When I first came to the Netherlands I brought things that were useful and many others that were not at all, probably because I wanted to “bring” some of my lifestyle in Mexico to wear it in the lowlands… For example, I brought dresses, thin sweaters and at least 3 pairs of sunglasses; only to realize that I would hardly ever wear summer dresses, my thin “sweaters” became blouses, and I barely wear the sunglasses.
Packing to live in a new country requires understanding what kind of lifestyle you will have and forgetting about the one you hope to have, especially when it comes to weather and culture.
Here is my list of 12 things I suggest you bring to NL!
1. A raincoat
A raincoat is the first on my list because having rain practically every other day is a default. Weather in the Netherlands can be quite unpredictable and this means that it can start to rain suddenly on any day even if 5 minutes ago the sun was shining. Raincoats are especially good since there is a big cycling culture here and you will want to stay dry as you cycle. Yes you got it right… the Dutch do not stop to cycle even if it is raining, they even have a saying… “we are not made of sugar to be afraid of the rain”
2. An umbrella
And a foldable one so that you can put it in your bag not one of those long ones that seem like a cane, be practical. If you find a transparent one even better. There will be many occasions in which you might get caught walking in the city or going to the supermarket when it suddenly starts to rain. If you do not have a raincoat with you, you definitely will want an umbrella. Sometimes the wind may blow strong and you will bring the umbrella quite close to your face. A transparent umbrella will permit some visibility despite that.
3. Cash
Today there are more and more venues and shops that accept credit cards. Nevertheless, in many places, they still only accept debit cards but of Maestro and never by Visa or Mastercard. Have some cash with you, if possible bring already Euros, if not USD or any other strong currency so that you exchange it on arrival at the airport.
4. A daily life backpack
Back in Mexico, I used to wear nice handbags to hang across my body or from my shoulder – in the Netherlands that does not work. Riding a bike requires that your hands are free and your ride comfortable. I suggest you find a small bag – backpack style- where you carry around everything here (e.g. the foldable umbrella). If you would like to bring nice handbags, perhaps choose one for special occasions, but not too many, you will not use them.
5. Scarves, beanies, and gloves
One thing I suggest avoiding is to layer up too many sweaters and then ride a bike feeling all clumsy and unable to move. Moreover, this will get you feeling extremely warm in a very short ride. To stay warm as you ride a bike (or walk in the street) I suggest that you prepare for the wind and rain and bring the following
- A pair of waterproof and windproof gloves – you want your hands to stay warm and dry
- Beanies – light enough so that they do not fall off your head as you cycle, with no fluffy decorations so that you can wear them under a helmet if necessary.
- Scarves – they will wrap under your neck and prevent you from getting the flu
6. Sneakers
In the Netherlands, you will walk and ride a bike daily. The Dutch are very practical and relaxed when it comes to their way of dressing, this includes wearing sneakers practically every day. When I arrived in NL and went to the bank for the first time, I was shocked when I saw that the ladies working inside were not wearing heels instead they were wearing running shoes! But of course, what else to expect if they probably cycled to work early in the morning? Today I can tell you that even at work, my bosses and managers wear sneakers to work, and that is all I wore while studying as well. Do not worry about bringing waterproof shoes, no one wears rainboots here every day. Not even kids.
7. A winter jacket
Ideally it must be waterproof and I suggest that you choose one that is mid-lap length. Something shorter will not keep you warm while cycling, something longer (ankle length) will be impractical when riding a bike. When I had just moved here I had a jacket that could zip from bottom to top and from top to bottom, this was ideal because I could have it a bit open in the lower part, allowing my legs more freedom of movement when getting on the bike and cycling.
8. European power adaptor
And several of them, remember that in the EU the electricity outputs are different to those in the Americas, I suggest you bring at least 10, it is very annoying to be moving them around from one appliance to another. Think of it: cellphones, tablets, laptops, hairstyling appliances, electric razors, etc etc.
9. Casual Clothes
Another cultural shock I faced was the way of dressing. The Dutch do not overdress, this also means that they can be very casual in the way they expect you to dress for work, for school, and in the streets. The Dutch are open-minded and respectful of every person’s choices. If you move to the Netherlands for work or study, a business casual style will be more than enough.
10. Medicine
The healthcare system in the Netherlands is very particular. Scarce medicines are available off the counter – stomach aches, headaches, PMS, and flues, are mostly treated with Paracetamol, or left to heal on their own. Even birth control pills must be bought with a prescription, So bringing a first aid kit is highly advisable with all the medicine you know you might need.
11. Food
Last but not least don’t forget to bring some of your favorite food and snacks if possible. The Netherlands offers everything, but it takes to discover the online and walk-in shops where you can buy your favorite ingredients for the food you like to eat, so carry some comfort food. With time you will learn what you can definitely not find here or what is way cheaper back home.
So there you have it, a list of 12 things I wish someone would have advised me to bring to the Netherlands, it would have made my arrival smoother and my suitcases way more practical lighter, and probably just 1 instead of 2! I hope you find it useful!
With love,
Sofía
