Overcoming Common Issues Faced By Expats

Whatever your reason may be for wanting to move abroad, getting to do so can be an undeniably exciting experience and there are so many amazing things that can come out of moving away from home. However, that being said, an international move isn’t something that should be taken lightly and this is a huge step to make. 

Leaving your comfort zone and starting a life in a completely new location can come with some challenges and many expats face the same issues when relocating. To help anyone who is embarking on an overseas move, we have looked into some of the most frequently experienced problems below. Knowing how to overcome these before you make your big move can not only help you to prepare yourself, but it can also allow you to fully embrace the exciting new adventure that lies ahead. 

The language barrier 

As you may expect, for many expats, not being fluent in the local language is one of the biggest issues they have to face. Unsurprisingly, everything about expat life will be made so much harder by not being able to understand the people around you. 

Ideally, you should make it one of your main priorities to learn the language when you’re planning on relocating. Whilst you will likely have lots of other things to be doing, you will definitely thank yourself for taking the time to focus on being able to communicate with the locals. There are so many different ways you can learn a language nowadays too, from apps to classes, it is easy to find a learning tool that works well for you. 

Building a social life 

Meeting people socially and forming friendships when you move abroad can be very difficult. However, there are so many benefits to having a supportive friendship group and a social life, so this is something that is always worth persevering with, even when it seems impossible. 

Making friends doesn’t need to be as hard as it may seem and it is important to remember that there are probably other people in the same position as you. In fact, lots of expats will connect with each other online before moving to a new country so when they arrive, they already have someone they consider a friend nearby. Befriending other expats is a brilliant place to start and it can give you the confidence to meet new people together. 

Missing your home comforts 

The vast majority of expats say that this is something that they struggle with the most when relocating and unfortunately, missing your family, friends and home comforts is to be expected. This is likely to be an issue that you’re continually having to overcome.

Thankfully, it is easier than ever before to catch up with people, even if they are on the opposite side of the world and making a conscious effort to keep in touch with family and friends can really help. As far as home comforts are concerned, finding ways to turn your new house into a home is important. Try to fill the rooms with your favourite things from home and stocking the kitchen with some of your favourite British foods and drinks can really help too. 

The new cost of living 

Handling your finances in the UK can be daunting enough, but adding a new country with different rules and regulations into the mix makes things even harder. Getting used to the new cost of living is a common issue for expats and it really can take some time. 

Whilst it can be difficult to know what your finances are going to be like in advance of moving, ensuring that you do as much research as possible will be really helpful. Looking into the average cost of living and the average wage is a great place to start. Remember that it is normal for certain things to cost more in different countries too, so try not to resent your new home if the cost of living is significantly higher than what you’re used to. 

Ordering from a British online store

Hopefully, the information above will be beneficial if you’re planning an international move. It is fair to say that whilst these issues faced by expats may be common, everyone’s experience is different and you may find that you don’t have to overcome any of these. Of course, it is also important to remember that if you do face any of the challenges mentioned above, once you have overcome them, you really can start reaping the many benefits of expat life. 

No matter where your new home may be, if you’re searching for a British online store that can deliver worldwide, be sure to visit the British Essentials website. It is our mission is to provide the best British products to the rest of the world at the most competitive prices, so you can rely on us to supply you with all of the most sought after British brands. Whether you’re wanting to pick up your favourite chocolates, tea bags or washing powders, we can help.