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Products + Services We Recommend For Day-To-Day Expat Life
Product + Service Recommendations
Welcome to our curated list of product and service recommendations, designed specifically for American expats like you. This collection has been carefully developed through our own trial and error, so you can benefit from the tools and resources we’ve found most useful in our own journey. Whether you’re looking for affordable options or premium services, we’ve got you covered. Whenever possible, we’ve included free versions of resources alongside any discounted premium offers we’ve discovered, ensuring you have the flexibility to choose what works best for you.
While some of the links on this page may earn us a small commission, rest assured, it comes at no extra cost to you. This helps support the work we do in sharing helpful resources with the expat community. We truly appreciate your support and hope these recommendations make your transition easier and more enjoyable.
pet carriers >>
Is my pet carrier airline approved?
Choosing the right pet carrier is crucial for American expats traveling with their pets, as airlines enforce strict policies to ensure safety and compliance. An FAA-approved carrier is essential because it meets specific size, ventilation, and durability requirements, reducing the risk of issues during check-in or boarding. Airlines can deny travel if the carrier doesn’t meet their standards, leading to unnecessary stress and delays. Investing in a high-quality, airline-compliant pet carrier ensures your pet’s comfort and safety while avoiding last-minute complications, making the journey smoother for both you and your four-legged friend.
<< pet carriers
news outlets >>
Who do we trust?
Ground News and Tangle News are two innovative platforms that offer unique benefits for those seeking reliable and balanced news aggregation. Ground News stands out by providing a “bias rating” for each story, allowing users to compare how different outlets cover the same topic and identify potential media bias. This transparency helps readers develop a more nuanced understanding of current events. Tangle News, on the other hand, focuses on presenting multiple perspectives in a single, concise newsletter, making it easier to grasp the full spectrum of opinions on contentious issues. Both platforms emphasize objectivity and critical thinking, empowering users to move beyond echo chambers and make informed decisions. By combining these tools, readers can access a well-rounded, fact-based view of the news, fostering greater media literacy and reducing polarization.
To get a subscribers discount to Ground News, use this link!
banks >>
Where to bank overseas?
Opening an overseas bank account offers American expats financial stability and flexibility, especially amid growing political and economic uncertainty in the U.S. With concerns over inflation, market volatility, and potential policy shifts under the current administration, diversifying your assets internationally can provide a safeguard against domestic instability. Overseas accounts often feature stronger currencies, better interest rates, and lower international transaction fees, making them ideal for managing finances abroad. For expats, this means not only greater financial security but also protection from U.S.-specific risks, ensuring your money remains accessible and stable no matter where you live or what happens at home.
<< banks
tax services >>
What’s the best tax software for expats?
Handling taxes as an American expat can be complicated, with strict IRS requirements, foreign income rules, and potential double taxation to navigate. Choosing a tax service that specializes in U.S. expat taxation ensures you stay compliant while maximizing deductions, tax credits, and treaty benefits. The right service should offer expert guidance on FBAR, FATCA, and foreign tax credits, helping you avoid penalties and unnecessary stress. Whether you need full-service filing or an easy-to-use DIY platform, investing in a trusted expat tax service simplifies the process—giving you peace of mind and more time to enjoy life abroad.
packing totes >>
Are my packing totes durable and travel-friendly?
Choosing the right packing totes is essential for American expats relocating abroad, as they help keep belongings protected, organized, and easy to access during the move. Clear totes with gasket seals and secure latches provide an extra layer of protection against dust, moisture, and pests—ensuring that your items stay safe, even in long-term storage or unpredictable travel conditions. Their transparent design makes it easy to identify contents without opening each bin, while a range of sizes allows for efficient packing and stacking. Investing in high-quality, sealed packing totes helps prevent damage and also simplifies customs inspections. These ones by Sterilite are my favorites. I have more than a dozen in various sizes, and they’re fantastic.
<< packing totes
travel insurance >>
Do I need temporary health insurance?
Travel insurance is essential for American expats, especially during the initial stages of immigration, as it provides critical coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and unexpected events while you settle into your new home. Many countries require proof of private health insurance to grant residency, and even in nations with robust public healthcare systems, access is often limited until you’ve completed the residency process. Private health insurance ensures you’re protected from high medical costs and offers peace of mind during the transition. It also bridges the gap until you qualify for local healthcare, making it a smart and necessary investment for expats starting their journey abroad. Here’s a few companies we recommend, but if you’d like to read more about this topic, check out our Ultimate Guide to Health Coverage Abroad!
