Everything is settled: you are moving abroad. Whether it's for studying or to start a new job, that's amazing! What are the next steps now?
Having something to do and plan your move can help you during the first phases of your relocation and especially during the first confusing days.
We have prepared a small cheat sheet for you to help you navigate your first steps:
1. Bring with you only what you need
Traveling with huge luggages can be overwhelming and sometimes moving companies' fees can be quite expensive.Think about it: will you be able to find the same things in the new place? Will it be cheaper or more expensive?
2. Check if you have all the necessary documents and information
Do you have all the paperwork you need? Passports, previous payslips, your pet documents, health insurance…and more?Did you check immigration laws and other important information that may apply to you?
3. Do you have the right plugs?
This aspect can be often overlooked but plugs and power sources may differ greatly from one country to another, causing a few issues here and there. Are your appliances and devices compatible with the plugs in your new home? Or will it be impossible to charge your laptop for the next 48 hours until you get a new adapter?
4. Does your credit card work abroad? Do they prefer cash payments? Where is the nearest bank?
Both as a tourist and as a new resident you will have to make some payments. Some countries prefer cash payments and others are entirely cashless. It's better to check which payment methods are accepted before reaching the cashier. Extra tip: try to save some time to research in advance how the banking system works in your new home and which bank or bank account is the best for you. In some cases you may also find some good digital and multilingual banks.
5. Get a local SIM card and mobile plan
Data and mobile plans can be very costly, especially if you are in roaming mode. Take some time to check where you can find a good prepaid SIM card to start or what's the best offer for you. It will help you save some money along the way. Booking a travel E-SIM could be a good temporary option as well.
6. Bring and stock your favorite food or snack from home
Food is a huge topic dividing millions of people. Some are open to new flavors while others are more conservatives. Some other people have food allergies or dietary restrictions that narrow down their choices or that can make it harder to get what they need in some places around the world. If you really love something and there is no special food store where you can find it, then stock a couple of snacks and food in your new home for those rainy days 🙂 (*Please note that in some cases it's not possible to bring some types of food over to some country. Check the specific country restrictions and regulations on food, health and hygiene before doing that.)
7. Allow yourself to be a tourist for few days
If you have the possibility, try to visit your new place before moving or even a few days before the start of your first day at your new job. Allow yourself to be a tourist for a few days and explore your new neighborhood: where is the nearest supermarket, where can you find bed sheets or other necessities, how does transportation actually work?
Don't forget to also check the main highlights, museums or palaces and snap some pictures of your new memories!
8. Connect with locals or other expats groups
There are a lot of platforms out there that can help you connect with local people or with a wide net of expats also living in the same place as you are. Try to build connections as early as possible: it may be extremely helpful not only to help you settle but also to share some tips and tricks from more experienced people.
9. Keep in touch with family and friends
Rainy days can happen and that's ok. You are getting used to a new place, new habits, new people. Some places are closer to your lifestyle and others are completely opposite. If nostalgia kicks in, make that call or send that text: modern times allow us to connect with people worldwide with a click and we should take advantage of that! 🙂
10. Relax and enjoy the experience. Ask help if needed.
It's close to impossible to have everything figured out. Most of the things you will discover along the way and you have to allow yourself the time to learn. Nobody was born knowing everything!
Just relax and enjoy the experience doing the best you can, always remembering that there is absolutely nothing wrong in asking for help everytime you need it.
You got this!
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