The travel bug is impossible to ignore. Maybe a weekend getaway simply isn’t cutting it, and you’re dreaming about that one-way ticket!
Moving to a new country can quickly become overwhelming. But, if you’re intentional and prepared, it can be the best decision you’ll ever make!
One thing to keep in mind: at the end of the day you won’t be able to escape the need to do your own research, and a lot of it. Every country has different processes and requirements when it comes to work visas, insurance, what documents you’ll need, travel insurance, and much more.
I’ve included here some tips that I think are really universal, but this is not meant to be a complete check list. trust me, you’ll have to get comfortable with the idea of doing more than 5 things to be prepared.
This article is going to help point you in the right direction so that your move is as stress-free and exciting as possible!
Wardrobe:
Depending on where you’re off to, you’ll want to consider taking a look at your wardrobe. If you live somewhere temperate, but you’re moving to a tropical island you’ll want to think about what to do with all your sweaters, coats, boots etc. If you’re moving somewhere cold from somewhere that never sees snow, you’ll have to consider packing away your shorts and tanks or getting rid of them altogether.
You can always donate the clothes you won’t be needing anymore, or even better you can find a second hand store that will pay you for all the clothes you’ll no longer need!
If you’re like me, there are several items you couldn’t possibly part with forever. It’s never a bad idea to research some storage options. If you go this route make sure your clothes are stored safely (no cardboard, no uncovered boxes.) I kept my select few items in a sturdy plastic tote where they’ll be safe and warm until we’re reunited.
Downsizing
As you get closer to your move date you’ll want to be aware of what needs to come with you and what doesn’t. Take this opportunity to do some serious cleaning out. If it’s not worth packing with you, and not worth storing, it should go. The sooner the better.
Try to be pretty picky with what you keep. No matter how picky you think you’re being, you’ll probably end up cramming the last few things you want to bring along in your bags at the last minute.
It’s never too early to start this process. I promise, you’ll thank yourself later if you start getting these more tedious tasks out of the way months in advance if you can.
Red tape
This is the least exciting but arguably the most important step of all.
Every country is different in how it handles immigration. Make sure to do as much research and consulting as you possibly can and have a good timeline set up so that you can be sure you don’t miss any steps.
If you’re not a natural double and triple checker, now is the time where you’ll want to force yourself to put on that hat.
No matter how much you prepare, there will still most likely be hiccups so be ready to ride the wave and experience setbacks.
Manage expectations
Moving to a new country is exciting and enriching, but don’t be disappointed or frustrated with yourself if you don’t feel endearing emotions in the first months. Culture shock is real – even in a country with similarities to the one you’re moving from.
A fresh environment and perspective is nice, but not a magic potion. You’re still the same person with the same problems, just in a different location. Be patient and gracious with the process and allow the lessons to come in their own time.
Connections, friendships and adventures will all come with patience.
Plan a goodbye party
A lot changes when you pick up your life and move somewhere unfamiliar. Goodbyes aren’t always fun, but you will appreciate those last memories with your friends and family and for me, they were a huge help in easing the culture shock and stress of moving.
Think intimate, unstructured and flexible. You’ll want to be able to have plenty of conversations and swapping of memories without games or distractions getting in the way. We had a backyard barbeque and bonfire the night before our departure.
Some other good ideas could be a cocktail party, charcuterie party, or you could even rent out an air bnb and turn your goodbye party into a goodbye weekend.
Pro tip: despite all our efforts, we had a ton of leftover food when it was time for us to leave. We solved this problem by bringing all the food in bins to our goodbye party and letting our friends “grocery shop” from our leftovers. The rest was donated.
Remember to take LOTS of pictures!