According to the Association of Americans Residents Overseas, 8.7 million nationals already live abroad overseas, and that number continues to grow, especially as Mexico becomes a popular destination for expats. According to Bloomberg, 1.6 million Americans live in this country in 2022.
According to people who have taken the plunge, there are a few things you should think about before you go:
Avoid visiting certain countries at certain times of the year. For example, the monsoon season in Thailand, which lasts from June to August, is extremely hot and humid. Summer in Europe is also not ideal due to the high cost of living.
Do your visa homework. From 30 or 60 day visas to longer term options for those wishing to stay longer than three months, each country operates differently. You will need to complete the appropriate documents. So allow plenty of time for approval and be prepared for a fee. According to Travel Noire, the fee for Australia is the highest at $232. They also refer to the Travisa website, which has a useful tool to find out the exact requirements for each country you want to visit.
Find a smart part-time job. Another foreigner, CNBC, claimed to have found a side job – pet sitting – that pays well and provides accommodation. “It’s one of my favorite ways to travel as I spend time with animals. My only expenses for this month are food, transportation and any extra activities I want to do.
Rent instead of buy. Many expats believe that renting is the best option when moving before making a long-term commitment. This way you can get a better idea of your new country and determine if it is right for you before buying a property. Before signing a lease for an apartment, you should also visit it, because apartments abroad can be very different from those you are used to in the United States.
Stay in one place for a while, a digital nomad told CNBC. He claims that this way you can save money. “Travelling slowly, i.e. spending more time in one place, saves a ton of money because it’s usually the transportation (plane tickets) that drains the bank account.
Be prepared to part with your belongings. According to Travel Noire, international shipping is expensive and can cost upwards of $12,000. It is better to reduce your possessions and live a simpler life, especially if you plan to travel frequently and settle in other countries.
