This is not intended as an official packing list but rather suggestions to help you decide what to take with you when moving to Germany.
There are many factors to take into consideration, like the size of your new living space, your lifestyle, the time schedule of your shipment, and the availability of items in Germany.
Take time to research the following questions
This is one of the biggest factors that shapes what (and how) you pack. If you’re moving straight into your own rental or furnished apartment, you’ll likely have more stability and storage space from day one. But if you’re starting off in temporary accommodation — like an Airbnb, serviced apartment, or with friends — your needs shift.
Before you ship the toaster, tumble dryer, and those perfectly pleated curtains, ask yourself: Will they even fit in or switch on? German plug types, voltage differences, and oddly-sized curtain rails can turn your SA essentials into expensive dead weight.
Do you know the size of your new home? Houses in Europe tend to be much smaller, and might possibly not be on the ground floor.
Will it be cheaper to buy new furniture and appliances, or is shipping the best option
Will your container be waiting when you arrive, or will you have to wait for it to arrive? Can you do without your belongings during this time?
Most likely your furniture will need to be disassembled in order to get it into your new home (5th floor apartment for example).
Pack the must-haves you’ll need immediately: clothing for the season, travel documents, chargers, medication, and a few comfort items to soften your landing.
Keep originals of passports, birth and marriage certificates, academic records, medical documents, and insurance in your hand luggage — not the sea crate!
Photo albums, family heirlooms, a few treasured keepsakes — these are worth bringing, but keep it practical. If it’s precious and packable, it makes the cut.
Reserve this space for bulky or valuable long-term items — like furniture, kitchenware, or sentimental goods you won’t need right away.
Germany uses 230V with Type C/F plugs, so double-check compatibility before you pack. Brands like Defy or Mellerware? You won’t find spare parts here, so if it breaks, it’s bin time..
Don’t waste space on items that are affordable and widely available in Germany — think dustbins, glasses, kettles, and IKEA-style basics. Just make a list and shop here!
We are all individuals with different needs, which makes it difficult to say what items you have to take with you, no matter the inconvenience or cost.
Moving to a new country is both exciting and stressful, and in my opinion is it helps to have familiar things with you, especially for children.
Your belongings will most probably be shipped via a container, and the luggage allowance on your flight.
Environ your daily routine, think about laundry, preparing food, cleaning, even silly things like toilet paper.
Envision your first three months as well. What are the must-have items that you cannot do without, while also considering the shipping schedule?
Does it make sense to ship towels if you will need them as soon as you arrive? It might be better to buy new ones or pack them in your checked luggage.
Here are our suggestions that belong on the “take with” list:
Grocery Shopping in Germany Made Simple Stepping into a German supermarket for the first time can feel overwhelming. The store layout is unfamiliar, your go-to brands might be missing, and figuring out what to call plastic wrap in German can be challenging. This guide is here to help! We’ve gathered essential tips, a list of popular grocery stores, and convenient delivery options to make your shopping experience easier. Where to shop for groceries (Lebensmittel) When
After a visit to SA or expecting guests from home? These essentials are the treasures that everyone ends up wishing they’d packed.
Check customs regulations and the notes below
How to Dress for the German Winter: Practical Tips for Visitors German winters are renowned for being cold, wet, and windy, characterised by slippery roads and frequent rainfall. If you’re visiting Germany this season, dressing appropriately will ensure comfort and warmth while going about daily activities like dining out or taking public transport. Here’s how to layer and choose your clothing. 🌟 This guide is not intended for winter sports like skiing or staying outdoors
Please refer to the German Customs (ZOLL) website for a complete list of what items you are not allowed to bring in. Here is just a hi-light of the major restictions
1
You are allowed to bring 3 months’ worth of medicine for personal use with you. Take them with you in person and have the relevant prescriptions with you.
2
You will need the necessary health certificates to bring along any product of animal origin, this includes animal skins, biltong, milk products (chocolates, evaporated milk, certain tangy mayonnaise), etc. See more on the Customs website
3
Be very careful with wooden items, make sure with your shipping company if they will be allowed in Germany, also refer to the customs website. Nuts are also not allowed, nor seeds
What can I bring into Germany It is very tempting to bring some South African goodies with you when you travel to Germany, and while most items are allowed, there are Restrictions. There is also a limit on duty-free allowances. Zollamt Germany’s customs authority is known as the Zollamt, and they take their job seriously. The information below is especially relevant to travellers coming from South Africa (or any country outside the Schengen Area). If you’re
Substitutes and Food Info Finding familiar South African flavours in Germany can sometimes feel like a culinary treasure hunt. Luckily, many of our favourite products are now just a click away.And when that one special ingredient seems impossible to find—don’t fret. Germany offers plenty of excellent substitutes that work beautifully in our beloved recipes.We’ve gathered a list of tried-and-true alternatives for you, complete with helpful German translations to make your shopping easier. Below you’ll find
Spring in Germany Embrace the Blossoming Beauty of Spring As winter loosens its grip, Germany transforms into a canvas painted with vibrant hues of blooming flowers, fresh greenery, and sun-dappled landscapes. Spring, spanning March to May, invites you to step outside, breathe in the crisp air, and experience the country’s charming blend of tradition and natural beauty In South Africa, spring is brief but vibrant, starting with blooming trees that burst into color almost overnight.
Discover everything you need to know about winter in Germany! From tips on staying warm to festive traditions and winter activities, make the most of the season.
Before embarking on your journey to Germany, it is crucial to be aware of all the administrative tasks that will require your attention. While this list is not solely focused on moving tasks, it serves as a comprehensive guide to all the essential administrative factors that need to be tended to before boarding the plane. By taking care of administrative aspects upfront, you can ensure a smoother transition to your new home in Germany without
Beds, Mattresses and Duvets The sleeping arrangements in Germany are a bit different from what we are used to in South Africa. The average German couple sleeps on a bed base with two single mattresses, and each with their own duvet.Some would argue for this, but I would at least want to share a duvet with my partner. I vacuum-packed all my queen-size duvets and brought them with me to Germany, together with my standard
German Climate Germany’s climate is temperate and marine, with cold, cloudy winters and warm summers and in the south occasional warm föhn wind. The greater part of Germany lies in the cool/temperate climatic zone in which humid westerly winds predominate. In the northwest and the north, the climate is oceanic and rain falls all year round. Winters here are relatively mild and summers comparatively cool.In the east, the climate shows clear continental features; winters can
Frequently Asked Questions Here are some frequently asked questions by South Africans who are planning to move to Germany for work, study or other reasons. Moving to a new country can be exciting yet overwhelming, so it’s important to have all the necessary information at your fingertips. In this section, we’ll cover some of the most common questions that newcomers to Germany have, so you can feel more prepared and confident. Will my children adapt
We’ve got a taste of home waiting for you.
From South African concerts to casual meetups across Germany—check out what’s happening near you.
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