14 Years of Important Tips For Living Abroad As An Expat

This summary provides tips for moving to another country, drawing on experiences in the Philippines and Vietnam since 2012. The first general rule is to double and triple-check everything, especially for first-time travelers or those on long vacations. Create a physical checklist, as online lists can be less effective. For instance, many people are unaware of the E-Travel website requirement for entering the Philippines, which must be completed within 72 hours of arrival. It's a simple form, but missing it can cause significant issues. Another common oversight is passport validity; a passport must have at least six months of validity remaining to travel internationally. If it expires sooner, you could be denied boarding or entry, leading to major complications. It's recommended to get a new passport if yours is nearing expiration, as US passports are typically valid for ten years. Regarding packing, a common mistake is bringing too much. Even for a permanent move, resist the urge to pack extensively. A week's worth of clothes (e.g., two pairs of cargo shorts, five or six shirts, underwear, socks) and toiletries are generally sufficient. Many items, like a leather satchel, can be ruined by humidity, and electronics may not be compatible with local voltage or can be damaged by power surges. For example, a flat-screen TV brought from home was destroyed by a power surge. Additionally, specific clothing items like Levi pants, once required for immigration, are impractical in hot climates and are no longer necessary. The convenience of laundromats, which wash, dry, and fold clothes within 24 hours for a small fee, makes light packing feasible. When it comes to photography, while a passion for DSLR cameras is understandable, a high-quality smartphone camera is often sufficient for travel. Modern smartphones offer excellent resolution and features, making them convenient for capturing spontaneous moments without the bulk of a separate camera and lenses. Unless professional-level photography is your primary goal, relying on your smartphone simplifies travel and ensures you always have a camera readily available. Regarding footwear, while many locals wear sandals or flip-flops, it's advisable to switch to sturdy, closed-toe shoes for protection. Uneven sidewalks, potholes, and other hazards can lead to injuries. For instance, an incident involving a nearly broken toenail prompted a switch to durable shoes like Merrills. This also applies to riding motorbikes, where flip-flops offer no protection in case of an accident. Financial preparedness is crucial before moving abroad. It's essential to have three to five different ways to access money overseas. This means having at least two bank accounts in your home country, each with its own debit card, and two to three credit cards. Many people make the mistake of relying on a single debit card, which can be lost, stolen, or swallowed by an ATM, leaving them stranded without funds. It's also generally not recommended to set up a local bank account in the Philippines, as it can be difficult for foreigners and complicate access to funds if you need to return home for medical care. Instead, keep your primary accounts in your home country and use services like GCash in the Philippines. GCash is a local mobile wallet that requires a Philippine phone number and an ACR card. Once set up, it allows you to use online remittance companies like Remitly, WorldRemit, and Wise.com to transfer money from your home bank account to your GCash card. This creates a buffer between your main bank account and local transactions. By funding your GCash card with only the amount needed for immediate expenses (e.g., $300 for groceries), you limit potential losses if the card is stolen or compromised. Credit cards also offer better protection against fraudulent charges compared to debit cards, where disputed funds are often gone. Upon arrival in a new country, it's important to be aware of the "honeymoon phase," where everything seems exciting and safe. However, maintain a sense of caution. Do not carry your passport with you at all times. Instead, store it in a secure, hidden location, such as a locked tote bag secured to furniture. For identification, a government-issued photo ID like a driver's license or postal ID is usually sufficient if requested by local authorities. When out in public, use cargo shorts with zippered pockets to secure your wallet and other valuables. While organized pickpocketing is less common in the Philippines than in some Western countries, opportunistic theft is prevalent. Always be vigilant about your belongings, especially phones left on tables or backpacks placed on the floor or behind you in restaurants. Keeping bags close to your body or tucked under your lap can prevent snatch-and-run incidents. Before leaving your home country, ensure you have a reliable way to receive one-time passwords (OTPs) for banking and other accounts, as these often do not work with local phone numbers or VoIP services like Google Voice or Skype. Options include using an eSIM for your home country's network or purchasing a dedicated low-cost phone plan (e.g., Mint Mobile) that provides a physical SIM card and allows you to receive texts while abroad without expensive roaming. This also provides a reliable data connection when traveling back to your home country. Finally, during your first year in a new country, avoid making significant commitments. Do not rush into a relationship or marriage, especially with someone you've only known online. Do not loan money, as it's unlikely to be repaid and can create dangerous situations. Avoid making babies by using contraception consistently. This first year is crucial for learning about the culture, lifestyle, and opportunities available, allowing you to make informed decisions without being tied down by early commitments.