What to Prepare for When Moving to Nairobi

So a Decluttering client was getting overwhelmed by her move to Nairobi. Packing up is always the hardest part of a move. It comes swift and no matter how much you prepare for it, it’s always a confusing and overwhelming time. Here are some things that I learned about Nairobi, Kenya from a quick google:

1. If you have a four-wheel drive it would be a good idea to bring it. If you don’t be sure to sell your car before moving because 4 wheel drives “are the only cars worth driving in and around Kenya.”
2. Think of bringing things to wear and use when joining a country club! Apparently “they aren’t too expensive in Kenya and it’s one of the best ways to socialise and make friends amongst the expat community.”
3. Invest in a lot of candles and some strong flashlights. I would also recommend bringing high-quality headlamps for each member of the family so it’s easier to move around when the power is out, which is quite often apparently.
4. I recommend buying Eneloop rechargeable batteries in bulk and high-quality portable phone chargers with a high mAh
5. Because of the blackouts, owning a generator would be good, but I’m not sure about the electricals of Nairobi so you may wanna check first before buying or bringing.
6. Because of water supply issues, having water tanks and huge pails to store water in the bathroom would be useful.
7. Bring clothing that is appropriate for the weather. With an annual low in July (10°C on average) and the hottest days in February (between 25° and 26°C), the weather is likely milder than Manila for sure. But just like Manila, Nairobi only has two seasons: wet from March to May, and the drier months.
8. Be sure to bring some fun stuff for the beach because of the white sand beaches of the Indian ocean. So if you need to order stuff from Decathlon, now is the time to do it. You may want to think of stuff for snorkeling, fishing, sailing and lazing around the beach.
9. What are expensive and limited in Nairobi, that you might want to prepare or bring:
   1. Clothes (though there is a 2nd hand clothes market for expats)
   2. Shoes
   3. Electrical items
   4. Toys
   5. Convenience foods & ready-made meals or any Western food items
   6. Healthy food items like seeds & muesli
   7. Beauty products
   8. Home furnishings
   9. Brand new and second-hand cars
   10. Security-related gadgets or anti-carjacking stuff
10. What’s affordable and plentiful:
    1. Organic fruits & vegetables
    2. Meat products
    3. Flowers

I found a super detailed post of what it’s like to live in Nairobi which I think deserves a good read:

7 Things I Wish I’d Known Before Moving to Nairobi

Packing List Essentials Guide for Moving To Nairobi

If you are moving and feeling overwhelmed, message me on my Instagram and let’s see how I can help you with your move! With the magic of Zoom I am now able to help people declutter anywhere in the wold!

Sources for the tips above:
Things to Know Before Relocating to Nairobi
Moving to Nairobi
Pros and Cons of Living in Nairobi