expat network

Where Can You Purchase Pickleball Paddles When You’re an Expat?

I lived as an expat in Uganda and Kenya years ago, so I want to share some ideas where you can purchase a pickleball paddle if you’re an expat. If you’ve moved overseas and still want to play pickleball, you’re not alone. The sport is booming internationally and so is the demand for quality gear. In addition, pickleball is a great way to build community which is crucial as an expat.

But as an expat, getting your hands on a reliable pickleball paddle can feel a little tricky. Whether you’re living in Europe, Asia, or somewhere in between, here are your best options for buying a pickleball paddle abroad.

Consider Bringing Your Best Pickleball Paddle With You

Thankfully, when you travel abroad, you generally will pack a suitcase and check in your luggage.

Some of the best pickleball paddles are up to 16.5 inches long, so you could easily fit that in a normal sized checked-in luggage.

If you can’t do that or just started playing pickleball as an ex pat, let’s go through 6 things to consider.

1. Check Local Sports Stores (Yes, Really)

While pickleball isn’t as mainstream globally as it is in the U.S., it’s starting to gain traction in many countries. That means some larger sporting goods chains are beginning to stock paddles.

Look for stores like:

Decathlon (Europe, Asia, Latin America)
Intersport (Europe)
Sports Direct (UK)

Even if the selection is limited, you might find beginner or mid-range paddles from brands like Franklin or HEAD. Some stores can even place special orders if you ask.

2. Buy from Amazon (Country-Specific Versions)

Amazon makes it surprisingly easy to get pickleball paddles in countries like:

Canada (Amazon.ca)
UK (Amazon.co.uk)
Germany (Amazon.de)
Japan (Amazon.co.jp)
Australia (Amazon.com.au)

Be sure to compare shipping rates and read the fine print on import duties. Some listings are fulfilled by third-party sellers and may come with longer delivery times.

3. Order from U.S. Retailers That Ship Internationally

Several U.S.-based pickleball companies do ship overseas. Here’s a quick list of popular retailers that expats often rely on:

PickleballCentral.com – Ships worldwide, though shipping can be expensive.
JustPaddles.com – May offer international options or work through freight forwarding services.
TotalPickleball.com – Limited international shipping but solid customer service for special requests.

Reach out to customer service if your country isn’t listed, they may be able to create a custom shipping quote.

4. Use a Freight Forwarder

If you’re living in a country with limited shipping access, consider using a freight forwarding service. These companies give you a U.S. address, receive your order, and then ship it to your international location.

Popular freight forwarding services include:

Shipito
MyUS
Stackry

It’s a little extra work, but it opens up all U.S.-based pickleball stores.

5. Facebook Groups and Local Pickleball Clubs

I am in many pickleball Facebook groups, so consider searching for ex pat pickleball group in the area where you live.

Sometimes the easiest route is the most social. If you’re already part of an expat pickleball group or local club, ask where others are getting their paddles.

Many communities do group orders to save on shipping, or someone may be flying in soon and can bring one with them. Also, secondhand paddles often get traded in expat groups.

6. Buy While Traveling

If you’re planning a trip back to the U.S. or a country with better paddle access, use the opportunity to pick one up. Many expats stock up on paddles, balls, and gear while visiting home.

Keep in mind that some paddles are fragile, so protect them during your flight. Please note that your paddle purchased abroad may not be USAP approved, but that may only matter if you play tournaments in the US. That said, you may want to check specific country paddle’s guidelines.

Final Thoughts

Living abroad doesn’t mean you have to give up on quality pickleball gear. With a bit of creativity, whether that’s Amazon, local shops, or freight forwarders, you can still play with the paddle you love.

And who knows? You might even introduce the sport to your new country.

Moving Abroad Checklist

Initial Considerations

Will your partner be travelling with you?

If so, what will they be giving up in your present home and will they be able to continue with their career in your new home? You will need to check whether a separate visa is required for your partner to work or if your visa gives that right. If they are unable to work you will need to decide on the effect on your finances and what alternatives are available to give a fulfilling life (home business, training, voluntary work).

Are you taking family with you?

Moving with family raises many exciting opportunities, but also can create challenges. The HSBC Expat Explorer survey indicates that expat kids can take six months to settle in to their new country (see article). Getting young or even older children to prepare to move and leave their friends and family behind can be a challenge and should be thought through.

The options for education is another area that needs to be thought through.

Moving your child to a new country with a different education system can be a great opportunity to broaden their experience, but if they are close to key exams the timing can make this inadvisable. If you do take your family with you, it is important to decide between joining the local school system or choosing an international school.

Where will you be living?

Whether you will be living in a house or apartment, furnished or unfurnished, these decisions will affect what you need to take with you. The time you are planning to live overseas will also affect whether you should leave your property at home empty, rent it out or sell it. See the article Sell, Store or Ship.