I still remember the night before I left for Singapore—suitcases half-packed, paperwork scattered across my kitchen table, and that knot of excitement mixed with pure terror in my stomach. Three international moves later, I’ve learned that relocating abroad is equal parts thrilling adventure and logistical nightmare.

If you’re planning your first overseas move, pour yourself a drink and let me share what I wish someone had told me.

Start planning ridiculously early. That six-month timeline everyone recommends? Make it eight. Visa applications move at the pace of continental drift, and every country has its own bewildering set of requirements. When I moved to Germany, my visa application required a document that could only be obtained after I arrived, yet I couldn’t legally arrive without the visa. Kafkaesque doesn’t begin to describe it.

The money stuff is brutal. Beyond the obvious expenses, I got blindsided by weird import taxes, astronomical currency conversion fees, and the soul-crushing realization that my credit score meant absolutely nothing overseas. Build a financial cushion that makes you uncomfortable—then double it.

Finding housing from 5,000 miles away feels like online dating, except the stakes involve potentially sleeping on benches. My best advice? Book a short-term rental for your first month. That gorgeous apartment listing might look perfect online but sit directly above a 24-hour karaoke bar.

Packing-wise, be ruthless. I shipped my beloved book collection to Australia only to realize I could have bought everything again for less than the shipping costs. Ask yourself if each item is truly irreplaceable or just comfortingly familiar.

The healthcare maze varies wildly by country. In the UK, I was covered immediately through their NHS. In Japan, I needed private insurance for my first three months before qualifying for their national system. Get international coverage that bridges any gaps, and bring detailed medical records—your new doctor won’t know your history.

Banking abroad can be maddening. Many countries won’t let you open accounts until you have local proof of address, which you can’t get without a bank account. HSBC and similar international banks can sometimes help break this cycle. I keep accounts in two countries because transferring money internationally still feels unnecessarily complicated in 2025.

The language barrier hits harder than expected—even in countries where English is common. Learning to order coffee is easy; understanding rental contracts or medical instructions is another story. Language apps are helpful, but taking even basic in-person classes made a world of difference for me.

On arrival day, exhaustion will cloud your judgment. Have your first 24 hours meticulously planned: transportation from the airport, local currency in your wallet, a working phone with maps, and the exact address of your accommodation written down (not just in your phone, which might die).

The isolation can be crushing at first. I’ve spent more nights than I care to admit questioning my decision to move. Finding your people takes time, but it happens. Expat groups, language exchanges, and even just becoming a regular at a local café all helped me build connections.

Moving abroad breaks you open in the best and hardest ways. The challenges make you resourceful; the cultural differences make you question your assumptions. It’s messy and frustrating and absolutely worth it.

Pack light, plan thoroughly, and be patient with yourself. The place will become home faster than you think.