What should I pack when moving to Russia?
We asked people living in Russia to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded...
"When we moved here 7-1/2 years ago I could say I wish I had brought EVERYTHING and then some. Now most everything is available that one could find in say Stockholm or Prague. Luxury goods are still overinflated price-wise, but day to day things are comparable or cheaper than in Western Europe unless you shop in places strictly catering to foreigners. Computer gear is much cheaper in the States than here or Europe generally. Bring quality clothing to last for your stay. Here it's generally Wal-Mart quality at Nieman-Marcus prices," remarked another expat who made the move to St. Petersburg, Russia.
"You can pretty much get everything in Moscow now (although some basic things are still ridiculously expensive!), but I would take Marmite and Pimm's. We left most things at home due to customs as we didn't want any hassle when leaving the country in terms of additional paperwork," explained one expat living in Moscow, Russia.

Get Quote
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote
Please login to continue reading this article.
Not a member? Join Today (it's free).
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Russia?
- How do I meet people in Russia?
- What is life like in Russia?
- Is there a lot of crime in Russia?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Russia accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Russia like?
- Is the cost of living in Russia high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Russia?
- What are healthcare services like in Russia?
- Is the cost of living in Russia high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Russia?
- What is the weather like in Russia?
- Are there good restaurants in Russia?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Russia?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Russia?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Russia?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Russia?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Russia?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What should I pack when moving to Russia?
If you live in Russia, newcomers to Russia would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.