Moving abroad without savings sounds like a stretch, but people manage it every year. If you plan well, living overseas can start with nearly zero dollars. These 10 practical tips offer real strategies to help you start anew outside the U.S. with little to nothing in your bank account.
Sell Everything You Don’t Love Or Use
Forget storage units. People fund their first plane ticket by getting ruthless with their stuff. Go through closets, basements, and junk drawers. Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace can turn clutter into cash. In fact, electronics and furniture usually bring the most money. So, if it doesn’t spark joy or survival, it’s sale-worthy.
Stick To What Fits In A Suitcase
Think military-style packing: useful and lightweight. Every extra bag costs money, plus your back will also thank you later. Choose versatile clothing and reliable shoes. If you can carry your life on your back, it makes cheap transportation easier and your arrival smoother.
Get Paid Online Before You Leave
You don’t have to wait until you’ve left the country. Grab a few gigs on sites like Rev or Appen—write, tutor, or just test apps. Even paid surveys help. It’s low pressure, and that extra cash builds quicker than you think.
Research Countries With Lower Costs
Places like Vietnam, Albania, or Mexico offer low daily expenses and easy visa options. According to Numbeo, your rent in Hanoi might be 80% less than in Chicago. Also, prioritize safety, visa requirements, and job potential. You’re not looking for glamour; you’re looking for sustainability while getting on your feet.
Make A Specific Plan With A Timeline
Don’t leave it to chance. Pick a destination, figure out your dates, and map out how long you’ll be there. Think through what needs to happen before you leave and what you’ll do when you land. A clear plan helps keep things moving.
Apply For Jobs That Include Housing
Hostels, cruise ships, resorts, and farms often offer free housing in exchange for work. Try Worldpackers or hotel job listings. Some might even throw in meals. These gigs can cover your biggest expense, like rent, while you figure out your long-term options in a new country.
Don’t Avoid Odd Jobs
Websites like Couchsurfing or Facebook expat groups let you talk to real people in real-time. Be honest about your situation and ask if anyone needs help with domestic work, like cooking or cleaning, in exchange for a place to stay. Some people are surprisingly generous, especially toward polite, motivated travelers.
Build A Daily Budget And Stick To It
Moving abroad is thrilling, but your money will vanish fast if you treat it like a vacation. Research the cost of living where you’re going, from groceries to buses. Set a daily limit and use budgeting apps to keep track. A little planning keeps your freedom intact.
Let People Help You
You don’t need to do everything solo. Reach out to friends or acquaintances who’ve lived abroad. Ask dumb questions. Borrow luggage. Accept meals. Plenty of travelers start out broke but make it because people step in with advice and encouragement. Pride has no place in a foreign land.
Use Library And Community Resources Abroad
Local libraries and centers often provide practical help for newcomers. You might find a bulletin board with job listings or a staff member who knows where to look. Even free computer access can be a lifeline when you’re just getting started.
