What to Bring with You From the US When Moving Abroad (by an Expat)

Bonjour! Are you preparing for a move across the Atlantic to the charming and culturally rich country of France? Whether you’re heading to the romantic streets of Paris, the sun-soaked beaches of the French Riviera, or the quaint villages of Provence, embarking on an international move can be both exciting and daunting. As you prepare for this new adventure, consider what to bring with you from the United States.

Relocating to a foreign country involves careful planning, and deciding what belongings to take along can be a significant part of that process. From essential items that will help you settle into your new life smoothly to sentimental possessions that bring comfort in a foreign land, making the right choices about what to bring can greatly impact your transition.

I moved across the ocean before, and I’ll share the essential items and considerations to keep in mind as you prepare to move from the US to France. I’ll cover everything from practical necessities to cultural adaptations, ensuring you have a comprehensive guide to help you make informed decisions about what to pack and bring along for your exciting new chapter in France.

Whether you’re relocating for work, study, or to immerse yourself in the rich French culture, we aim to provide valuable insights and tips to make your move as smooth and enjoyable as possible. So, let’s pack and prepare for your move to France!

Note: While this post focuses on moving from the United States to France, many of the tips and suggestions can be applied to moving from other countries as well.

Advil/Tylenol

Stock up on Advil (ibuprofen) and Tylenol (acetaminophen) before you leave. While equivalents exist almost everywhere, the familiar U.S. brands, dosages, and formulations are often easier to find and trust when you’re still settling in. In many countries the standard OTC ibuprofen tablet is 400 mg (vs. the common 200 mg U.S. dose), packaging and instructions may be in another language, and pharmacy access can be more restricted or require asking a pharmacist. Bringing a solid supply of both means you can manage everyday headaches, muscle pain, fever, or inflammation without hunting for the right product or deciphering labels during those first months.

Deodorant

American-style solid stick deodorants and antiperspirants (especially the stronger clinical or aluminum-based ones many of us prefer) can be surprisingly hard to find—or simply different—in large parts of Europe, Asia, and elsewhere. Local options are frequently limited to sprays, roll-ons, or milder formulas that don’t control sweat the same way. Many expats end up missing their usual brand and end up asking visitors to restock them. Pack enough of your preferred deodorant (and any backups) to last well into your first year; solid sticks also travel more easily than aerosols.

Dayquil/Nyquil

These multi-symptom cold and flu remedies are classic American medicine-cabinet staples, but they can be restricted, reformulated, or simply unavailable abroad. Some countries limit or ban ingredients such as certain decongestants or higher doses of dextromethorphan, and combination products that work the way DayQuil and NyQuil do may require a prescription or come in very different forms. Having a reliable supply on hand means you can treat colds, congestion, and nighttime symptoms without scrambling when you’re still learning the local pharmacy system.

Dishwashing Detergent

It sounds mundane, but a bottle (or a few concentrated packs) of your favorite U.S. dishwashing liquid is worth the suitcase space. Local dish soaps can differ noticeably in strength, scent, foam, and grease-cutting power, and the brands you’re used to may be expensive imports or nonexistent. Bringing a familiar product makes the transition to a new kitchen feel a little more like home while you figure out the best local alternatives.

Pepto-Bismol / Antacids

U.S.-style stomach remedies like Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) and familiar antacids (Tums, Rolaids) can be harder to find or come in different formulations abroad. Many countries rely more on prescription options or local brands that don’t settle an upset stomach the same way. Bringing a supply means you’re prepared for the inevitable food adjustments, travel bugs, or rich local cuisine during your first months.

Allergy Medications (Claritin, Zyrtec, Benadryl)

Seasonal or environmental allergies often hit differently in a new country, and the exact antihistamines you’re used to may not be available over the counter—or at the same strength. Claritin (loratadine), Zyrtec (cetirizine), and Benadryl (diphenhydramine) are reliable U.S. staples. Stocking up ensures you can handle pollen, dust, pet dander, or new environmental triggers without hunting through foreign pharmacy shelves or needing a local doctor’s visit right away.

Sunscreen

American sunscreens frequently offer higher SPF options, broader-spectrum protection, and water-resistant formulas that many expats prefer. In some countries, the selection is limited, the active ingredients differ, or the textures and scents feel unfamiliar. Bringing a few of your trusted bottles (especially if you have sensitive skin or a preferred brand) keeps sun protection consistent while you explore local alternatives.

Laundry Detergent / Tide Pods

Laundry products vary widely by country in scent, concentration, and effectiveness. Many Americans find that their usual Tide pods, liquid detergent, or stain removers outperform local options, especially for treating tough stains or getting clothes truly clean in different water hardness levels. A small stock of pods or concentrated detergent takes up little space and makes those first loads of laundry feel a bit more like home.

Tampons / Feminine Hygiene Products

In many places outside the U.S., the variety of tampons (especially applicators, absorbencies, and organic options) is limited or nonexistent—pads are often the primary choice. Bringing a solid supply of your preferred brand and style avoids the frustration of settling for unfamiliar products while you adjust to local availability (or arrange for visitors to restock you).

Contact Lens Solution & Eye Care

Preferred contact lens solutions, rewetting drops, or specific eye-care brands can be difficult or expensive to source abroad. Formulations and preservatives sometimes differ, and your exact product may not be stocked. Packing enough of your usual solution (plus a backup pair of glasses) prevents last-minute stress and keeps your eye routine consistent.