This is a post about how to move abroad on a small budget.
This post contains affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them at no extra cost to you. Using these links helps support our work, so we truly appreciate it if you choose to do so. Thank you for your support!
Moving abroad might seem like a distant dream for those with limited finances, but it’s more achievable than you think. I know because, many years ago, I was “those with limited finances” and a big dream. From budget-friendly programs to creative work opportunities, there are plenty of ways to turn your international aspirations into reality. Here are some practical and affordable methods to help you move abroad on a small budget while gaining valuable experiences.
Become an Au Pair
One of the most budget-friendly ways to move abroad is by working as an au pair. This cultural exchange program allows you to live with a host family in exchange for childcare and light housework. In return, you get free accommodation, meals, and a weekly stipend. I did it 3 times in different countries and swear by it – it changed my life!
- Countries that Offer Au Pair Programs: Popular destinations include Germany, France, the USA and the Netherlands.
- Benefits: Low living expenses, cultural immersion and the opportunity to improve your language skills.
Check platforms like AuPairWorld or Great Au Pair to find a suitable host family.
If you’re going to the US, agency and visa fees can be a bit costly, but definitely not as much as a study abroad stay! Besides, you’ll be earning a bit of money and won’t have to worry about paying for rent or food.
And if you choose to an au pair in Europe and decide to do it again in another European country, all you’ll need is the price of a train/bus/flight ticket. It can literally cost you £10 to move to another country nearby!
Try Housesitting or Pet Sitting
Housesitting is a fantastic option for travellers on a budget. In exchange for looking after someone’s home (and sometimes pets), you get free accommodation.
- How It Works: Sign up on platforms like TrustedHousesitters or Nomador, create a profile and apply for housesitting gigs in your desired destination. Facebook has house/petsitting groups as well.
- Best Destinations: Countries like the UK, Spain and Australia often have numerous opportunities. I actually saw one in Mexico years ago that I still think about!
- Cost: Minimal – usually just a membership fee to the platform.
Housesitting not only saves you money but also offers a chance to live like a local. I’ve been doing it for a few years now for the same family and I love it! I can’t commit to having a dog at the moment but I get to spend time in a lovely house with the best dogs several times a year.
Work and Travel Programs
Work and travel programs are ideal for those who want to combine working abroad with exploring a new country.
Popular Programs:
- Working Holiday Visas: Available in countries like Australia, New Zealand, Germany, France, Argentina and Canada, these visas let you work short-term jobs while traveling.
- Seasonal Work: Work on farms, in ski resorts or at summer camps.
- Earnings and Expenses: While you’ll need some initial savings for visa fees and travel, these programs often allow you to earn enough to sustain your stay.
Look into organisations like BUNAC for opportunities and visa guidance.
Volunteer Abroad
Volunteering abroad can be a meaningful way to experience a new country while keeping costs low. Many programs offer free or discounted accommodation and meals in exchange for your time.
Types of Volunteering:
- Eco Projects: Help with reforestation or wildlife conservation in places like Costa Rica or South Africa.
- Community Work: Teach English or assist in local development projects in countries like Thailand or Peru.
- Trusted Platforms: Workaway, HelpX, and WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) are excellent resources. You can also look at Worldpackers.
Teach English as a Second Language (ESL)
Teaching English is one of the most lucrative ways to move abroad. Countries like South Korea, Japan, and China offer competitive salaries, free accommodation and flight reimbursements for ESL teachers.
Requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree (in any field) is usually required.
- A TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification is highly recommended. I personally got mine from TEFL.org and I really enjoyed it! It’s self-paced and fully online. Watching the classroom videos reminded me of when I was a student myself and everything I liked about learning English.
They also have a blog, a podcast and a YouTube channel always sharing news, jobs and tips! - Where to Find Jobs: Sites like Teach Away and Dave’s ESL Cafe list teaching opportunities around the world.
Live in Countries with Low Costs of Living
Another way to stretch your budget is by choosing countries with a lower cost of living.
Examples of Affordable Destinations:
- Southeast Asia: Countries like Vietnam, Indonesia and Thailand are popular with expats for their affordable housing and delicious food.
- Eastern Europe: Destinations like Bulgaria, Georgia and Romania offer a blend of culture and affordability.
Moving to these destinations ensures your savings go further while enjoying a high quality of life.
Digital Nomad Programs
If you work remotely, take advantage of digital nomad visas. These programs allow you to legally live and work in another country without needing a traditional job offer.
- Top Digital Nomad Destinations:
- Portugal: The D7 visa is ideal for remote workers with passive or freelance income.
- Croatia: Its digital nomad visa offers a temporary residence for up to a year.
Remote work combined with a lower cost of living overseas makes this an increasingly popular option for moving abroad on a budget. There are obviously repercussions to the local community so please do your research and be respectful.
Apply for Scholarships or Study Abroad Programs
If you’re a student or considering further education, studying abroad can be an affordable way to move overseas. Many countries offer scholarships or low tuition fees for international students.
Top Countries for Affordable Study Abroad:
- Germany: Many universities offer free or low-cost education, even for non-EU students. You’re allowed to work part-time during term time (full-time during the holidays!) and your travel pass is included in the tuition!
- France: their work & study alternance programme is highly sought after!
- Mexico: Affordable tuition and a vibrant expat community.
Check platforms like DAAD in Germany for scholarships and application tips or The Scholarship Hub in the UK.
Leverage Freelance or Remote Work
If you already work in a field that allows remote work, moving abroad on a budget could be as simple as packing your bags.
- Freelance-Friendly Careers: Writers, graphic designers, marketers and software developers often have the flexibility to work from anywhere.
- Popular Countries for Remote Workers: Portugal, Mexico and Bali (Indonesia) are renowned for their digital nomad communities.
Save Before You Go
While these options make moving abroad more affordable, it’s essential to have some savings to cover unexpected costs.
I personally have a separate account with Monzo where I keep my “travel fund”. I love it! I only load my account with the amount of money I want to spend each month and I also have it set up so everything I spend it rounds up. The “change” for that rounding up goes into a different pot that becomes yet another piggy bank!
If you’re in the UK too and want to open a Monzo account AND earn £5, use my link and we both get a fiver 🙌
Now, if you’re NOT in the UK but want to have one of the best and easiest travel cards, I highly recommend WISE (Monzo uses their tech too!). They make it really easy to use the card in any currency and all you have to do is load it up. If you haven’t got yours yet, here’s my link that waives the fee on your first transfer up to £500!
Savings Tips:
- Set a monthly savings goal
- Sell items you no longer need
- Work side gigs to boost your travel fund
Moving abroad on a small budget isn’t just possible – it’s incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re caring for kids as an au pair, teaching English or living as a digital nomad. There are countless ways to experience life overseas without breaking the bank. With a little planning and creativity you can turn your dream of living abroad into reality.
