Teaching Abroad Packing List: Essential Items for Korea and Beyond
What to pack when moving abroad to teach for the first time
Preparing to teach abroad is exciting, emotional and sometimes overwhelming. You are starting a completely new chapter, possibly in a country you have never visited before, and suddenly everything you own feels important.
If you are wondering what to pack when moving abroad to teach, you are not alone. One of the most common questions new educators ask is how to prepare for such a big transition without overpacking.
The good news is that you do not need to bring your entire life with you. Most everyday items can be purchased after you arrive. What really matters is packing strategically, prioritizing essentials and bringing what helps you feel comfortable, confident and prepared.
South Korea is one of the most popular destinations for teaching abroad. With modern cities, efficient transportation, incredible food and strong support for international teachers, it offers an excellent example of how to pack smart.
Whether you are preparing to teach in Korea or another country, this teaching abroad packing list will help you start your journey with clarity and confidence.
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Important Documents You Must Pack When Teaching Abroad
Before thinking about clothing or personal items, organize your paperwork. These are the most important things you will bring with you and stay in your carry on luggage.
Bring:
- Passport with at least six months validity
- Visa documents or work permit paperwork
- Job contract and school contact information
- Teaching certifications and degree credentials
- Health insurance documents
- Emergency contact list
- Passport sized photos
- Printed and digital copies of everything
- Store digital backups in secure cloud storage so you can access them from anywhere.
Teacher insight:
“I thought packing clothes would be the hardest part. It wasn’t. Keeping my documents organized saved me so much stress when I landed.”
— Sarah, ESL teacher in Seoul
Professional Clothing for Teaching in Korea and Other Countries
Dress expectations vary depending on the school and location, but arriving with professional outfits ready to wear makes your first weeks much easier. It allows you to settle in and observe local norms before shopping.
Pack:
- Five to seven work appropriate outfits
- Comfortable professional shoes
- One formal outfit for meetings or events
- Undergarments and socks that fit well
Professional presentation is especially valued in Korean schools, so modest and polished clothing is a safe starting point.
Teacher insight:
“I packed one week of outfits and that was perfect. Once I saw what my coworkers wore, I bought the rest locally.”
— Daniel, ESL teacher in Busan
Medications and Health Essentials for Moving Abroad
Access to familiar medications and personal health products can vary by country. Bring enough to cover your first few months while you get settled.
Helpful items:
- Prescription medications with documentation and legal confirmation
- Contact lenses and solution if you use them
- Glasses and a backup pair
If you rely on specific brands, bringing extras helps avoid unnecessary stress during your transition.
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Electronics to Pack When Teaching Overseas
Technology plays a major role in helping you adjust to life abroad. From navigating transportation to staying connected with family, the right devices make everything easier.
Bring:
- Laptop or tablet
- Phone and charger
- Universal power adapter
- Voltage converter if needed
- Portable charger
- Headphones
- USB drive or external hard drive
Always check electrical voltage and outlet compatibility before departure.
Personal Care and Comfort Items That Help You Adjust
Moving abroad is not just logistical, it is emotional too. Familiar products and comfort items can make your new environment feel stable during your first few weeks.
Consider packing:
- Travel sized toiletries
- Favorite skincare products
- Preferred deodorant brands
- Specialty hair care products
- A few meaningful items from home
Teacher insight:
“I brought photos of my family and my favorite pillow. It sounds small, but those things helped me feel grounded during my first month.”
— Michelle, kindergarten teacher in Incheon
Teaching Supplies to Bring Abroad
Most schools provide classroom materials, but a few personal tools can help you feel prepared from day one.
Optional but helpful:
- Notebook or planner
- Flashcards or visual aids
- Stickers or small rewards
- Basic classroom supplies
Keep this minimal. Luggage space is valuable and most resources are provided.
What to Pack Specifically for Teaching in South Korea
Korea is modern, efficient and extremely well stocked with stores. However, there are a few items teachers often wish they had brought.
Consider bringing:
- Larger shoe sizes if above common Korean sizing
- Well fitting professional clothing
- Preferred deodorant brands
- Specialty hair products
- Prescription medications with documentation
Most other items are easy to find locally, including clothing, electronics, skincare and household goods.
Teacher insight:
“I was amazed by how convenient everything is in Korea. Once I settled in, daily life became incredibly easy.”
— Lauren, hagwon teacher in Seoul
Meaningful Items From Home
A few personal items can help your new space feel comforting and familiar.
Ideas:
- Photos of loved ones
- Favorite book
- Small decoration
- Cozy blanket
- Something meaningful to you
Emotional comfort supports healthy adjustment during your transition abroad.
What NOT to Pack When Teaching Abroad
Overpacking is one of the most common mistakes first time teachers make.
Leave these behind:
- Large amounts of toiletries
- Excess clothing
- Kitchen equipment
- Bedding or towels
- Heavy books
- Rarely used “just in case” items
Most everyday goods are available after arrival.
Universal Packing Advice for Any Destination
Even if Korea is your destination, smart packing principles apply everywhere. Prioritize items that cannot be easily replaced, bring what supports your work and include a few comforts that support your transition.
Availability, sizing and cultural expectations will vary by country, but the goal is always the same. Arrive prepared, adaptable and ready to embrace the experience.
Final Thoughts on Packing for Teaching Abroad
Packing for teaching abroad is not about bringing everything you own. It is about arriving prepared, supported and ready to begin your new life with confidence.
This experience will challenge you, grow you and change you. Packing wisely simply helps you start strong!
Ready to teach abroad in Korea or another incredible destination? Footprints Recruiting supports educators every step of the way, from choosing the right placement to preparing for departure and settling into your new home.
Explore teaching opportunities today and start your international journey with confidence.
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Useful Resources for Teaching Abroad
Have some questions before you apply? We’ve got you covered! You can always contact us with your questions. Additionally, we’ve put together a wealth of resources to help you along every step of the journey. We are always updating our blog with more useful information so please check back often!