Travelling for a first timer may be dangerous. Here are 10 Mistakes First-Time Travelers Make When Moving Abroad, and how to avoid them.
One of the most thrilling decisions you will ever make is to move overseas for the first time. Anyone would pack their bags at the prospect of waking up in a new culture, experiencing new streets, and beginning anew. However, it’s not all bucket-list moments and Instagram-worthy views, let’s face it. A learning curve exists. a steep one.
I am aware of this since, when I initially moved overseas, I committed nearly all of the errors on this list. I believed I had everything worked out. I didn’t. I had to stumble, adapt, and figure it out as I went along in order to learn this lesson the hard way. Therefore, take note of my mistakes if you intend to relocate overseas in the near future.
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Here are ten common relocation errors made by first-time visitors, along with tips on how to avoid them.
10 Mistakes First-Time Travelers Make When Moving Abroad
The cost of living is underestimated.
You look up the average rent on Google, find a few affordable apartments, and decide, “I’ve got this.” However, what is the reality? The expense of real life is higher than what you see on the internet. When you add in utilities, groceries, internet, transportation, and the occasional indulgence, your budget can quickly spiral out of control.
Avoid it: Look for online expat organizations and ask members what they really spend each month before relocating. Create a spreadsheet. Add wiggle room for unforeseen costs. Examine local prices instead of relying on those of tourists.
Lack of a backup fund
For the first month after moving overseas, I had very little money. I assumed I would start freelancing or find a job fast. It didn’t go as quickly as I had hoped.
Steer clear of it: Prior to moving, save at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses. Knowing that you can manage unforeseen crises, hold-ups, or employment pauses will help you sleep better.
Overstaying and Ignoring Visa Requirements
This one is significant. Every nation has its unique rules regarding visas. Because I didn’t read the fine print, I once overstayed a nation by two days and had to pay a fee at the airport. It might have been worse.
Steer clear of it: Always check the rules regarding extensions, stay restrictions, and visa requirements. Keep both digital and hard copies of your documentation, apply as soon as possible, and confirm the dates of expiration.
Packing Too Much
I understand. Your life is something you wish to bring with you. However, reality sets in as you’re lugging two heavy baggage up a small staircase in a new nation.
Don’t overpack. Limit your purchases to necessities and difficult-to-find local items. After you settle, you can always purchase what you require. You won’t wear half of the clothes you bring, I promise.
Ignoring Health Insurance
Traveling may make you feel invincible, but accidents do happen, such as food sickness or a severe tumble. A foreign hospital bill can wipe all your money if you don’t have insurance.
Steer clear of it: Obtain health insurance for foreign countries. Look for plans that cover prescription drugs, checkups, and emergencies. Yes, it’s dull, but when necessary, it can save lives.
Not Acquiring Basic Phrases in the Local Language
I didn’t know how to pronounce “water” or “bathroom” when I first got to Spain. Everything turned into a challenge. Although the locals were courteous, I felt powerless because of the language barrier.
Steer clear of it: Before you get there, learn how to say hello, get directions, order food, and ask for assistance. Although fluency is not required, a little effort goes a long way, particularly in nations where English is not the primary language.
Believing It Will Always Feel Like a Vacation
The initial weeks are exciting. But after a while, reality hits. You are now a local and no longer a visitor. You’ll have to cope with loneliness, cultural exhaustion, and running errands.
Steer clear of it: Mentally get ready for the highs and lows. Your existence overseas will become routine. It’s how you get used to your new home and settle in, so it’s not a bad thing.
Excessive Confidence in Employment Prospects
I thought having a strong resume would make finding a job easy. However, I soon discovered that there were occasions when being a foreigner meant more red tape, more requirements, and fewer options.
Steer clear of it: Before you relocate, look into your job options. Are you able to work with your visa? Are people looking for your skills? Have a job lined up or a well-defined plan for earning money.
Depending Too Much on Foreign Bubbles
Finding other expats or travelers who speak your language is reassuring. However, you lose out on the language, culture, and genuine relationships if you just remain in those groups.
Steer clear of it: Get away from the expat area. Participate in customs, try local cuisine, and go to local events. At first, it’s frightening, but that’s how genuine cross-cultural interaction occurs.
Evaluating Everything in Relation to Home
I found it most difficult to break this behavior. “Back home, we do it this way,” or “Why can’t they just,” were some of the things I kept saying. I was more irritated than anything else.
Steer clear of it: Instead of comparing, observe. Accept the distinctions. Make an effort to comprehend the “why” behind regional traditions. There’s a reason you moved overseas, right? Allow yourself to fully enjoy it without bringing up your nation of origin in every conversation.
Concluding Remarks
One of the greatest life-changing experiences you can have is moving overseas. It pushes you, makes you humble, and teaches you things that no job or classroom could ever teach you. However, it’s not always easy. It includes bumps in the road, unexpected turns, and awkward situations.
The good news? Every error teaches us something. Eventually, every awkward encounter, missing train, and cultural miscommunication turns into a humorous narrative. However, don’t enter it naively. Get ready, do your homework, and take advice from others who have been there before you. I’ve changed since I got on my first one-way flight.
I wouldn’t want to be, either. I was shaped in unexpected ways by the difficulties, the victories, and the calm times in between. Take that jump if you’re on the verge of doing so. Just be careful.
