Moving abroad can be one of life’s most exciting yet challenging experiences. The process goes more smoothly if certain things are arranged in advance, like securing an address through a real estate broker, planning finances, and getting healthcare sorted. These elements can streamline the immigration process and make settling in easier. However, even with careful planning, there are still essential items best bought after you’ve arrived in your new country. Here’s a guide to help you decide what’s better to buy once you’re there and what makes sense to bring along.
Buying a Vehicle
If you’re moving to a country where a car is essential, it’s usually more practical to buy a vehicle locally than to bring your own. First, the cost of shipping a car internationally is high, and importing a foreign vehicle often comes with added taxes and paperwork. Budget-friendly 2nd hand cars are generally easy to find, more affordable than new ones, and can be readily adjusted to local driving conditions and regulations.
In countries where people drive on the opposite side of the road, buying a car designed for that traffic flow makes driving safer and simpler. Right-hand drive or left-hand drive configurations vary by country, and while you can modify your car to match the local setup, it’s generally more straightforward to purchase a vehicle that’s already tailored to the local requirements.
Buying Furniture
The decision to bring furniture from home can be a costly one, particularly if you’re moving long-distance. International furniture transport is expensive and comes with its own risks, such as damage during shipping. Furthermore, even if your furniture arrives intact, there’s no guarantee it will suit your new living space. For example, British homes have some of the smallest floor space in Europe, so large American-style sofas or wide dining tables may not fit comfortably. Instead, buying furniture locally can save money and ensure your pieces fit the space available.
In addition to size constraints, you’ll find that some furniture might be unnecessary or redundant in your new home. For instance, if you’re moving to a furnished property, transporting beds, sofas, or dining tables might be entirely redundant. By buying furniture after arriving, you can assess what you truly need and pick items that suit your lifestyle and space.
Buying Clothes
When it comes to clothing, bringing your own wardrobe to wear what you like and want generally makes sense, but you may need to adapt to the local climate. If you’re moving from a warm climate to a cold one or vice versa, it’s practical to buy climate-specific clothes after your move. Winter coats, boots, and thermal clothing for colder areas, for instance, can be difficult to find in warm countries and are often more expensive to buy online and ship. Local shops will have clothing designed for the climate, and you’ll avoid the hassle of guessing what you might need in advance.
Beyond practicality, buying clothing in your new country gives you access to items specifically suited to local conditions. You’re more likely to find good quality items at a lower cost, as they’re not imported or subject to international shipping fees. This approach also allows you to dress in line with the local style, helping you blend in with the culture around you.
Buying Appliances
Bringing appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, or even small kitchen gadgets can be impractical for several reasons. Different countries have varying electrical systems, which can make using foreign appliances unsafe or impossible. Voltage differences can damage appliances not designed for the local grid, and converters are often not reliable for large appliances.
Buying appliances after you’ve arrived is simpler and safer. Local products are guaranteed to be compatible with the country’s electrical standards, reducing the risk of malfunctions or safety hazards. This approach also allows you to purchase appliances that come with local warranty coverage, making any future repairs easier. The only exception here is smaller electronics like laptops or mobile devices, which tend to be compatible across regions, especially if they use universal power adapters.
Adjusting Mobile and Internet Services
In the digital age, staying connected is essential, and while you may be tempted to hold onto your current mobile plan or internet provider, most international plans are costly and may limit your data usage abroad. Switching to a local mobile provider and selecting a local internet service plan will save you a lot on roaming fees and provide better service. Local telecom companies often offer competitive deals, and some even offer bundles that include home internet, mobile plans, and streaming services.
Getting these services locally also ensures that you’re covered by local customer service if any issues arise. This approach is particularly valuable if you’re in a country where data access or call tariffs differ widely from what you’re used to. It’s best to explore local service plans upon arrival rather than dealing with unexpected costs on a roaming plan.
Buying Home Essentials and Kitchenware
While it may seem like a good idea to bring along your pots, pans, and favourite kitchen items, moving these essentials can often cost more than buying new ones locally. Differences in standard kitchen sizes and layouts might make it hard to store everything you bring from home, and many kitchens come equipped with standard items that you don’t need to duplicate. Picking up basics like cutlery, cooking utensils, and dishware locally can save on transport costs and allow you to choose items that fit your new lifestyle.
Plus, certain items, like kettles and toasters, are often designed for specific voltage ratings. Buying them locally ensures that your appliances will work safely and save you the trouble of finding replacements or adaptors. Shopping for these essentials once you’re there also gives you the flexibility to choose items that match your new surroundings and adapt to local cooking customs.
Moving abroad requires careful planning, but knowing what’s better to bring with you and what to buy after arrival can make a big difference. By purchasing a vehicle, furniture, seasonal clothing, appliances, and home essentials locally, you can avoid unnecessary costs and challenges. Additionally, setting up services like mobile and banking once you’re there will streamline your day-to-day life. Planning your essentials carefully means you’ll feel more settled and spend less time managing practical hurdles, leaving you free to enjoy the experience of living in a new country.
Collaborative post
