Moving Abroad Alone? Follow These 8 Tips
Moving abroad is a challenging task for anyone, but it’s even more daunting if you plan on doing it alone. Even though it may be one of the most rewarding experiences, it’s certainly difficult to overcome the culture shock.
To make the transition as smooth as possible, it’s important that you make sure to keep yourself safe. While it’s most likely you will face no problems, you’ll be grateful that you came extra prepared.
Interested in learning more? Below we are going to discuss eight tips for those who are moving to a new country alone.
Do your research
Before you even think about leaving for your new home, it’s best to do some research into the culture, customs, and laws of your destination. You want to be aware of any potential threats so that you can prepare for them as much as possible.
It’s also extremely critical that you check out insurance plans and coverage for medical evacuation. Again while it’s likely nothing will happen, it’s always best to be prepared in the event of an emergency, especially if you are traveling alone.
Keep your valuables secure
One of the most important things to do when traveling in a new country is to keep your valuables secure. Local criminals see expats and tourists as vulnerable, so you’ll want to ensure you protect your money and belongings.
Invest in a high-quality backpack or purse that isn’t easy to rip or cut. It’s also a wise idea to store your passport, money, and credit cards in a secure travel pouch.
Be cautious of large, crowded areas, as these are often favored by pickpockets. Any expensive jewelry and electronics should be left at home.
Use transportation with care
Public transport can be a great way to get around cities and helps you save extra cash. However, it’s still essential that you are careful as they can also be dangerous.
Only take licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and never accept rides from strangers. If you are driving your own vehicle, spend time brushing up on the local road rules to prevent any accidents.
Stay connected with friends and family
Let your friends and family back in your home country know where you’re staying and how they can contact you. They can check in on you frequently to ensure that you are settling into your new environment.
You might also consider sharing your location regularly so that they can alert authorities in the event of an emergency. If you’re ever feeling uncomfortable or safe, don’t be afraid to call for help.
Be aware of common scams
Depending on where you are traveling, there can be a lot of scams that are targeted toward new arrivals. Make sure that you’re aware of them so that you know what to avoid.
If you believe you have been scammed, contact the authorities right away. The sooner you get on top of the issue, the better chance you have of finding your belongings.
Join local expat groups
Joining expat groups is a great way to meet new people and also allows you to learn more about your local area. Alongside forming friendships, you’re able to gain insights into the best places to travel and where you should avoid.
You can also take this as an opportunity to build a support system. Having people you can rely on that have also been in a similar position can really come in handy.
Learn the language
Unless you’re already fluent in your new destination’s language, you may find communication rather difficult. Try your best to pick up some basic phrases so that you can seek help if required.
There are many different courses and apps you can try, but in-person classes and language exchange programs are often the most effective. This is because you can get one-on-one feedback rather than reading straight from a textbook.
Trust your instincts
Lastly, remember that your intuition is one of the best tools for staying safe. If something seems off, trust your gut and take the necessary steps to protect yourself.
Avoid walking alone after dark, and be cautious of strangers who seem overly friendly or persistent. If you regularly post on social media, don’t ever mention that you live alone.
You also want to ensure that your house or apartment is secure. Install a security system and lock all of the windows and doors. It might seem like a lot, but you can never be too careful, especially if you aren’t familiar with the neighborhood.
Final words
As you can see from the above, it’s important to keep safety at the forefront of your mind during an international relocation. By following these tips, you can ensure that you will have an enjoyable experience living in your new country.
Good luck!
