wardrobe, casual sandals and flip-flops, tennis shoes and beach wear, we knew that only taking certain clothes and shoes would not be a problem. We were really getting into it now. Four suitcases was starting to look manageable.

Third, we had to decide what electronics to take.  With smartphones, tablets and laptop in tow, our packing task was well underway.

Fourth, it was time to turn my attention to the only real challenge...what cosmetics to take.  I basically decided to take all my favorite cosmetics until we can see for ourselves if the stores provided the colors I need. During our recent vacation to PDC, we did see a MAC cosmetics store and  Liverpool cosmetics store (with brands like Lancome, Clinique, Bobbi Brown) on the famous 5th avenue, and a Sally's Beauty Supply in the Centro Maya Mall.  If these stores have what I need, then I will certainly support the local retailers and purchase my cosmetics from them. Otherwise, I will make note and stock up on my return visits to the United States. A girl just can't be without her make-up!

Fifth, after reading through several blogs and forums, it was highly recommended that we bring our own sheets and bath towels.  Believe me…you don’t have to tell us twice!  Word is that the sheets and towels in Mexico are not what we are accustomed to in terms of quality.  

So, just to be on the safe side, we decided to take a good set of towels and bed linens with us.  We’ll certainly see for ourselves once we get there, but at least we’ll have a starter set. 

Sixth, our research also indicated that there may be a challenge in identifying some smaller kitchen tools.  On that note, we decided to take collapsible liquid and dry measuring cups, and pineapple cutter, mango slicer and apple corer.  These items are so small that they fit inside our sneakers.  Great way to use that extra space!

And finally, we decided to take a few medicinal items with us.  This included OFF Deep Woods Insect Repellent Towelettes, Cortisone 10 for mosquito bites, Neosporin ointment (our go-to ointment for everything), Pepto-Bismol tablets (for you know what), Advil and Alka-Seltzer Plus cold medicine ( for day and night).  Not a large amount by any means, but just enough to help in a pinch while we learn our way around our new home and locate a pharmacy.

As you can imagine, our four suitcases and tote bags are almost busting their zippers! After we get all moved in and settled, we'll be sure to give a post-move blog update to see if we would have packed any differently.

SEE YOU IN PLAYA!

Side note: just found out that Victoria's Secret is opening a store in PDC! Hip, Hip, Hooray...but that's a different blog post (smile).