What to Bring When Moving to Lisbon

Are you planning to move to Lisbon? Excellent decision! It's hard not to fall in love with the charms of this historic city. But we know that moving to a new city often comes with the challenge of remembering all the essential items to bring with you. In this article, we've got you covered. We aim to provide a comprehensive checklist of everything you might require for your move, from documents to household essentials. So let's start!

Valid Documents and Paperwork:

Before moving to Portugal, ensure you have all the necessary documents in order. This includes your passport, visa (if applicable), birth and marriage certificates, and any other identification or legal documents required for your specific situation. Make copies of these documents and keep them in a secure place. Keep in mind that if you are European you won’t have to worry.

International Driver's Permit:

For individuals moving to Portugal from overseas, obtaining an International Driver's Permit (IDP) may be necessary if you plan to drive in the country. An IDP serves as a recognized translation of your domestic driver's license and is typically required alongside your valid driver's license from your home country. It's important to note that IDPs are not a standalone document and must be used in conjunction with your original driver's license.

To obtain an IDP, you will typically need to apply for it in your home country before your move to Portugal. The process and timeframe for obtaining an IDP can vary depending on your home country's regulations and the organization issuing the permit. It is advisable to plan and allow ample time for obtaining the IDP to ensure you are legally eligible to drive in Portugal.

Note that some countries have a bilateral agreement with Portugal, so those driving licenses can be used generally if following some Portuguese basic rules, such as the minimum age to drive. Those countries are Australia, Brazil, Cape Verde, Canada, Chile, United States of America, Iceland, Israel, Japan, Mozambique, New Zealand, United Kingdom, Republic of Korea, São Tomé and Príncipe, Switzerland and Turkey.

Clothing for All Seasons:

Portugal's climate varies throughout the country, and Lisbon, being on the western coast, has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers. Here are some clothing recommendations to suit the different seasons in Lisbon:

Spring (March to May):

During spring, the weather in Lisbon tends to be mild and pleasant. It's a good idea to pack a mix of lightweight and medium-weight clothing. Consider bringing:

• T-shirts and light long-sleeved tops.
• Light sweaters or cardigans for cooler mornings or evenings.
• Comfortable pants or jeans.
• Light jackets or outerwear for occasional cooler days.

Summer (June to August):

Summers in Lisbon are warm and dry, with plenty of sunshine. The temperatures can reach high levels, so pack light, breathable clothing suitable for hot weather. Some essentials include:

• Lightweight and loose-fitting tops, such as T-shirts, tank tops, and blouses.
• Shorts, skirts, or lightweight pants.
• Sun hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen for protection from the sun.
• Comfortable sandals or breathable footwear.

Autumn (September to November):

Autumn in Lisbon is generally mild with some rainfall. It's advisable to pack a mix of clothing suitable for both warm and cooler temperatures. Consider including:

• T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, and lightweight sweaters.
• Comfortable pants and jeans.
• A light jacket or coat for cooler days and evenings.
• An umbrella or raincoat for occasional rainfall.

Winter (December to February):

Winters in Lisbon are mild but can have some chilly days. While it is not extremely cold, it's still important to have some warmer clothing options. Here are some suggestions:

• Sweaters, cardigans, and thicker long-sleeved tops.
• Jeans or pants.
• A warm coat or jacket for colder days.
• Scarves, hats, and gloves for added warmth.
• Waterproof footwear for rainy days.

It's also worth noting that Lisbon's coastal location can result in breezier conditions, so having layers and versatile clothing options is beneficial throughout the year. Don't forget to pack comfortable shoes for exploring the city on foot.

By considering the seasonal variations and packing accordingly, you can ensure that you are prepared for the weather in Lisbon throughout the year.

Household Essentials:

Consider bringing some essential household items to facilitate your adaptation to a new city. This might include bedding, towels, kitchen utensils, cookware, and small appliances that you regularly use. While these items can be purchased in Portugal, having familiar items from home can provide a sense of comfort during the initial transition.

Adapters and Electronics:

When moving to Lisbon, it's important to consider the electrical plugs and voltage used in Portugal to ensure compatibility with your electronic devices. Portugal uses two main types of electrical plugs:

Type C (Europlug): The Type C plug has two round pins and is commonly used in many European countries. It is the standard plug-in in Portugal. Besides Portugal, Type C plugs are also used in other countries such as Spain, France, Germany, Italy, and most of Europe.

Type F (Schuko): The Type F plug has two round pins and an additional grounding pin at the bottom. It is also commonly used in many European countries, including Portugal. This type is also used in countries like Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, and several others.

If you are coming from a country that uses a different plug type, such as the United States, Canada, or the United Kingdom, you will likely need to bring adapters or purchase them upon arrival. Here's a general guideline:

North American travelers: If you are coming from the United States or Canada, you will typically need adapters to convert your plugs to the Type C or Type F format used in Portugal. These adapters are readily available online or at travel accessory stores.

UK travelers: If you are coming from the United Kingdom, you will need adapters to convert your UK-style plugs (Type G) to Type C or Type F plugs used in Portugal. Adapters specifically designed for UK to Europlug or UK to Schuko conversions can be purchased.

Language Resources:

While English is commonly spoken in Lisbon, learning Portuguese will improve your experience and integration into the local community. Bring language-learning resources such as books, phrasebooks, or language-learning apps to help you get started. Practice with locals, in general, they will be willing to help you.

If you want to know some key words in Portuguese, we have prepared an everyday essentials guide for you: https://www.bleisured.com/post/portuguese-101-essential-words-and-phrases-for-everyday-life-in-portugal

Medications and Health-related Items:

If you take prescription medications, ensure you have an adequate supply to last until you can establish local healthcare services. Bring copies of your prescriptions and medical records, including any allergies or pre-existing conditions, for reference. Research health insurance options in Portugal to ensure coverage during the transition period.

Transportation Card:

Lisbon has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the metro. Consider getting a rechargeable transportation card (Viva Viagem) upon arrival, which allows you to conveniently use public transport without the hassle of purchasing individual tickets. If you want a more comprehensive post about this topic check this link: https://www.bleisured.com/post/public-transport-in-lisbon

Financial Considerations:

When moving to Lisbon, consider your financial needs and plan accordingly. Bring sufficient funds in the form of traveler's checks or currency, as well as an international credit or debit card. Familiarise yourself with Portuguese banking services and open a local bank account to facilitate financial transactions. If you want to find out how to open a banking account check this post: https://www.bleisured.com/post/opening-a-bank-account-in-portugal

Personal and Sentimental Items:

To make your new place in Lisbon feel like home, bring personal items that hold sentimental value. This could include family photos, artwork, mementos, or small keepsakes that remind you of loved ones or important moments in your life. These items can provide a sense of familiarity and comfort during the transition period. We know it's hard to decide what to bring and sometimes, packing a huge suitcase seems like the easiest option. But have in mind that especially in the old town, most of the apartments aren't that big, so space is limited after all and it can also be relieving to embrace a more minimalist lifestyle

Convertible Backpack or Tote Bag:

Lisbon is a city of hills and cobblestone streets, making it more convenient to have a versatile bag that can easily convert between a backpack and a tote bag. This way, you can comfortably navigate the city while having the flexibility to carry groceries or other items.

Portable Wi-Fi Router:

Having reliable internet access is crucial when settling into a new city. Consider bringing a portable Wi-Fi router that allows you to have a stable and secure internet connection at home until you can set up your own Wi-Fi service.

Starting a new chapter in Lisbon is exciting, and being well-prepared simplifies the journey. With our detailed checklist in hand, you're ready to make this transition smooth and organized. Here's to an enriching experience in your new Lisbon home!