How I’m Moving Abroad Without Going Broke or Losing My Sh*t (Probably)

I enjoy my life (mostly).

But I can’t ignore the nearly constant nag and pull of packing all this up and escaping away to new experiences elsewhere.

Almost daily, I scour YouTube and Pinterest, researching and planning my getaway.

Plotting my escape in that ever-so-precise way that won’t leave me on some foreign street with a tin cup and a sign, begging for coins.

If you’re anything like me, you’re toying with the idea of packing your bags and starting fresh in a new country.

Maybe you’re scrolling through dreamy Pinterest boards featuring cobblestone streets, turquoise beaches, or bustling markets, thinking, “Why can’t this be my life?”

But then—bam!—reality hits.

Moving abroad?

That sounds expensive.

Well, I’m here to tell you, as a woman over 40 with an adventurous heart and a practical mind, that you absolutely can make your international dreams come true without draining your bank account.

I believe it and will achieve it (Yes, GAWD)!

Whether you’re looking to escape boredom, take on new adventures in midlife, or simply feed your wanderlust, there are creative and doable ways to plan a move abroad while staying financially sane.

In today’s post, I’m spilling all my secrets (and mistakes to avoid) as I plan my own move overseas—budget intact.

Ready?

Let’s get started!

1. Research, Research, Research: The Buffer Against F*ck Around & Find Out

Moving abroad starts with a good ol’ deep dive into spreadsheets, cost comparisons, and Google searches.

As much as I’d like to pack a bag and wing it, knowing what you’re walking—or flying—into is crucial to saving money upfront.

Key Things to Research Before You Move:

– Cost of Living in Potential Destinations:

Websites like Numbeo or Expatistan let you compare living costs, from rent to groceries, so you can pick a destination within your budget.
– Visa and Residency Fees: Every country has its own set of rules and fees for long-term stays. For instance, Mexico offers affordable residency options for retirees and professionals—perfect for folks over 40 who want a fresh start.
– Healthcare Options: Don’t let medical costs catch you off guard. Familiarize yourself with your new home’s healthcare system (hint: many countries offer great healthcare at a fraction of U.S. costs).
– Job or Income Opportunities: If you’re planning to work remotely or start an online hustle, make sure your destination has reliable internet!

Pro Tip: Pinterest and YouTube are gold mines for real-life expat tips. Just search for “[Your Dream Destination] on a Budget,” and voilà—instant inspiration!

2. Declutter and Sell: Ebay Your Way to Freedom

Trust me when I say one of the most freeing parts of embarking on an international move is letting go of all that stuff you no longer need.

Start going through your closets, garage, and storage areas with a critical eye.

Do you even need that bread-making machine you haven’t touched since 2009?

Probably not.

Where to Sell Your Stuff:

– Online Platforms: Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and Craigslist are excellent for larger items like furniture.
– Consignment Shops: Drop off lightly-used clothing, accessories, and household items for consignment sales.
– Garage Sales or Flea Markets: Make it an event! Bonus: this is a great time to reconnect with friends and family while you cash in on your belongings.

The money you earn can go directly into your “Move Abroad” fund—and you’ll thank yourself when you’re packing light for a stress-free relocation.

I’ve already started doing this and I’m actually surprised that I’ve made sales.

Although the sales have been a little slow, my move abroad journey is not one that I’m in a rush to do so, if you have time and patience, this is definitely a good way to make some cash while getting rid of all that stuff.

3. Travel Smart: No Duct Tape Seat Airplane Deals Over Here, Babe

The logistics of getting yourself from one country to another can add up quickly if you’re not careful.

But there are plenty of ways to cut corners on travel costs.

Tips for Budget-Friendly Travel:

– Book Early: Flights become costlier the longer you wait. Start tracking prices on websites like Skyscanner or Google Flights months in advance.
– Be Flexible with Travel Dates: Avoid peak seasons and shoot for weekdays to save big.
– Pack Light: Many airlines charge extra for checked luggage. Challenge yourself to pack only the essentials in one carry-on.
– Look for One-Way Deals: If you’re moving abroad indefinitely, one-way tickets are often cheaper and offer more flexibility.

As they say, “the early bird gets the worm,” or in this case, the deal of the century on airfare.

Recently, I took a trip to Europe and flew British Airways.

I make it a point to fly Business Class for flights over 4 hours because… it’s brutal if I don’t (I just can’t).

Well, a day or so before my flight, they offered upgrades to Business Class for only a few hundred dollars.

SOLD!

I tested this on the way home.

I had already purchased a coach seat on the return flight.

I called the airline and was told by the rep that it would cost a whopping $10,000 dollars to get an upgrade!

This was 10 days prior to my departure date, while I was still in London.

I waited until a couple of days before I was to leave and…

Lo and behold…

There on the site was the upgrade for only a couple hundred dollars!

I flew Business both ways for less than $1000 by just hawk-eyeing their site for the upgrade deals.

The takeaway?

Don’t just settle for what you see that day when your looking for flights.

Check different sites, days, carriers, whatever you need to get the best deal for when you need to travel.

4. Budget Like a Pro: Keep Expenses Lean and Mean

A move abroad without breaking the bank starts with a solid budget plan.

Begin by listing all potential expenses, from visa applications to plane tickets, housing deposits, and beyond.

Then, look for ways to cut costs.

My Favorite Money-Saving Tricks:

– Start a Dedicated Move Abroad Fund: Open a separate savings account just for your relocation expenses. You’ll be blown away by how much more intentional you are when every penny is earmarked for your future.
– Negotiate for Temporary Housing: Before signing long-term leases in your destination, check out short-term stays through Airbnb, hostels, or even Facebook expat groups.
– DIY To Ship Boxes Overseas (When Possible): Compare shipping services and handle your packing yourself instead of paying for professional movers.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to account for surprises, like needing extra documents—because bureaucracy tends to be a little spicy like that.

5. Get That Online Money Before You Go

One of the perks of modern technology?

You don’t necessarily need a “desk job” or a local gig to afford life abroad.

If you’re not planning to rely on savings alone, consider starting your online earning hustle before you even touch down in your new home.

Online Income Ideas for Women Over 40:

– Freelancing: Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork let you monetize skills like graphic design, editing, or virtual assistance.
– Teaching English: Websites like VIPKid make it easy to teach English online, often with flexible hours that accommodate your move planning.
– Selling Digital Products: Got expertise to share? Create downloadable guides, eBooks, or online courses to sell on platforms like Gumroad or Etsy.

Building an online income stream beforehand not only prepares you financially but also allows you to hit the ground running once you’re abroad.

This may be easier said than done.

Especially if you’re not coming from an entrepreneurial background (like myself).

It may take you awhile to figure out what interests you enough that you can also turn into a stream of income online.

Take the time you have now to figure this out.

Do not move abroad and decide that is the time to figure out how you are going to make money!

It has literally taken me YEARS of trying and learning about different things before deciding on settling abroad.

And I still haven’t made the move.

As much as I want to pack my sh*t tomorrow and leave, I understand that if the money doesn’t flow, I’ll be in really bad shape.

And you will be too.

Consider this time part of your research and expose yourself to different ideas on making money online and learn everything you can.

Once you have decided what works for you, give yourself at least 6-12 months of STEADY income in that online endeavor before moving.

You will be so thankful that you did.

6. Get the Right Insurance and Financial Tools

You wouldn’t skip travel insurance for a quick vacation—so why overlook it for something as major as a move abroad?

The right insurance and financial tools prevent unexpected expenses from derailing your plans.

Top Money and Insurance Tips:

– Use Borderless Bank Accounts: Consider a global bank account, like those offered by Wise or Revolut, to minimize currency exchange fees and simplify international transactions.
– Invest in Expat Insurance: Companies like Cigna or Allianz Global Assistance offer tailored healthcare plans for expats.
– Look Into Local Banks Upon Arrival: Save on ATM fees by transitioning to a local bank or credit union in your new home.

You’ll feel so much more at ease knowing you’re financially prepared for the what-ifs.

I opened a Charles Schwab account because they reimburse for overseas transactions at the ATM.

They are also a great option if you want to have the best of both domestic (US) and foreign banking capabilities.

They don’t charge overdraft fees, monthly service transaction fees or foreign exchange transaction fees for purchases made with my debit card.

I love that for me.

Wrapping It All Up (Like a Tasty Burrito)

Planning a move abroad doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your financial security or living paycheck-to-paycheck.

With a little research, budgeting savvy, and a sprinkle of creativity, it’s entirely possible to make your dreams of overseas living a reality—without breaking the bank.

From paring down your possessions to starting an online hustle, every step you take toward this adventure will not only save you money but also prepare you for a fulfilling and exciting new chapter abroad.

So, what’s stopping you?

Are you ready to pack your dreams (and a carry-on) and hit the road without crushing your bank account?

Trust me, if I can do it, you can too!

Let’s chat in the comments: Where are you dreaming of moving, and what’s the #1 thing you’re doing to plan your big peace-out?

Let’s swap tips and inspire each other!

Happy planning—and see you on the road (or the beach, or that charming European café)!

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