Ready to swap the West for the vibrant, affordable East? Southeast Asia awaits—but first, let’s get you prepared. Moving abroad is exciting, but without the right preparation, it can quickly become overwhelming. This essential checklist for moving to Asia covers everything you need to do before stepping on that plane—from visas and banking to housing and healthcare—so you can start your new adventure with confidence.
Packing List for Moving To Asia
I sold everything and left the U.S. in late 2022 to slow travel across Asia, basing myself in Bangkok along the way. Through firsthand experience, I’ve learned what it takes to move abroad smoothly and navigate life in a new country. I write practical travel guides based on my experiences, helping others make informed decisions. Here’s what I recommend doing before making the move.
1. Legal & Immigration
Passport Check
As part of your essential checklist for moving to Asia, your passport should be your first priority. Most Southeast Asian countries require at least six months of validity beyond your planned stay, so check the expiration date now. If it’s within a few years or nearing expiration, renew it early to avoid last-minute stress. When applying or renewing, consider opting for the extended passport book with extra pages—perfect for frequent travelers or those expecting multiple visa stamps while settling in.
Visa Planning
A key item on your moving to Asia checklist is planning your travel strategy. Are you settling in one place or slow traveling across the region? One of the most important things to know before moving to Asia is visa requirements. Research long-term options like tourist, retirement, digital nomad, or work visas based on your destination. While many can be obtained abroad, some require advance preparation—so gather necessary documents like proof of income, passport photos, or health certificates early. If you’re country-hopping, you may avoid visa concerns for now, but always check the latest entry rules to keep your travels stress-free.
Driver’s License
Renew your driver’s license before you go—it’s a small but critical step in your step-by-step guide to moving to Asia. An expired one is a hassle to fix from afar, and it’s useful for ID or renting scooters. This practical tip rounds out the essential checklist for moving to Asia, ensuring you’re ready for day-to-day life.
2. Finances
Banking Setup
A critical step before moving to Asia is setting up your finances for a smooth transition. Open a travel-friendly online bank account with no foreign transaction fees—Charles Schwab offers ATM fee reimbursement worldwide, while a Capital One 360 account taps into fee-free ATM networks in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. I hear many travelers recommending a Wise account but I never used one personally.
Credit Cards
Next, make sure your credit cards don’t have foreign transaction fees—or consider getting one that offers travel perks. A great option is the Capital One duo (Venture or Venture X paired with the Savor card) to maximize points on flights, hotels, and dining, plus enjoy airport lounge access. Another solid choice is the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Reserve, both known for upgraded travel benefits. Don’t forget to notify your bank of your move to prevent account freezes, and set up online banking for easy bill payments and transfers—both essential steps on your moving to Asia checklist.
Digital Payments
If your using an IPhone. Add your cards to Apple Wallet for secure, token-based transactions at stores and restaurants. This is an essential checklist for moving to Asia must-do—protecting your funds with tokenized payments is safer than swiping abroad. It’s a simple step that pays off in peace of mind. This can only be done while in the US.
Mail Management
Redirecting your mail is another practical piece of your step-by-step guide to moving to Asia. Have your mail sent to a relative or use a top-rated service like Anytime Mailbox or Earth Class Mail for digital scans or physical forwarding—both consistently rank high for reliability. While you’re at it, set up incoming payments (pensions, rentals, etc.) to direct deposit into your online accounts. This keeps your cash flow seamless as you settle in.
3. Health & Insurance
Health Prep
Your checklist to Asia isn’t complete without a health check up. Schedule one last visit to your doctor and dentist to ensure everything’s up to date—think of it as a tune-up for your expat adventure. If you’re near a travel clinic, stop by for required or recommended vaccinations (e.g., yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis)—crucial things to know before moving to Asia. Stock up on 3-6 months of prescription meds too, and bring documentation for customs.
Insurance Coverage
Health coverage is a non-negotiable on your essential checklist for moving to Asia. First, check if your current insurance works abroad—most don’t. If not, get international health insurance; options like SafetyWing, Cigna, and GeoBlue are solid picks for expats. For short-term needs (think flight delays or cancellations), consider Faye travel insurance. Want more details? I’ve got a separate blog post with my top 4 expat insurance picks to guide you further.
4. Housing & Living Arrangements
Initial Landing Spot
If you’re planning a long-term stay, set yourself up for success by booking short-term accommodation for your first couple weeks. This allows you time to explore the area and view rentals in person before committing. Airbnb, hotels, and serviced apartments are great options—Agoda is my go-to for the best deals across Southeast Asia. This approach gives you breathing room to settle in before diving into long-term plans. If you’re planning to travel frequently, short-term stays matter less—just pick a hotel near the city center or public transportation for easy access to everything.
Long-Term Planning
Once you arrive, start researching rentals through Facebook groups, real estate websites, or local agents to secure your home base. Rental costs vary, and many landlords require a 2–3 month deposit upfront, so budget accordingly. Most rentals come fully furnished, which simplifies the move. If you’re looking for a long-term condo, visit the property management office (jurisdiction office) to ask if they handle rentals directly or if you’ll need an agent. In many cases, they can show you available units on the spot—helping you bypass the middleman and potentially save money.
Home Country Property
Back home, decide what to do with your current property—keep it, rent it out, or sell it—and act before you go. This decision shapes your move to Asia, freeing you up for the journey ahead. (Note: Your packing list for moving to Asia comes later, but consider bringing property docs if you’re keeping or renting your place.)
5. Technology & Communication
Phone Setup
You’ll need an unlocked phone with a SIM tray to stay connected. Contact your carrier to unlock your phone or consider buying an unlocked GSM phone before you leave. If you’re a T-Mobile customer, some plans include free international data. AT&T users should unlock their phones and check for a SIM tray, while Verizon customers may need a new phone, as Verizon primarily runs on a CDMA network. You can always purchase an iPhone from an Apple Store abroad or a Samsung, OPPO, Vivo, or Redmi from any of the malls across Asia. Alternatively, purchase an eSIM before you leave for instant access upon landing, and pickup a new or used phone later.
Sign up and Activate Google Voice —it’s free for U.S. calls over Wi-Fi and lets you port your number down the line. This is a must on your essential checklist for moving to Asia. The initial setup you need a US based phone number but not required after that.
Digital Tools
Tech prep is key now. Need a new laptop or tablet? Upgrade now in your home country—trading in or selling older gear is easier before you go, even though you can find these abroad. Set up a VPN (like NordVPN) for security and to stream U.S. services (Netflix, banking), and back up files to the cloud (Google Drive, iCloud, Dropbox). Don’t forget to check power adapters—SE Asia uses 220V with Types A, C, or G plugs, so add a universal travel adapter to your packing list for moving to Asia. (South Korea, Indonesia, and Malaysia need travel adapters).
6. Packing
Pack Light
Your essential checklist for moving to Asia includes mastering the art of packing. Limit yourself to 2 bags—Southeast Asia has cheap replacements for nearly everything, so less is more. Skip the winter gear—it’s dead weight in the tropics. 1-2 pairs of pants, 1 hoodie (for travel days), new underwear and socks (U.S. sizes are trickier to find), new sneakers, shorts, and T-shirts. Invest in travel aids like lightweight luggage, packing cubes, and a universal adapter to keep your load manageable and organized—an item
For travelers aiming to pack light and smart, here are a few must-have items that have proven invaluable on my journeys:
- Tablet: Perfect for streaming or browsing online during downtime.
- Small Power Bank: Keeps your phone charged on the go.
- Sling Bag: Compact and handy for essentials, fitting airline size limits.
- Passport Wallet: Keeps documents secure and organized.
- Travel Towel: Quick-drying and space-saving.
- Eye Mask: Blocks light for better rest on flights and overnight trains.
- Travel Adapter: Ensures your devices stay powered anywhere.
- Watch or Sunglasses: A stylish, functional accessory.
- Hat: Lightweight sun protection.
- Lightweight Clothing: Easy to pack and layer within the 7 kg carry-on limit.
These essentials keep you prepared without weighing you down—check out my best travel gear page for more details!
When flying with most airlines in Asia, keep your carry-on light—cabin bags are limited to 7 kg (15 lbs) and must fit within 56cm x 36cm x 23cm (including handles and wheels) to stow in the overhead compartment. You can also bring a smaller personal item, like a laptop bag or backpack, up to 40cm x 30cm x 10cm. Checked bags come with a fee, so packing light saves money and hassle!
Sell or Store
If you’re not keeping a home base, lighten the load further by donating or selling excess belongings—think winter clothes, your car, or anything that you’re bringing. This decluttering step frees you up for the journey ahead, aligning with the minimalist vibe of expat life in Southeast Asia.
7. Tax & Legal Matters
Tax Prep
Taxes might not be glamorous, but they’re a key part of your big move to Asia. If you’re a U.S. citizen, create an online account with the IRS now—trust me, it’s an essential checklist for moving to Asia step to avoid headaches later. Explore the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) if you’ll earn abroad—it could save you big. Also, if you don’t pay taxes quarterly, they’ll hit you with a fee at year-end, so set up that account pronto to stay ahead.
Legal Docs
Paperwork is a quiet hero in your moving to Asia checklist. Bring copies of your passport and birth certificate, and consider setting up a power of attorney or will if you’re leaving affairs behind. I personally scanned all my important documents digitally and store them online—easy access, no bulk. Add these to your packing list for moving to Asia (either physical copies or a note to access them digitally) to keep everything squared away.
8. Final Pre-Departure Tasks
Tie Up Loose Ends
Our guide to moving to Asia wraps up with some housekeeping. Cancel subscriptions (gym, internet, utilities) and memberships to cut ties cleanly. Then, inform family and friends—share emergency contacts and your new address. This is a small but vital piece of your essential checklist for moving to Asia, keeping your support network in the loop.
Flight Booking
Booking your flight is a big moment in your moving to Asia checklist. Go for a flexible or one-way ticket—watch for deals, but prioritize convenience. Things to know before moving to Asia: If you don’t have a long-term visa, most airlines will ask for an exit ticket to prove you won’t overstay your tourist stamp. No visa yet? Buy a cheap, disposable, or refundable outgoing ticket to cancel after entry, or plan a quick hop to another country and back. Either way, it’s a smart workaround to have ready.
Emotional Prep
The final step isn’t about stuff—it’s about you. Say your goodbyes, brace for culture shock, and join expat groups online for support. This emotional prep rounds out your step-by-step guide to moving to Asia, easing you into the adventure ahead.
Conclusion
From visas to your packing list for moving to Asia, this step-by-step guide to moving to Asia has you covered with the essential checklist for moving to Asia to make your leap to Southeast Asia smooth and exciting. Whether it’s sorting finances, securing health coverage, or mastering the things to know before moving to Asia like exit tickets and SIM cards, your moving to Asia checklist is now locked and loaded—leaving you free to embrace the adventure of expat life in a vibrant, affordable region. So, what’s your next move? Drop a comment below with your plans or questions—I’d love to tailor more advice just for you!
How do I choose the best country to move to?
Start by considering factors like cost of living, visa options, healthcare, job opportunities, and lifestyle. Research the culture, climate, and expat communities to see what fits your needs. If possible, visit before committing to get a feel for daily life.
How much money should I save before moving abroad?
A good rule of thumb is to save at least 3–6 months’ worth of living expenses, plus extra for flights, visa fees, and emergencies. Some countries require proof of financial stability for long-term visas, so check specific requirements in advance.
What’s the best way to find housing in a new country?
Start with short-term rentals through platforms like Airbnb or Agoda while you search for a long-term place. Use Facebook groups, real estate websites, and local agents to explore options. Visiting rental offices in person can also help bypass agents and secure better deals.
How do I set up a bank account as a foreigner?
Each country has different requirements, but generally, you’ll need a passport, visa, proof of address, and sometimes proof of income. Some banks cater to expats and make the process easier. If opening an account is difficult, consider using international banking apps like Wise or Revolut for transfers and payments.
What should I pack when moving abroad?
Pack essentials like important documents, medications, and electronics with international compatibility. Clothes should match the climate, but don’t overpack—most things can be bought locally. If you rely on specific brands (like skincare or certain foods), bring a small supply until you find alternatives abroad.
