Moving to Europe? Here Are the Things You Need to Get In Order For Your Big Move

Jul 09, 2018

There are many places in Europe that are wonderful to reside in. Think of the cuisine, customs and opportunities - plus warmer weather in some cases! Perhaps you’re moving to sunny Spain, or looking forward to enjoying the French Alps, or getting ready to enjoy the creative city of Berlin, or looking forward to living a cheaper and slower pace of life in a Portuguese or Italian village.

Moving away is exciting because it’s a chance for a fresh start, but when it comes to moving from the UK to Europe (or anywhere else abroad), there’s a lot of planning that’s involved. Whether you’re emigrating to take up a new job, study or establish a new life, moving comes with its challenges and its costs.

Yes, moving costs money and that’s something that can’t be avoided entirely. However, here at Codes.co.uk, we like to focus on saving money as much as possible. Here’s an extensive guide on what to expect when moving to Europe, costs to looks out for and hidden fees that may surprise you when moving.

Before Making Your Move

This goes without saying, but unless you know the country you’re moving to like the back of your own hand, you need to make sure that you’re equipped with the essential knowledge. Learn the language. Do your research - there are plenty of resources and information online. Take note of important customs and public holidays. Know what to look out for in terms of safety and security. Keep up to date with the politics and economics of the country you’re moving too - even if it seems boring. Also, document every single thing you own, in case your things get stolen or lost and make sure you get the relevant travel documents (i.e. visas) sorted.

Moving to another country is daunting because it’s like entering unfamiliar territory, but getting to know the country will give you the advantage of immersing yourself in the culture as quickly as possible. After all, struggling with the language or cultural barriers is no fun at all. If possible, see if you can find a community of expats in the location that you’re moving to and try to connect in advance.

Get Accomodations Sorted and Secure

It’s best to have a place of residence established before you make the move to Europe, but if the move is imminent and you haven’t got a place sorted yet, then don’t panic. You can book yourself into a hostel or an AirBnb so that will give you time to sort out a place to live once you arrive. Plus, you can find referral codes so you can get a discount on your booking.

If you’ve some time to sort out a place to live, then you need to be aware of living costs but you can save money. If you’re moving for a new job, then see if you can negotiate relocation costs in your salary, or see if your new employer will provide housing for you. If not, then consider living in a houseshare, which can save your money on housing and other living costs. You could try living in a house share with fellow expats. In many European cities, renting is very common.

Just to add, if you’re looking to rent (or buy) abroad, then make sure you don’t give money or personal details before going to visit the property, take someone with you and don’t sign any documentation until you’ve been through the appropriate channels. Don’t get ripped off sending money abroad. Also, research average rental and living costs and compare the prices to the properties that you’re interested in. If it’s too good (or cheap) to be true, it probably is.

Keep removal costs low

Without a doubt, moving internationally (or domestically) doesn’t come cheap. However, there are removal companies out there that specialise in services that move your things from the UK to Europe. It’s best to call around these companies to get a quote, then compare. What does each service offer? Are there any hidden charges? Try to haggle. Depending on how you choose to move your stuff, try to see how much for the process you can do on your own - such as packing up boxes - as this can save you money.

Another point to bear in mind is that you might want to sell your stuff and start all over again. You might not need everything and you might not be able to take everything - such as bulky objects. By doing this, you can declutter, reduce the load of things you’re taking with you and you can make a bit of cash! You can sell your stuff via boot fairs and online sites such as eBay.

Consolidate and pay off unwanted bills and debts

To avoid the annoying situation of paying leftover bills once you move away to Europe, notify your utilities provider and make a plan to pay off your bills. Pay down debts. Cancel direct debits and services you don’t need, such as gym membership and media subscriptions. If you start planning on doing this and you start paying off in advance, then you can be free from debts and bills once you make your move.

Establish a security fund

Every working person should have an emergency fund - it’s a necessity. It’s important to have a financial ‘cushion’ to fall back in case anything goes wrong in your move to Europe. You should save up between three to twelve months’ worth of living expenses for your emergency fund.

Sell off your car (if you don’t need it)

Depending on where you live in Europe, you may not need your car. Car ownership requires a lot of cost and maintenance anyway, but a lot of locations in Europe - especially cities - have very good public transport networks that are reliable and affordable, so you may not need to drive. Depending on where you live and where you work or study, you might not need to commute at all - you might just have to take a walk, and some places are pedestrianised anyway. If you don’t need your car, then sell it off.

Find cheap flights

The good thing about travelling to and around Europe is that there are plenty of budget airlines available so travel costs are low are quick too, so on the day you’re moving away, can fly off and arrive at your destination in now time. Search flight comparison sites such as Skyscanner for cheap fares and book in advance.

Don’t forget your pet

If you’re planning on taking your pet with you when you emigrate, then make sure you budget for your four-legged friend and make the right preparations. Get a pet passport and consider taking out a pet insurance policy, which is always a good idea. Look into the process of bringing our furry friend overseas, there might be added steps to take care of such as shots, a quarantine period and extensive paperwork to get your pet across the pond. This might be a tough hurdle for pet owners and a major factor in your decision to move.

Sort out access to your money

Even when you leave the UK, you still want to be able to access your money wherever you are without incurring bank charges. It would help to set up a bank account in at your destination, or you can use services that will allow you to access your money anywhere without the fees. Also, get a no-fee credit card for those bigger emergency purchases, Murphey’s law is in full effect here and anything that can go wrong will go wrong so be prepared without having to pay for it in huge fees and interest charges.

Get insurance

Getting insurance is the one of the best ways to get yourself covered for healthcare, stolen items and natural disasters. Think of it as an investment and shop around for the best quotes and deals. Insurance protects not only you, but everything you own when moving. Find a policy that works for you and your lifestyle. If you aren’t that attached to your possessions don’t drain your bank account on a hefty policy that covers your Ikea furniture but consider insuring your belongings, yourself and perhaps your flight for changes and cancellations.

Set up a communication plan

Obviously, you’ll want to stay in touch with friends and family once you move away to Europe, so make sure that you’ve set up your phone and internet so that you stay connected. There are plenty of phone and internet deals out there so that you can save money and stay in contact.

By taking note of these tips, you can be sure to make your move to Europe as smooth as possible without all the additional and unnecessary stress and fees to contend with.