From Dream to Reality: Five Essentials to Prepare for Your Move Abroad
Written by Clare Kay
Around the world, many people dream of relocating overseas, and some are taking steps to make it happen as they reimagine their lives and contemplate significant changes. There’s been a surge in Americans considering moves abroad, driven by political shifts, lifestyle aspirations, and the pursuit of fresh possibilities. People are re-evaluating where—and how—they want to live.
High-profile figures like Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi, Richard Gere, and Eva Longoria are making headlines with their moves abroad, from England’s Cotswolds to Spain and Mexico. Countries like Ireland and Switzerland are also encouraging this trend with financial incentives: Ireland offers up to $87,000 to renovate homes on scenic coastal islands, while the Swiss village of Albinen pays families to settle there.
From my own experience, it’s often the everyday things we take for granted—like a passport or a phone—that cause the biggest headaches when moving abroad. That’s why, in my latest Moving Countries 101 podcast episode, I dive into five essential areas that form the foundation of a smooth transition. After the excitement of the dream rubs off, reality kicks in—and preparation makes all the difference. These areas are the starting points that are important to consider before the move.
Let’s talk essentials:
- Passports and Visas are non-negotiables. The details matter—they are your first steps to making the dream a reality.
- Driving Licences might not seem critical, but they’re your ticket to freedom once you arrive.
- Travel Insurance and Medical Cover: The unexpected can happen, so make sure you’re covered when you arrive and have a plan for medical insurance in your destination country.
- Your Phone will be your go-to for everything from navigation to staying connected.
- Banking Arrangements: Wherever you are, access to money is essential.
Beyond the practicalities, there are always surprises, so I encourage everyone to keep an emergency fund. It’s a small action that can make a big difference in unforeseen situations.
Moving countries is full of ‘chicken and egg’ moments—like needing a bank account to rent a home but needing a home to open a bank account. In the podcast, I explore each of these essentials in detail, offering practical advice and real-life examples to help you think ahead and plan smarter.
Empowered and Ready Enough
Moving countries is one of life’s big adventures. It’s about opening a door to new possibilities and creating a life that feels true to who you are and where you want to be. Whether it’s your first move or your fifth, this episode is packed with insights to help you feel ready enough. My goal is to prepare you for life beyond the logistics and support you in feeling confident and excited for what lies ahead.
To help you get started, I’ve created an Essential Areas Checklist, available through the Moving Countries 101 podcast show notes. This straightforward guide will help you tick off the basics and spark ideas for what else might be important to your move.
A Thanksgiving Reflection
This week, as many celebrate Thanksgiving, I’ve been reflecting on the power of gratitude. Moving countries is as much about letting go of the familiar as it is about stepping into the new. Gratitude for what we leave behind and anticipation for what’s to come can be a grounding force during this big life change.
Available now on all major podcast platforms.
About Moving Countries 101:
Clare Kay is the host of the Moving Countries 101 podcast. Drawing on her personal and professional experiences, Clare shares practical advice and heartfelt reflections to help others navigate the challenges and opportunities of international living. The podcast features solo episodes from Clare, alongside conversations with guests who bring their unique stories to the table.
Subscribe to Moving Countries 101 for real stories, unique observations, and expert insights about moving countries.
Podcast Links:
You can listen to/watch Moving Countries 101 on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and all major podcast platforms. Follow this week’s podcast here:
Apple
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-countries-101/id1724940782
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/4cxcZ9rbrvZ6A0B6UPMaXj
YouTube
