Thinking of moving overseas or abroad, please consider some key things you should do before you leave, such as transport or type of self storage to use. Taking the time to prepare will help you settle in more quickly and easily.
|
Before you move, research your destination to gain an understanding of the local culture, customs and laws. This will make the experience more seamless and rewarding.
1. Start Packing
If you’re planning to move abroad, you’ll need to start packing, placing valuables in storage and organising your belongings. Getting this task done early will reduce stress and ensure you can finish smoothly the rest of your preparations.
Packing and organising can be a daunting task, so it’s helpful to prioritise the process by dividing your belongings into categories. This will make it easier to know what items need to go into each box, and will ensure that you’re able to fit everything in.
Begin by purging any belongings that you don’t use regularly or will not be needed in your new home abroad. This includes clothing, toys for kids, and household appliances.
2. Research Your Destination
Whether you’re planning to travel, go on a gap year or move abroad, it is crucial to research your destination before you leave. It will make your experience better and help you avoid any potential complications when you get there. Booking the wrong hotel could mean trouble for your comfort and your wallet.
There are a few different ways to research your destination. These include using the internet, reading guide books and watching films or vlogs from your destination country.
Choosing the right country to move to can be the most important decision you’ll make. This is because it will determine your finances and the entire experience of moving overseas.
3. Book Your Flights
If you’re planning on flying to your new country, take note to book your flights early. This can save you money and time when it comes to boarding the plane.
If your move will involve multiple international flights, make sure you book them at the best possible price. Off-peak seasons can offer great deals on tickets, and you can even set up flight alerts to get alerted when prices go down.
Also, notify your bank of your move to avoid being cut off from your money. It’s always best to do this at least a couple months in advance so that you have plenty of time to transfer your funds.
4. Hire a Moving Company
Moving companies can help you with packing, loading and transporting your belongings overseas. They are experts at packing and know how to make sure your goods are secure in the boxes they’re in.
You’ll want to choose a reputable international moving company with years of experience and a strong reputation. They should also have good reviews on sites like Facebook, Google and Yelp.
You should get at least three quotes before you hire a moving company. Ask about pricing and add-on services such as vehicle shipping, short- or long-term self storage units and content protection plans.
5. Get Local Health Insurance
Health insurance is one of the most important things to consider when preparing to move overseas. Not only is it required in some countries, but getting sick or injured without insurance can be disastrous financially.
There are several ways to get local health insurance while abroad, and the options vary by country. These include employer-based insurance, private health plans, and international health insurance.
6. Get Ready to Arrive
Once you’ve packed your belongings and have all your essential documents in order, it’s time to start getting ready to arrive at your destination. Research the culture, history and local government to prepare yourself for the transition and minimise any surprises on arrival.
Make a list of all the items you plan to move abroad and take pictures of them for reference. This will help you prioritise what you should bring with you and what can be shipped or donated.
It’s also a fine idea to get your health insurance coverage in place before you leave. This will protect you from unexpected costs if you need to visit the doctor or even a foreign hospital.
Erin is a travel writer and adventure enthusiast who specializes in off-the-beaten-path destinations, cultural experiences, and island-hopping in the Philippines.