Pack Smart, Not Hard

I can imagine most of you have never packed to move to another country. Same here! So, the question is: what should you pack when coming to the north of the Netherlands? Looking back, I definitely overpacked, and that wasn’t the smartest choice. That’s why I’ll share what I would’ve done differently – hopefully, this helps you pack smarter than I did.

What to pack when moving to Groningen

Let's start with the real deal: essentials for your Dutch life

  • Rain gear: Waterproof jacket with hood, compact umbrella 

You need these because the weather changes quickly here. If you don’t manage to bring them, no worries, you can easily buy them here. I bought my rainproof, bike-friendly jacket from Decathlon. It might not be my most fashionable piece, but it’s saved me many times on the way to Zernike. 

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  • Warm layers: Thick jumpers, thermal tops, windproof coat  

As I mentioned, the Dutch weather changes a lot. Bring layers so you can add or remove them throughout the day. 

  • Good shoes: Waterproof sneakers or boots for walking and biking in the rain. 

As a big Nike snickers lover, I’m not the best example, but do buy at least one pair of boots. They’ll keep you warm and trust me, you don’t want your ankles to freeze! 

Academic & Daily Life

  • Laptop and charger (with EU plug or adapter) 

I believe it’s quite self-explanatory, but you’ll need a laptop to work on your assignments, take notes, and so on. Basically, it’ll feel like an extension of your hand until you graduate from Hanze. If you're from a country that uses a different plug type, make sure to bring an EU adapter. 

  • A backpack that’s comfortable for biking

I’m not the best example, I often cycled with my “fashionable” bag, which looked nice but was really uncomfortable. Especially if you’re not as experienced as the Dutch, having something heavy on one side makes it hard to keep your balance. And if your bag doesn’t have a zip, the rain gets in, quite logical, right? Eventually, I gave up and got a proper backpack, which can still can look cute, by the way. 

 

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Room/Flat Setup

  • Bring a few items that remind you of home 

I didn’t, but many friends did and that’s so sweet. Actually, my best friend, Ralitsa, printed a few photos from back home for me. These few pictures made my student room feel more like home. So that could be a nice idea. You can also maybe bring items like your favourite mug or candle. 

  • Bedsheets (optional) 

Honestly, depends when you arrive here. If you arrive late, you won’t want to sleep on a bare mattress. So, bring one set from home if you can, then buy more here from IKEA, Jysk, or Action. 

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  • Towel and small first-aid kit

Similar to the bedsheets, it’s a good idea to bring at least one small towel to dry your hands or taking a quick shower after a long journey. Keep in mind that some accommodations offer you to purchase a set in advance. Of course, it’s a matter of personal preference. 

  • Basic toiletries for the first weeks 

Don’t overpack. Bring only the essentials you actually use, no need for five mascaras or shampoos. You can buy most things here. If you're worried about prices, it’s not always cheaper to bring stuff from home. Sometimes it is, but not always, just something I noticed from my international friends. 

  • Prescription medication (with a copy in English) 

If you take regular meds, ask your doctor (especially if you're from the EU) to give you a prescription in English, printed or online. Bring a copy or email it to the pharmacy when needed. 

  • Painkillers, allergy meds, etc. 

No need to bring too much medicine from home. You can buy basic meds here too. I was glad I packed some essentials like ibuprofen, cold medicine, and something for nausea or minor burns. It’s just nice not to have to go shopping when you’re unwell. And remember that in Dutch pharmacies, you usually need a prescription, so get basic meds from the supermarket instead. 

Comfort from home

  • Favourite snacks, tea, spices  

There are plenty of international shops in Groningen like Nazar and Le Souk where you can find food that tastes like home. So don’t overpack but bring a few of your favourite snacks or spices because nothing beats the taste of home. 

What You Might Not Need to Bring

  • Too many clothes 

You’ll probably go home at some point, so you can swap or bring more later. Also, there are plenty of clothing shops here if you want to refresh your wardrobe before or after the holidays. 

  • Kitchen supplies 

Please don’t! You can find cheap utensils at Action, IKEA or HEMA. No need to bring your pots and pans from home. You also don’t need a full cutlery set, just a couple of knives and forks. If they’re dirty, you can borrow from your neighbour. In my student accommodation, that was a regular practice. In my second place, we even shared and stored things together. 

  • Textbooks 

Most can be accessed online or through the Hanze Library, so there’s really no need to bring or buy them in advance. 

  • Big electronics 

Honestly, I’ve only seen students from Germany or Belgium bring stuff like toasters, kettles or coffee machines but they live nearby. If you’re flying, it’s not worth the hassle. You can easily find cheap and new ones here if needed. 

What to Bring Back After Christmas or Summer

  • Things you’ll realize you miss or need 

Your favourite winter socks from grandma? Bring them back, small things can bring a lot of comfort. 

  • Specialty foods or spices you can’t find here 

That one spice or snack you love but just couldn’t find here or just doesn’t taste the same, I get it, nothing beats the taste of home. Bring a few of your favourites back. 

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  • Traditional clothes for cultural events or parties. 

Consider bringing your national flag, traditional clothing, or even a football jersey. They’re perfect for themed parties or national celebrations. You’ll see flags everywhere, and you might want to hang yours too. 

  • For friends 

Souvenirs or small gifts from home are always appreciated. Food gifts are a big hit in student housing. We often share what we bring. I once brought a jar of lyutenitsa from Bulgaria and my friends gathered around, eating it until the bread was gone. Sooo good! 

You can make a list and plan ahead, but I’m sure you’ll still forget a thing or two and that’s okay. You’ll either learn to live without them, realise they weren’t essential after all, or just buy them here. In any case, focus on comfort and practicality over packing your entire room. So, check the quick checklist below and have a safe trip! 

See you soon! 

Sla over