Life Abroad
Your First Month Abroad: A Practical Checklist
Updated July 2026 · 7 min read
Getting the visa and the flight booked is the hard part everyone prepares for — but the small logistics of the first few weeks (a bank account, a SIM card, figuring out where to buy groceries) are what actually make the first month abroad feel overwhelming. Here's the order to actually do things in, and what to expect.
What should I do in my first week abroad?
Priority order matters more than most students expect. In roughly this order: register with your university (this usually unlocks your student ID and health cover), sort out accommodation logistics (keys, utilities, internet), open a local bank account, get a local SIM card, and register with a local doctor or health service if your country requires it. Everything else — furnishing your room, exploring the city, meeting people — can wait until these basics are handled.
How do I open a bank account as an international student?
Most banks require your passport, proof of address (often a university or landlord letter), and your student visa or enrolment confirmation. Many universities partner with specific banks and can point you to a branch used to processing international student accounts quickly — worth asking your international student office in week one, since general high-street branches can be slower with unfamiliar paperwork.
Quick tip: Bring a small amount of cash in the local currency for your first few days — some processes (like a SIM card or a deposit) may need to happen before your new local bank account and card are fully active.
Is it normal to feel homesick, and how do I cope?
Yes — homesickness in the first few weeks is extremely common and not a sign you've made the wrong decision. It typically eases once you build a routine and a small social circle. Joining your university's international student society or a course-related club in the first two weeks is one of the most effective ways to speed that up, since it gives you a built-in group of people going through the exact same adjustment.
How much money should I budget for my first month?
Budget for more than your usual monthly cost of living in that first month — you'll likely pay a rental deposit, buy basic kitchen and bedroom items, and cover a SIM card and transport card setup fee, on top of normal food and travel costs. A realistic buffer is 30-50% above your expected monthly living cost, specifically for that first month only.
Do I need a local SIM card and phone plan right away?
Yes, ideally within the first day or two — you'll need a working local number for your bank account, university registration, and any local deliveries or appointments. Prepaid SIM plans are usually the easiest option initially, since they don't require a local credit history or bank account, which you likely won't have yet.
Frequently asked questions
Generally no — luggage space is limited and these items are usually cheap and easy to buy locally in your first few days. Prioritise documents, a few days of clothing, and any essential medication instead.
Want a full pre-departure checklist for your destination?
Your CloudBridge counsellor can walk you through exactly what to expect in your first weeks — free, no obligation.