You Can Leave Tomorrow: How to Move Abroad with Less Than $2000

Relocating abroad doesn’t have to be a fantasy reserved for the wealthy or those with unlimited resources. It’s possible to leave tomorrow with less than $2000 in your pocket if you approach your move strategically, budget wisely, and tap into creative ways of stretching your funds. This comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to make your dream of living abroad a reality, even with a tight budget.

Start with a Clear Budget

Before packing your bags, it’s crucial to set a realistic budget for your move. Although you may only have $2000 (or even less), creating a budget that prioritizes your immediate needs can help you stretch your funds. Here's how to break down your budget:

• Flight: Allocate around 25-30% of your total funds for your one-way ticket. The key to finding a cheap flight is to book well in advance, be flexible with your dates, and search for deals on budget airlines.

• Housing: Save about 40-50% of your budget for housing. Whether it’s temporary accommodations or a longer-term rental, there are affordable housing options available.

• Living Costs: The remaining 20-25% should be earmarked for your day-to-day expenses, like food, transport, and any other immediate needs you’ll have upon arrival.

Find a Budget-Friendly Flight

The first step to relocating abroad is finding an affordable flight, and this will often take a little research and flexibility. Here’s how to find cheap flights:

• Use Flight Search Engines: Websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Momondo allow you to compare prices across multiple airlines. Set up alerts for your destination and be flexible with your departure date.

• Choose Budget Airlines: Many budget carriers like Ryanair, EasyJet, Norwegian Air, and Spirit Airlines offer incredibly low fares to international destinations, often starting at under $200.

• Fly During Off-Peak Seasons: Flying during less popular times, like mid-week or during the shoulder season (late spring or early fall), can significantly cut your flight costs.

• Check Nearby Airports: Sometimes flying into an alternative airport near your destination can save a lot of money. Check if there’s a smaller airport nearby that offers cheaper fares.

Cutting Costs on Housing: Stay with Locals or Find Affordable Accommodation

Once you arrive at your destination, finding affordable housing will be your next priority. Here are several options to consider:

House-Sitting

House-sitting is an excellent way to live abroad for free. As a house-sitter, you’ll take care of someone's home (and often pets) while they’re away. In exchange, you get to live rent-free. Platforms like TrustedHousesitters, HouseCarers, and MindMyHouse connect homeowners with house-sitters.

• How it Works: Sign up for a house-sitting platform, create a profile highlighting your reliability, experience, and ability to care for pets or homes, and apply for house-sitting opportunities.

• Why it’s Perfect for Budget Travelers: House-sitting covers your rent, and you’ll be able to live in areas that might otherwise be too expensive.

Hostels or Dorm-Style Rooms

Many hostels around the world offer long-term stays for budget travelers. Hostels can be a great way to meet new people, and most offer shared dorm rooms with basic amenities. If you're traveling to a city with a bustling tourist scene, you’ll likely find several hostels offering low rates.

• Use Hostel Booking Websites: Websites like Hostelworld and Booking.com allow you to search for hostels by location, price, and reviews. Some hostels offer weekly or monthly discounts if you plan to stay longer.

Shared Apartments or Co-Living Spaces

Co-living spaces are becoming increasingly popular, especially in major cities. These spaces provide shared accommodation with other like-minded individuals, and they often include utilities and Wi-Fi in the price. Websites like Roomster and Spotahome help you find affordable room rentals in shared apartments.

• Why Co-Living Works for Budget Travelers: It offers more privacy than a hostel but still remains affordable, especially if utilities are included.

How to Plan a Budget That Stretches

Making the most of your limited funds is all about being strategic. Here are a few ways to maximize your budget:

Sell Unused Items

Before you leave, sell items you no longer need. This will not only help you declutter, but it can also give you some extra cash to fund your move. Use platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Poshmark to sell clothes, electronics, and furniture.

Cut Unnecessary Expenses

Start reducing your expenses long before you leave. Consider:

• Canceling subscriptions: If you have subscriptions for streaming services, gym memberships, or other recurring costs, cancel them to free up money.

• Minimizing dining out: Save money by cooking at home or eating out less.

• Downsizing your living space: If possible, move into a more affordable living situation to save money leading up to your departure.

Set Up a Relocation Fund

Even a small amount adds up over time. Start saving a fixed amount each week or month toward your relocation fund. If your departure is in the near future, consider making adjustments to your daily spending, like packing lunch instead of buying it, to speed up the process.

Look for Local Jobs or Freelance Opportunities

Once you arrive at your destination, having a way to make money will be crucial. While you may have limited funds, you can start earning right away through various methods:

• Teaching English: In many countries, especially in Asia and Latin America, there’s a high demand for English teachers. Platforms like VIPKid and Teach Away can connect you with remote teaching jobs.

• Freelancing: Websites like Upwork or Fiverr can help you find freelance gigs, ranging from writing and graphic design to marketing and coding.

• Hospitality or Tourism Jobs: Depending on where you're traveling, bars, cafes, and tour companies may be looking for short-term workers, especially in tourist-heavy areas.

Make the Most of Your New Life Abroad

Once you’ve arrived, embrace the adventure and make the most of your new life abroad by being resourceful and mindful of your budget. Use public transportation, shop at local markets for fresh produce, and seek out free activities in your area. Take advantage of local resources, like libraries or community centers, and always be on the lookout for opportunities to save money.

Final Thoughts: Your New Adventure Awaits

Leaving for a new life abroad doesn’t need to be a pipe dream or something that requires thousands of dollars. With a strategic plan, some creativity, and a focus on stretching your resources, you can make your dream of relocating with under $2000 a reality. By finding affordable housing, booking budget-friendly flights, and cutting unnecessary expenses, you’ll be on your way to starting fresh in a new country.