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Departure preparation for your working holiday (the full guide)
Departure preparation for your working holiday (the full guide)
Article Summary
- Choosing between a suitcase and a backpack depends on your budget and travel plans: suitcases hold more and are easier to organise, Pvtistes note.
- Backpacks offer freedom of movement, but back problems may favor a suitcase; hikers may need a higher-quality bag.
- When choosing a suitcase, check wheels, handles, and zippers; also pick the lightest model and weigh hard shell vs canvas. Show more

Packing your bags

Before you start packing for your working holiday, you’ll have to decide how light you want to travel. Do you want to bring a suitcase or two, or just a large backpack?

The decision is entirely dependent on what kind of traveller you are. Most people bring both a backpack and at least one suitcase.

Suitcases

You should consider bringing a suitcase or two if:

  • You plan to have a sedentary lifestyle.
  • You hope to stay longer in the country even after your working holiday.
  • Your plane ticket already includes an allowance for checked bags.
  • You want to bring essentials from home to avoid having to re-buying them once you arrive.

Choosing the right suitcase

  • Make sure the wheels and zippers are sturdy. 4-wheelers are also more versatile than 2-wheelers.
  • Choose a lightweight material. Hard shell suitcases offer better protection and weather resistance than canvas suitcases but are usually more expensive.
  • For carry-ons, ensure the dimensions are within the limits for the international and domestic flights that you plan to take.

Backpacks

Travelling with just a backpack might be for you if:

  • You plan to have a nomadic/backpacker lifestyle, changing locations frequently.
  • You already have a minimalist lifestyle and don’t need many belongings.
  • You’re paranoid about airlines losing checked bags.

Choosing the right backpack

A good backpack is worth the investment and you should choose carefully.

  • Backpacks with a clamshell-style opening are a smart choice for travellers. They give greater access to items at the bottom.
  • Decide what the right volume is for you. 20L, 30L, 40L… every litre makes a difference in how much you can pack.
  • Choose a lightweight material.
  • Side compartments for a water bottle or umbrella are handy.
  • Consider waterproof lining for rainy destinations.
  • Make sure the organizational compartments reflect your needs (e.g., pockets for sunglasses, camera, shoes, electronics etc.).

What to pack for a working holiday

Packing for a long stay abroad can feel overwhelming. Everyone’s list will look different depending on their destination and personal needs, but for some inspiration, below are what a few actual working holiday makers packed.

Meghan and Jackson from Canada both went on a working holiday in France, but they took very different approaches when it comes to packing. Read more about how they decided on what to bring and what they regret not bringing.

backpack3
Aiyana from the United Kingdom went to Canada on a working holiday, and here is what she packed. Click here for her personal recommendations.
Canada WHV packing

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