When you think about traveling abroad, you think of vacation hotspots that fit the mold of sunny beaches, palm trees, and attractive men and women.
However, traveling abroad has far more to it than that, and many Americans have figured that out, with almost half of those moving abroad wanting to stay abroad possibly forever.
Moving abroad can be tricky though. There are many things you have to consider and do before boarding that plane. If you are looking for how to move overseas, then this is for you. Here are some things to make the process more smooth.
Save as much Money as Possible
Before making the decision of leaving, you must first save some money, and not just a few hundred dollars. A general rule of thumb is to have at least six months’ worth of saving before departure.
But this should include the cost of living expenses, a few month’s rent, and even a rainy day fund for unforeseen miscellaneous expenses that always pop up when moving abroad.
Talk to Your Bank
Should be sure to maintain your bank account and finances in your home country so that you are able to pay for outstanding loans and bills back home.
Also, make sure that they know you are outside of the country because they may flag your account for suspicious and/or fraudulent activity.
To Ship or Not to Ship?
Sometimes when making the move abroad you will want to bring your things with you, rather than leave them at home or in your parent’s basement/attic. There are two ways to bring your things abroad in bulk and they both have pros and cons.
Air vs. Sea
With air freight forwarders, you get the distinct advantages that you don’t get with sea freight. Your things come in a few days and if necessary can come sooner than that.
However, that convenience in time spent rears its head by way of expense. With sea freight, you will pay only a fraction of the cost for air freight, but wouldn’t receive it for at least another month.
Do Your Research
Researching is paramount to a successful move abroad. A place may be nice for vacation, but that doesn’t mean they’ll be as nice to permanently live.
What’s the Cost of Living?
Cost of Living and Rates of Exchange need to be well known for the country you are moving and spending your money in. You want to know how far your money stretches in that country, at least for the beginning.
Understand the Language and Culture
Knowing at least a little about the country’s culture before moving there will aid you in moving abroad as well; that includes the language they speak if it is not English.
You don’t want to find yourself in any cultural misunderstandings that can put you in harm’s way.
How to Move Overseas the Right Way
Moving abroad can seem exhilarating and scary all at the same time. But to conquer this fear follow this procedure on how to move overseas. Before you know it, you’ll be living life to the fullest.
Don’t let the fear stop you. The world is a big place, get out there and explore it. For other great articles like this one, be sure to visit the rest of our blog.
