Suitcase essentials

The perfect finds for traveling & moving abroad.

In 2022, I packed up my life and moved to Barcelona, and I quickly learned just how important it is to have the right gear for moving abroad. That is why I am starting this series: to share the absolute perfect items I’ve found for traveling and relocating. So, if you are thinking about moving abroad, or if you’re just prepping for your next big trip, this post is definitely for you! 🙂

The moving abroad journal I wish I had

Moving abroad is exciting, overwhelming, and full of moments you don’t expect, and honestly, I wish I had a place to capture all of it.

Not just the big milestones, but everything in between.

That’s exactly why a moving abroad journal can make such a difference. It’s not just about writing, it’s about documenting your whole experience as it unfolds.

How to find an apartment in Spain

Finding an apartment in Spain can feel like a full-time job at first… but once you understand the system, it gets a lot easier.

The first thing to know: the market moves FAST, especially in big cities like Madrid, Barcelona, or Valencia. If you find a good place, you need to message right away and be ready to visit ASAP. Waiting even a day can mean it’s gone.

Barcelona 5 day itinerary

This 5-day itinerary is designed to help you experience the best of Barcelona without rushing. It combines must-see highlights like the Sagrada Família and Park Güell with local neighborhoods, hidden corners, and time to slow down.

It’s all about balance, seeing the iconic spots while still leaving room to wander, discover, and enjoy the atmosphere that makes Barcelona so special.

For every day I have made a day program + my favorite food & drinks spots in the neighborhoods + links to buy tickets.

How “My moving abroad journal” can make your move abroad smoother

Moving to a new country is exciting, but let’s be honest, it can also be chaotic, stressful, and overwhelming. From finding a place to live and dealing with bureaucracy to keeping track of your belongings and important documents, there’s a lot to manage. That’s where My Moving Abroad Journal comes in.

This isn’t just a planner, it’s your personal companion for one of the biggest adventures of your life. Here’s how it can help you every step of the way.

Why I made the Moving Abroad journal

In 2022 I moved to Spain, from The Netherlands. Not only did I move to another country, it was also my first time living on my own. Back in The Netherlands I always lived with my parents, so there was a lot to get used to.

It’s a lot to take in, being on your own, finding a place to live, navigating the bureaucracy of a new country, and managing all the other things that come with moving abroad.

Meet the “classic” moving abroad journal

After publishing three editions of my Moving Abroad Journal, I’m excited to introduce the fourth: the ‘Classic’ edition.

While the content remains the same across all versions, each edition is designed with its own unique style. The ‘Classic’ Moving Abroad Journal is created for those who prefer a clean, strong, and timeless look. With a more neutral color palette and a structured, no-distractions layout, this edition focuses on clarity, practicality, and purpose.