If you’re one of the lucky ones that get to have the once-in-a-lifetime experience of getting to move abroad as we did, then congratulations! Moving abroad is an incredible step in anyone’s life. It gives you the chance to gain a new perspective, maybe a new language, and truly immerse yourself in a brand new culture. Whether you’re moving for your career, school, love, or anything else, it’s a great opportunity.
However, it can be very expensive as well. When it comes to moving, it’s very expensive. But, when it comes to moving abroad, it’s going to be far pricier. You have a lot to think about such as plane tickets, moving all of your things, looking for a visa on their website, not to mention the paperwork and fees. While moving is expensive, there are thankfully some ways that you can save some money!
Work towards being debt-free before the move
You can’t escape your debts, even if you leave the country! Debt collectors will take what you owe them, and being across the ocean isn’t going to stop them either. It’s best to just go ahead and pay what you owe. This is going to be far less stressful. If possible, see if you can consolidate your credit. It could be one way to take care of this. And make sure to stay within your budget.
Stay in touch with financial institutions
It’s best to keep in touch with the financial institutions in your home country. Be sure to inform them that you’re leaving, but also request for them to not freeze your accounts or assets (unless that is what you’re wanting). Some banks won’t allow you to change your address if it means you’re going to be in another country. However, you can change it to a relative’s address in case you still need your bank account to be open. This may be one of the best ways to transfer money abroad frugally.
Look for flights in advance
Usually, the earlier you book your flight, the more money you’re going to save. It’s best to try and do this. Not only are you then going to have a final date of when the big move is going to happen, but this is also going to be a big motivator for you to begin packing up your things and getting the paperwork ready.
Downsize
Whether you plan to hire an international moving company or you plan to pack your belongings in a suitcase to take with you on your flight, it’s always best to downsize. Go through your belongings of what you plan to keep and what you’re okay getting rid of. If you’re only planning to be gone for a year, then it’s best to mostly just bring clothes or things you’ll need for survival. However, if you think you’ll be gone indefinitely, or at least a few years, it’s best to thoroughly go through what you have.
It might be a good idea to pack up some of your valuable and or sentimental stuff and ask a good friend or family member to take care of them for you. It’s absolutely heartbreaking to go back to find that people have thrown your stuff about if you allow them to go and take an item or two. Trust me, I know as that actually happened to me!
The more items you’re able to part with, the easier it’s going to be. Plus, this means that you can even make some money by selling some of your old stuff. So it’s a win-win. Just like with regular moving, the less you have, the cheaper and easier it’s going to be.
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