Relocating to a new country is often stressful and challenging, but with the right preparation it does not have to be. 

There are many ways you can prepare yourself for a move abroad, but as someone who has done it, I have some tips that could help you to keep calm and enjoy yourself. 

Research Everything You Will Need

Depending on where the country you move to you and your family may need to obtain visas, vaccinations, or other documentation. Visit the website of the country you are moving to and check what you will need, then make sure you have it ready so that you are completely prepared before you even start the process of moving abroad. It is more than important to have all the documents prepared and ready, including the visa, your passport, and other documents. Depending on the country, you may need various types of visas. For example, if you are moving to Canada you need to know whether you should apply for a working visa, a student visa, or a spousal immigration visa to Canada (visa d’immigration pour les conjoints au Canada). So, doing detailed research is the first step you should take.

Keep Everything Important Together

Once you have all the paperwork you need, it is important that you keep it safe so it does not get lost during your move, and so that you can easily access anything you need. Get a document walle to keep everything safe and accessible so that you are not stressed out and have everything to hand throughout your move. 

Use Lists To Stay Organized 

There is a lot to sort out when you are moving your entire life abroad, so it is important that you know exactly what you have to do and keep track of the moving process. Lists are a great way to stay on track and manage your time profitably, so that you do not get too harassed, even when you have a lot to do. If you are prone to losing bits of paper, then use an app on your phone or an online list to keep track and make sure you don’t forget anything. 

Find Somewhere To Stay

House hunting is never easy and it is even harder when you are moving to a foreign country. If you are buying a house in the country you are moving to then make sure that you take the time to understand what you will need and the house buying process, so that you do not make a costly mistake. For renters it is important that you take the time to find the property that suits your needs and has a supportive landlord, so that you will enjoy your time in your new home without the added stress of dealing with a difficult property owner. 

Work With A Professional Moving Company

Packing and moving all of your belongings and furniture is a big task, particularly if you have a family and lots of items to take with you to your new home. To help you, hire a professional firm who can provide you with a complete service and make the process of moving your possessions as smooth as possible. One example can be seen through Phillips International Moving Company who are international movers with ample experience in moving people to the US, UK, Europe, and beyond. They are affiliated with United Van Lines and can provide whatever packing and shipping options you require. 

Keep Everyone Occupied

Moving home can be hard on kids, pets and those who are not completely immersed in the process, so give everyone a task to do, no matter how simple. For little ones it could be putting toys into boxes or selecting items to take and those that are to be gotten rid of prior to your move. Pets should be given a toy to distract them, so that they do not get under your feet while you are busy. By keeping everyone busy you can carry on with the process of getting everything ready for your move safe in the knowledge that they are happy and won’t make mischief when you are not looking.  

Learn The Lingo

Moving abroad is even more stressful if you do not understand what people are saying to you, so before you go you should try to learn a few basic phrases that will help you to make the process easier. There are certain words and phrases that will help you to get what you want and make the process of settling in less stressful and daunting. 

Make The Journey As Smooth As Possible

When you’ve done all this hard work, the journey to your new home country should be the least of your worries, but any overseas trip can be tough, particularly with a family in tow. A few simple preparations and changes could make your trip a lot easier, so take the time before your flight to make sure everyone is comfortable and happy so that you start your new life in a new country on a positive note. 

Stay Calm

In any home relocation there will be challenges and last-minute changes, so it is important that you stay calm and try not to stress too much throughout the process. Take care of yourself and be sure that you get enough sleep, drink enough water, and eat nourishing foods, so that you are as prepared as possible for whatever life throws at you during your move to a new country.

Follow these tips to enjoy a pleasant experience that will allow you to settle into your new home and enjoy the experience of finding out more about the culture you will be immersed in over the coming months. 

Andi Perullo de Ledesma

I am Andi Perullo de Ledesma, a Chinese Medicine Doctor and Travel Photojournalist in Charlotte, NC. I am also wife to Lucas and mother to Joaquín. Follow us as we explore life and the world one beautiful adventure at a time.

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