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Moving to Portugal from the US four years ago, I wondered about many things (translation: I lost sleep over many things).  Top of the list were things like where we would live, where the kids would go to school, how we would fit in culturally, and our visas to Portugal.  

Secondarily on the list was the logistics of moving.  It is always hard to move.  Moving abroad can be either massively overwhelming, a logistical nightmare or a fresh start!  We took the fresh start approach and decided to move with only suitcases.  We arrived in Portugal with 21 suitcases, paid about $3,000 in luggage fees and started our new life.

However, there is still the stress of what to bring to Portugal.  We allowed each child to have a checked bag to fill with whatever sentimental or functional items they wanted (excluding electronics due to currency differences).  They packed a variety of things from stuffed animals to books to toys.  I also allowed myself a few checked bags for rare kitchen items, magnetic tile toys, books in English, our favorite bamboo sheets, etc.  Thankfully, you can find nearly everything you want in stores in Portugal!  There are just a few exceptions to this … and we tend to export them back!

We are lucky enough to be able to travel to the USA on a reasonably regular basis (about once a quarter), and I have created a sort of list of the “must-haves” we want to bring back with us each time.  I’ve also scoured expat groups to find out what is common for other expats to bring with the goal of helping other families considering the move to Portugal.

How to Bring Things Back to Portugal

Before fully diving into the items, I’d like to provide information on how we do it.  There are several ways to import items to Portugal, and most of them are straightforward.  So, after four years of living here, we have our tips and tricks on how to do so.

• The first one and simplest: by traveling.  We go back to America regularly for work and to see family and friends.  Of course, we take advantage of our trip to grab all we can and pack it in our bags!  However, you should always consider that:
  
  • You may have to pay and document your bag if you bring liquids.  Like sodas, shampoos, skincare products and more. (This is if you are pulled by customs, which thankfully, we have avoided most of the time!)
    
  • Some items are prohibited in airlines and through customs: raw meat, seeds and dairy products.  However, make sure to check with your airline, as this may vary.  Note: I’ve also gotten away with this and brought back ground sausage (something I have yet to find in Portugal), but I try not to, as this is both against airline policy and customs.
    
• Online shopping: This is also one of the easiest. Amazon Spain is great for quick shopping for some goods.  We buy snacks, sometimes medicine and skincare products. You can also use more specialized websites for shopping like Etsy, AliExpress or Shopify.  But you will have to keep in mind that some online stores send their items through DHL (a logistics company), meaning you’ll have to have the correct documentation for customs.  

I really try to avoid shipping to Portugal from other countries after several failed attempts with customs.  I bought an item from London once for a gift, and it was sent back to me after I failed to pay the import fee.  I had not understood the email and thought it was spam!  Buying in the EU is much easier!

Cooking Essentials We Bring to Portugal

Good were the days when I would walk into Target’s pantry sections and get all my spices, kid’s snacks and just about any essential food for cooking!  Don’t get me wrong; I love grocery stores in Portugal.  They have their charm and unique products that we all love now.  But sometimes we all miss certain things you can only get in America.  Technically, there is a Costco in Madrid, which is only a six-hour drive, but I have yet to go there just for a food run. 🙂

Here’s what I’m usually stuffing my suitcases with on the way back:

• Baking ingredients that are hard to find or way too small in Portugal.  Europe is overall compact … cars are smaller, beds are smaller, roads are narrower.  Cooking items are no different.  They are tiny to fit into tiny kitchens!  Our large family just needs some of the big guns to keep me from running to the grocery store every day (another European habit), so I like to bring back:
  
  • Powdered sugar from Costco (5 lb bags!)
    
  • Large peanut butter
    
  • Chocolate chips (bags are WAY too small here)
    
  • Vanilla extract
    
  • Garlic powder
    
  • Onion powder
    
  • Garlic and Herb seasoning from Costco
    
  • Minced, jarred garlic
    
  • Taco seasoning
    
  • Pumpkin puree (I’ve made it myself in Portugal, but it’s way easier to bring back!)
    
  • Maple syrup
    
  • Other baking chips (peanut butter, mint chips, vanilla chips, etc) for making American cookies!
    
  • Anti-bacterial wipes from Amazon (for easier cleanup)
    
• Condiments and sauces we love.  We are BIG fans of Chick-fil-A (who’s not?). Of course, we have to bring some of their delicious sauce!
  
  • BBQ sauce (not quite the same in Portugal)
    
  • Enchilada sauce (I have never found this)
    
  • Green salsa
    
  • Cholula
    
  • Large Sriracha 

American Must-Have Snacks We Can’t Give Up

Some days, we just crave food from Portugal, but others, we dream about our favorite snacks back in the US.  Whenever we go there, we take the opportunity to buy candies or visit our favorite restaurants (I always take the chance to enjoy some Chick-fil-A).  Here are some essential snacks I always bring back!

• Our favorite snacks and food to bring.  There are some snacks, candies or even drinks that we can’t get enough of. These include:
  
  • Peanut Butter M&Ms
    
  • Large jars of peanut butter (We all love Skippy, and while I can find it, I can only find small versions.)
    
  • Fruit snacks
    
  • Chick-fil-a sauce (I bring this by the large bottle, and guests love it!)
    
  • Beef jerky (Probably not totally allowed, but we love it.)
    
  • Things like Skinny Dipped Nuts or your particular treat of choice.

Where to Find American Products in Portugal

If you are not regularly traveling back and forth (or don’t have a friend like me—I am happy to bring back stuff for anyone!)  Don’t stress!  You still have some options to get your favorite goods.

The good news is that there are stores in Portugal where you can buy American products!  The most mentioned stores mentioned in forums were:

• The Chilli Experience: In this online store, you can find mostly a lot of spices and sauces and not only American cuisine.  You can also find specialized products from China, Mexico and beyond.  So, if you’re looking for chili powder, BBQ or ranch dressing, you will surely find them here.
  
• Liberty American Store: Looking for candies, sodas or a specific cereal?  Then look no further, as this store can satisfy your cravings!  This store, located in Lisbon, specializes in bringing American snacks or food, and one thing that surprised me is that their prices are not even expensive. 

• Glood:  Our local one went out of business or moved.  But there is still a location open in Lisbon! Super recommended, it has a lot of international snacks and products that will definitely be worth stopping by.

Personal Care and Medicines We Import to Portugal

When it comes to personal care items, toiletries and medicines, I tend to still bring back some items.  This is NOT strictly necessary, but more of a preference.  

Go-To Brands of Toiletries/ Personal Care Items We Stock Up On

Some of the personal care brands we tend to stock up:

• Dr. Teal’s. It has a great range of relaxing salts, sprays, oils, lotions, and more.  And when you have a crew as big as mine, some Dr. Teal’s can help everyone at home relax!  Plus, all their products smell so good and have a great quality overall.
  
• Zicam.  I love this stuff for avoiding the cold (especially when traveling).  I ALWAYS have it on hand!  One sore throat, and I’m sucking on these lozenges.
  
• iS Clinical products.  Amazing skin care recommended by my dermatologist.  The active serum helps me avoid humidity breakouts on my face and has been a game changer.
  
• Elta MD sunscreen lotion.  Also helps adult acne and helps with that amazing Portuguese sun.
  
• Vitamins D, B complex, fish oil, Airborne gummies, probiotics, multi vitamin(catalyn) and more make up our bathroom cabinet!
  
• Purology hair shampoo and conditioner for me and the girls, T-gel shampoo for the boys.  I haven’t loved the salon products I’ve tried in Portugal, so I keep bringing them with me.

We also bring our trusted deodorants, some special shampoos and even dental care products that are either more expensive or hard to find here.  For example, the most mentioned products on forums for this category are dental hygiene products like toothpaste, mouthwash, and dental floss. 

Tip: If you have a specific hair type, especially people with super curly, frizzy or textured hair, make sure to bring your favorite products, as availability can be limited!

Baby and Kids Essentials You Might Need

When my kids were younger, I would use some very specific products for them.  However, Portugal has great pharmacies where you can find some really good options or dupes.  I also remember, when we were on the road, we found it easier to bring specific products. For example, diaper creams, baby sunscreen and children’s vitamins that we’re already used to. 

Some items I have heard can be hard to find:

• Speciality baby foods or products you prefer, like diaper rash cream.
  
• Onsies for babies.  My friend Allie had a baby and couldn’t find the footie one-piece anywhere!

• Sleep sacks.  I swore by these and don’t think they are big in Portugal.
  
•  Baby body wash.  You can find these products in Portugal, but if you’re looking for a specific brand then this one will be great for your baby!
  
• Snacks or food.  Looking for some specific food for the little ones?  On Amazon, you can find great packages that are organic and perfect to cover your baby’s needs when they’re hungry!

Medicine and Supplements to Bring from the US to Portugal

Although we usually do not focus on bringing medicine, we do consider our supplements, vitamins and proteins.  But, for some people, certain painkillers are a must, so you might consider bringing to Portugal:

• Over-the-Counter Must-Haves: Some of these products must be in your house, maybe something you don’t want to let go.  For example, pain relievers, cold meds like Nyquill and Dayquill, allergy medicines and cough medicine are always in our bags when returning from a trip home.
  
• Kid-Specific Products: There are also some products that we love that are only for our kids like children’s motrin, probiotics and even motion sickness bands.  The last ones are perfect for travel days (especially when hopping on a boat) with kids!
  
• Supplements and Vitamins: Last time we went to the United States, we bought a protein powder at Costco but you can also get this one on Amazon.  One great purchase you can also make are multivitamins for women or for men and immune boosters.

Electronics and Gadgets We Brought

Some electronics and appliances we were able to bring from the US to Portugal.  We bring all of our Apple products from the US to get the US version, and it is always cheaper in the US.  In fact, I’ve brought Airpods back for my friends in Portugal, since they are about 30 percent cheaper.

There are also some gadgets we buy here.  Any kitchen appliance I would NOT recommend bringing, nor any hair appliance.  You can find those in Portugal. 

I recommend you buy a power adapter so your tech lasts and doesn’t get broken.

Clothing, Shoes and Shops We Miss

When I was going through some expat forums, I was surprised by the amount of people who mention they wish they’d gotten more socks, sneakers or overall cotton clothing! I have to admit, when we go to the US, we do take our time in stores like T.J. Maxx. 

It’s perfect for stocking up on great quality clothing at affordable prices!  And when you have five kids, saving a few bucks is worth it.  I use Amazon Spain a lot for clothing for the kids as well, but I am not a big mall shopper.  I’m all about getting it done as fast as possible.

However, while Portugal offers really nice clothing stores and brands, there are certain items and stores that we miss sometimes.  Plus, some people have mentioned that they have sizing struggles in Portugal, and one of the things they struggle the most with is shoes and clothes, especially for tall people!  I’m no small lady, so sometimes the stores don’t even carry my size.  US sizing is much better for me.

Some items I recommend bringing are:

• Shoes: Whether you’re currently struggling with your shoe sizing or with finding good sports shoes, we understand! We travel a lot, so we usually have to get comfortable shoes for walking for women, for men, and for my kids (boys and girls).  Sometimes the easiest way to do it is by shopping online or buying them in the US if you’re there.
  
• Socks: This was one of the most mentioned items people wish they’d brought more of! And we get it.  Sizing can be a bit weird, quality sometimes can be underwhelming, some wear out quickly and they just feel uncomfortable.  Quality is not usually the same for clothes in Portugal.  So, we love to buy them from the US because they can also be cheaper!

• Seasonal Clothing: We travel a lot! We go to places where the weather is super cold or to places where it is extremely hot. We like to buy some seasonal clothes in the US as it can be easier or cheaper like winter boots and rain gear.
  
• Activewear: Finally, whether you are pretty active or looking for sporty clothes for your kids, some brands like Lululemon or Nike can be hard to find, as well as good quality cotton clothing.  So be sure to take advantage of outlet stores in the US if you’re going soon!

Other Things We Bring from the US

There are some kitchen items we love to pack for different reasons.  Some are that we can’t find items that are the same quality or they are not common here. For instance, one of the most mentioned things in expat groups were:

•  trash bags
  
• aluminum foil
  
• ziplock bags
  
• good measuring cups

We also sometimes get school and office supplies, like water bottles for the kids, notebooks or any type of school supplies that they might be needing at the time.  They may also need things like pens, backpacks, cool lunchboxes and more!

And finally, holiday items or board games!  We love board games at the house and also love to cherish traditional American holidays, like Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas. While I can order some things on Amazon Spain, or even pay for Amazon US to ship and tackle customs, it’s always easiest to bring it with me!  Here are some of the things I’ve been glad I’ve brought from the US:

• Board games in English.  Our favorites include King Domino, Queen Domino, Cover Your Assets, Nertz, Five Crowns, Settler’s, Ticket to Ride, Secret Hilter.
  
• Halloween decorations.  I love a good wreath, table covering or table decoration!  The only Halloween decorations I’ve found in Portugal are at the Chinese stores and the quality is terrible.
  
• Candy canes!  Not available at all in Portugal.  Many Portuguese think mint taste is the same as toothpaste, and they don’t like it!  However, you can find some that like it.  I always make mint chocolate treats of some kind at Christmas, and it’s about 50/50 on whether the Portuguese will eat it or spit it right back out!

Bonus Tips for Importing to Portugal

Finally, here are some bonus tips for making your adventure importing products to Portugal from the US a great one! And also some of the things we’ve learned along the way:

1. Checking bags vs. shipping: If you’re planning on buying things that are too bulky, delicate or big liquids, consider shipping. However, for small manageable things, checking bags will be the easiest and most convenient way to import.
   
2. Dealing with customs in Portugal: Depending on what you’re importing, know what you have to declare and check VAT rules and fees.  Some packages will require payment on delivery if they’re over a certain value.
   
3. Online store backups: Amazon US doesn’t always have it all or doesn’t have the best prices, so be sure to check other options like other Amazon Europe stores or big stores like El Corte Inglés Portugal.
   
4. Products you’ll find in local stores: items like dairy,  fresh food, veggies, fruits, pasta or meat are items you can rest assured you’ll find in Portugal.  Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things!
   
5. Affordable local brands: toiletries, cleaning products and even eco-friendly options are widely available in Portuguese stores and sometimes they can be cheaper than imported versions.  Try some of them and give them a chance!

Additional Readings

Renting, Buying, Or Shipping A Car In PortugalHow To Find A Rental Home In Portugal: What To Look For And What To Avoid
How To Obtain A Portuguese D7 Visa For Your Family: Everything You Need To Know