Moving to a new country is an exciting adventure, but it also comes with its challenges—one of which is deciding what to bring with you. What American (or insert other nationality) products will you not be able to find?  What will you be able to replace in Portugal when you arrive?

These are common questions for expats preparing to move. I often found myself stuck in a whirlwind of worry about what to bring and how I would find everything I needed. Don’t worry yourself too much!  I already shared this post on where to shop once you get to Portugal,  but let me tell you now: you’ll be able to find everything you need.  Finding everything you want is another story!

Before diving into packing, it’s important to consider all aspects of your move. Our blog post on the Moving to Portugal Checklist covers key factors to evaluate before leaping. As an expat family living in Portugal, we’ve navigated this process firsthand and are here to share our insights. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you pack smartly for your move to Portugal.

*Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. Opinions shared are my own, and I only endorse products I support. By clicking on any of the links below, I may get a small commission if you purchase at absolutely no additional charge to you. I appreciate your support.*

7 Items Worth Bringing to Portugal

1. Paperwork

Let’s start with the boring but essential stuff: paperwork. Trust me, you’ll need this. From birth and marriage certificates to school records for the kids and your medical history, these documents are the golden tickets to getting settled in Portugal. Keep them safe, organized, and waterproof. You’ll likely be pulling these out more often than you expect—whether it’s for healthcare registration, enrolling the kids in school, or securing your residency.

When we traveled full-time, I scanned all our important docs into digital form as well, and I’d 100% recommend doing this.  I use it more than I expected to. You need hard copies in Portugal as well, but you can reference your digital copy quickly for things like school applications, etc.

Basically anything you’d keep in your “safe box” at home should come to Portugal.  What I did not bring and stuck into a safety deposit box instead:

• Social security cards.  I have a digital copy, but I have not needed (nor do I anticipate needing) these in Portugal.  These are a US document used for US transitions such as driver’s licenses and job applications.  If you are applying remotely, you are going to send a digital copy anyway.
• Bank statements and tax returns.  Same story. Portugal doesn’t care about these enough to warrant a hard copy in the country.
• Business filings.  We own our own business, and I didn’t need to bring employee paperwork or any other business docs.  Our business runs out of the US, and docs should stay there.

2. Sentimental Items

This one’s close to my heart. When we moved, I couldn’t bear to leave behind all the family photos, special artwork, and a few heirlooms. These little pieces of your history add warmth to a new space and can really help when homesickness hits. Your new house in Portugal will feel much more like home with these personal touches.

For the kids, we actually gave them each a carry-on to fill with whatever they wanted (with some prior approval of course – I’m not bringing fruit roll-ups, kids).  This allowed them to fill their little suitcase with books, stuffed animals, toys and other things I would have nixed if it were up to me!

3. Tools and Equipment

If you’re anything like us and love a good DIY project, pack those tools. High-quality tools can be pricey here, and if you’re planning any renovations or craft projects, you’ll be glad you brought them. The same goes for kitchen tools—your favorite chef’s knife or measuring cups are worth the suitcase space. These items made our everyday life in Portugal so much smoother.

This isn’t to say you can’t find tools in Portugal. You totally can! However, they are going to vary from the super cheap at the “Chinese stores” to the expensive ones that have been imported from somewhere else.  If you have a specific hobby requiring supplies that might be hard to find, bring some tools along.  

4. Electronics

Your laptop, phone, tablet, and yes, that Kindle for all your reading needs, are must-bring items. English books can be a bit tricky and expensive to find here, so having an e-reader was a lifesaver for us. Just be mindful of voltage compatibility for other electronics—I ordered an Instapot from Amazon US (not thinking the plug issue), and it died the first time I plugged it in.  I’ve also heard this from other expats. Much of their electronic equipment didn’t work except high tech.  

You can buy Apple products in Portugal, but they run about 30% more due to customs, and computers will likely have a Portuguese keyboard (we haven’t done this, but I’ve seen them at tech stores).  We purchased breakers that accept US plugs but have an EU plug to use our computers and phone chargers from the US.   

Note: Electrical Items Warning

Many North American electronics won’t work in Portugal due to the voltage difference (230V in Portugal vs 110V in the US). Popular kitchen and bath appliances like coffee machines, curling irons, or mixers are best left behind, as even adapters can cause damage over time. Instead, focus on bringing non-electric items like quality pans or knives.

5. Clothing and Shoes

Portugal’s weather is mild, but it’s worth packing your comfy layers and favorite shoes. If you’re taller or wear larger sizes, options might be limited here. We found it easier to bring what we loved rather than hunt down replacements. Leave the snow gear behind unless you’re planning a trip to the Serra da Estrela mountains in winter or going skiing in Europe!  However, we’ve bought all our ski gear in Portugal at this point.  Decathlon is a great option for this stuff (although it’s not cheap for good quality).

I continue, even 3.5 years later, to buy most of our clothes from the US.  We visit enough that I stock up from Amazon, Target, Costco, and TJ Maxx on every visit.  However, this isn’t necessary and, in some ways, makes us stand out as expats more!  I simply don’t love to shop and want the easiest solution possible.  Don’t be afraid to buy clothes in Portugal, but do pay attention to quality.

Shoes are a major export of Portugal!  Many shoe brands, including very luxurious ones, are manufactured in the north of Portugal.  I love shoe shopping in Porto and have found some great leather shoes.  If your kids want the nice Nikes, be prepared to pay more, but they are easy for us to find in Lisbon.  Just head to the local shopping center.

6. Medications and Health Products

Navigating the healthcare system takes time, so bring a good supply of your prescription medications. Medication is actually much cheaper in general in Portugal, but you’ve got to adapt the new brands with instructions in Portuguese.

You can even fill a prescription with just a pharmacist.  I’ve avoided a doctor’s visit or two by showing an old prescription bottle to a pharmacy and claiming to have left more at home.  However, it’s always best to seek medical care when needed.

I tend to bring back some vitamins that we really like as well as Dayquil, Nyquil, Airborne and Mucinex.  These are brands I know and love to get us through cold and flu season, especially with all our travels.

7. Spices and Specialty Food Items

If you have favorite spices, tea blends, or cultural staples, bring them. Portugal’s food is amazing, but certain familiar flavors can be hard to find. For us, a stash of our favorite hot sauce and salsa made all the difference.

I cannot find Mexican staples other than taco mix, tortillas, and a very bland salsa, and I often try to bring these with me to Portugal after visiting the US.  A few cans of enchilada sauce, green salsa, and other condiments go a long way to making a meal feel like home!

4 Things To Consider Leaving Behind

1. Electrical Appliances

As tempting as it is to bring your trusty blender or coffee maker, voltage differences can be a nightmare. Converters don’t always cut it. Save yourself the hassle and plan to replace these locally—it’s often more cost-effective.

2. Furniture

This one depends on your budget and sentimental attachment. Shipping furniture can be costly, and while styles in Portugal may differ, there are plenty of local options to suit any taste or budget. If you’re looking for guidance on furnishing your home, don’t miss our blog post on Furnishing Your Family Home in Portugal: Where to Buy. It’s packed with tips and recommendations to make your house feel like a home.

3. Odd-Sized Beds and Mattresses

European bed sizes are different, and finding sheets to fit your old bed can be tricky. Unless you’re absolutely attached to your mattress, consider buying new one here. We used Emma to buy a quality mattress we love.  Local options are plentiful and affordable.

4. Vehicles

Importing a car is a bureaucratic and financial headache. Cars here are smaller, more fuel-efficient, and better suited to the narrow roads. We sold ours before the move and opted for a local purchase instead. If you’re weighing your options, check out our blog post on Renting, Buying, or Shipping a Car in Portugal for detailed guidance.

Expat Packing Insights: What People Wish They Had Brought

• Spices and Specialty Food Items. Expats often miss certain food items that are either unavailable or difficult to find in Portugal. Commonly mentioned items include specific hot sauces, American-style crackers, flavored coffee creamers, and Thanksgiving essentials like pumpkin purée and stuffing mix. While local alternatives exist, stocking up on favorites can make the transition easier.
  
  
• Medications and Health Products. Pharmacies in Portugal are well-stocked, but some over-the-counter medications that are common in the US, like certain pain relievers and cold medicines, may not be readily available. Many expats choose to bring a supply of their preferred brands, as well as supplements that can be harder to find.
  
  
• Clothing and Shoes. Clothing options in Portugal tend to favor synthetic fabrics, which some expats find less comfortable, especially in summer. Those who prefer breathable, natural materials may want to bring extra cotton clothing. Shoe sizes can also be an issue, as larger sizes—especially for women—are not always widely available in stores.
  
  
• Tools and Equipment. High-quality kitchen tools, measuring cups, and aluminum foil are items some expats wish they had packed. Gardening enthusiasts have also found it challenging to find good-quality non-electric garden tools locally and regret not bringing their own.

Expat Insights: Lessons Learned

• Many expats find that bringing extra household essentials—like durable trash bags, good-quality food storage bags, and sentimental home décor—helps them feel more settled.
  
  
• Storage space in Portuguese homes can be limited, so bringing too many dressy clothes or items that won’t be frequently used can lead to clutter.
  
  
• A few expats have shared funny packing mishaps, like accidentally throwing away valuables hidden in travel bags, emphasizing the importance of organizing essentials carefully.
  
  
• Some of the most-missed treats include specific snack brands, nostalgic childhood foods, and even favorite ice creams that aren’t available locally.

Additional Tips

• Amazon Spain. If you’re missing familiar products, Amazon Spain is a game-changer! You can search in English, shipping is fast (1-4 days), and there are no extra customs fees since it’s within the EU. I’ve been using it a lot recently, and it’s super convenient. Worst case, you can still order from Amazon US, but expect higher customs fees and longer delivery times (2-3 weeks).
• Comfort Items from home: There’s nothing like curling up in familiar, cozy bedding. Bring your favorite linens and towels to make your new house feel instantly welcoming. Small touches like cushions and framed photos also work wonders in creating a sense of home.
• Join Expat Groups: Finding your tribe is key. Online expat communities were our go-to for advice on everything from bureaucracy to the best local spots for coffee. Connecting with others who’ve been through it made the transition so much easier.
• Research Costs: Consumer prices in Portugal are generally lower, but certain things like high-quality kitchenware or tools can be pricier. Do your homework to figure out what’s worth bringing versus buying locally. A little research saved us a lot of money. Some of the stores that you can take a look at are: Ikea, Conforama, Casa, Gato Preto, Kitchen Life, Decathlon, Continente (The closest thing to Target in Portugal).

Packing and Shipping Options

When it comes to moving your belongings, families have several options to consider. Here are your main options:

• Suitcases: Ideal for minimalists or short-term moves. Airlines typically allow extra checked bags for a fee, but weight and size limits apply. From the US, extra checked bags cost around $100-$200 per bag, while from Europe, costs range from €50-€100. Be mindful that oversized bags (over 70 lbs) can incur fees of $400+ each.
  
• Shipping Boxes: A great middle ground for smaller households. Pallet shipments within Europe range from €500-€1,000 depending on size and weight, while shipments from the US can cost $1,000-$2,500. This is a practical choice for non-fragile essentials.
  
• Shipping Containers: Best for moving an entire household. A 20ft container from Europe to Portugal costs around €2,000-€3,000, while from the US East Coast, it’s $3,500-$5,000. While more expensive, this option allows you to move all your household goods in one go. Don’t forget to account for customs fees and potential delays.

Pro Tip: Measure doorways, stairwells, and rooms in your new place if you plan to bring large furniture or appliances. Many American-sized items may not fit easily in European homes, cars, or elevators.

Summary of Costs and Recommendations:

• Shipping a Container: Best for large households with many items; higher cost but comprehensive.
• Excess Luggage: Affordable for smaller moves; limited by airline restrictions.
• Combination Approach: Balance essential luggage with minimal shipping to save costs.

Research your airline’s baggage policies and compare freight shipping quotes to determine the best option for your move. 

Supporting the Local Economy

One of the best parts of moving here was discovering local businesses. By buying furniture, décor, and everyday essentials locally, we not only supported the Portuguese economy but also found unique items that added character to our home. If you’re wondering where to start, check out our blog post on Furnishing Your Family Home in Portugal: Where to Buy for helpful tips and recommendations. It’s a win-win and a great way to connect with your new community.

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Talking to fellow expats, we’ve heard some hilarious (and relatable) stories about what people thought they absolutely had to bring… only to regret it later:

• A giant BBQ grill. One family brought their massive American gas grill, only to find that their new apartment balcony was too tiny to fit it. Now, it serves as an expensive outdoor storage unit.
• A collection of snow boots. A couple moved from Canada with an entire suitcase of snow gear, forgetting that most of Portugal rarely sees snow, unless you decide to live in Andorra. Their snow boots now live a lonely life at the back of a closet.
• A lifetime supply of peanut butter. Another expat packed an entire box of peanut butter, fearing they’d never find it in Portugal. Turns out, most supermarkets carry it…
• An entire set of fancy china: Someone shipped a delicate china set across the ocean, only to realize they rarely use it and live in fear of breaking it. Lesson learned: sentimental doesn’t always mean practical.

On the flip side, many expats wish they had packed more of:

• Comfort snacks. Missing that favorite brand of hot sauce, cereal, or tea can hit hard when homesickness kicks in.
• Kids’ beloved toys. It’s often the small, well-loved toys that kids miss the most, not the shiny new ones.

Moving to Portugal is a chance to start fresh and embrace a new lifestyle. With thoughtful planning and a bit of research, you can balance what to bring with what to buy locally, ensuring a smooth transition into your new home. Trust me, you’ve got this! 

Happy packing!

Leslie,

Additional Reading

Moving to Portugal Checklist

How To Obtain A Portuguese D7 Visa For Your Family: Everything You Need To Know

Moving Your Family to Portugal from the United States: What to Know