Relocating to a new country is an exciting prospect, but the planning that goes into it can really put you off going ahead. We’re here to tell you that it’s definitely worth the effort!
, a search aggregator that helps expats find mid to long term rentals in 60 cities around the world, knows a thing or two regarding relocation planning. Many of its users are students, professionals and expats of all sorts that have to go through a move abroad: read on to get their tips on how to make the transition as smooth as possible.
If you fully prepare yourself for all the challenges you might face when planning for a relocation and making the move itself, then it’ll make the process way easier, and help to keep your stress levels down!
1. You will have moments of doubt
No matter how excited you are to make the move, you will almost inevitably have moments of doubt while you’re preparing to relocate.
Am I making a huge mistake?
What if I can’t find a job?
What if I never learn the language?
What if I don’t make friends?
Can I cope being away from friends and family?
These doubts are completely normal and will likely pass in no time. Just don’t give in to these feelings and throw away your plans entirely. It’s a good idea to talk them through with a friend, especially if they have experience with relocation. We’re sure you won’t regret it in the end.
2. You will spend a lot of money
It’s not as easy as dropping everything and moving to another country. One thing you’ll really need to prepare before you move is your savings. You’ll need to plan for the flight out there, at least the first month’s rent and deposit for your new home, insurance, money for bills, groceries, and other living expenses.
If you’ve already secured a new job out there, this will take off some of the pressure because you know you’ll start earning after you move. But, if you’re planning on looking for a job once you arrive, then be sure to save up a little extra to provide you with a financial cushion in case it takes you a while to find something.
3. You’ll have to leave things behind
There’ll be a moment of realisation while you’re trying to cram all of your belongings into a large suitcase – I can’t take everything with me. You will have to prioritise what is essential to take with you and what could be left, whether that’s just temporarily while you get settled in, or permanently.
This will then get you onto thinking about everything else you’re leaving behind, especially your friends and family. But, remember, even though you’ll make lots of new friends while you’re away, the important people will remain in your life if you both make the effort to keep in touch.
4. It’s not all glamourous
Despite what the movies suggest, moving to another country won’t all be glamourous. Sure, it’ll be amazing, but you’ll still have to deal with mundane things like applying for residency, paying bills, and opening a bank account. You’ll still have to work, so it won’t be a permanent holiday.
You will still have days, just like at home, when you feel down and miss things about your old life, but you will also have lots of amazing new experiences and a touch of glamour.
5. It will change you
Moving to another city or country will thrust you at full speed out of your comfort zone.
While this may be difficult, it will force you to adapt. This will show you what you’re really
capable of and allow you to achieve things you’d never thought possible. You will change,
but that’s usually for the better!
Now we’ve prepared you mentally for the change, it’s time to get out there and start really
preparing for your big move. Get budgeting, get packing, and get moving!