Job Discussion Forums

[Mike410]

I'm just wondering how others travel between contracts with all their stuff.
As ESL teachers generally need to carry more than a backpacker would, how do you manage that when you don't have an apartment to store your stuff somewhere?

Do you leave extra stuff in self storage at places than collect and move on to a new country or do you just carry less stuff?

[MotherF]

I haven't moved in a long time, but nowadays you can carry hundreds of books, hours of music, thousands of photos, and scans of all your documents in the palm of your hand.

If you are thinking things like housewares, you just have to get new stuff at each move. In some countries schools will have a furnished apartment with all that stuff that gets passed from teacher to teacher.

[nomad soul]

Like others, I sell and/or donate items before moving on. However, my contracts have included either a generous furniture allowance or fully-furnished accommodation (complete with appliances, eating utensils, cooking supplies, bedding, etc.). I usually bring along any additional items with me during my short trips back to the US (bought from thrift stores) or I purchase them in my new location. (I'm also creative and can improvise with basic materials and supplies. )

Overall, it depends on your benefits (if any) but also the length of contract---whether it's short term or for a 2 to 3-year stint. That is, those staying on for a longer period of time in one location or with the same employer tend to settle down for a spell versus moving here and there and constantly having to deal with unloading stuff they've accumulated.

[JustinC]

I carry more clothes, a laptop and a French press. Otherwise, I'll get it all when I get there.

[damn_my_eyes]

It's a liberating feeling being able to stick all your worldly belongings in a couple of bags...and do a midnight runner