5 Things to Stop Doing to Save Money Abroad

Living abroad is a dream for many, but let’s be honest it can be financially draining, especially when you're trying to balance rent, bills, feeding, remittances, and personal needs in a high-cost country. You may be earning in pounds or dollars, but if you’re not smart with your spending, you’ll still find yourself broke by the second week of every month.

Stop Grocery Shopping Like You’re Still in Nigeria

In Nigeria, many of us are used to buying food daily you stop by the roadside seller to pick up just what you need for tonight. Abroad? That approach is a financial trap.

Supermarkets abroad are designed to make you spend more per visit and going multiple times a week means multiple chances to make impulse purchases.

Why it’s costing you:

• Higher prices at nearby “convenience” stores

• Transport costs if you don’t live near a major supermarket

• No bulk discounts = more money spent over time

What to do instead:

• Buy in bulk: Stock up on rice, garri, beans, oil, and non-perishables once or twice a month.

• Use African/ethnic markets: They're often cheaper for specific ingredients.

• Meal prep: Cook in bulk , soups like egusi, ogbono, okra or stew can be portioned and frozen. You’ll save time and money.

Tip: A ₦15k soup pot in Lagos can cost £30–£50 abroad. Don't let it waste , plan your meals properly.

Stop Sending Money Home Without a Budget or Boundaries

Let’s be real many diaspora Nigerians feel obligated to support their families financially. But there’s a fine line between helping and overextending.

Why it’s draining you:

• You’re not budgeting for these transfers; they’re reactionary.

• Family demands often don’t consider your living costs abroad.

• You feel guilty when you can’t meet every request, and it adds stress.

What to do instead:

• Set a remittance budget: Decide what you can realistically send monthly without harming your own financial health.

• Have honest conversations: Communicate your limitations clearly to your loved ones.

• Create a support plan: Instead of endless one-time requests, consider helping with a long-term solution e.g., support a family member’s business or education.

Tip: Remember you can’t pour from an empty cup. Your future is just as important as theirs.

Stop Living Alone When You Can’t Afford It

Yes, we all love peace and privacy. But in cities where rent is brutal, living solo can be a luxury you simply can’t afford yet.

Why it’s sabotaging your savings:

• High rent and utility bills take up over 50% of your monthly income

• You’re solely responsible for Wi-Fi, electricity, water, heating

• No one to share groceries or basic household items with

What to do instead:

• Get roommates: Share a flat with trusted friends or other diaspora Nigerians. It cuts your rent and utility bills in half or more.

• Live in the suburbs: Commute a bit longer, save on rent. Weigh the cost of transport versus rent.

• Negotiate rent: Some landlords are open to discounts for longer leases or early payments.

Tip: Use local housing groups (on Facebook, WhatsApp, or Telegram) to find diaspora-friendly shared housing.

Stop Eating Out Like You’re on Holiday

The average restaurant meal abroad can cost anywhere from $15–$30 and that’s before drinks, tips, or taxes. Eating out even three times a week adds up to hundreds per month.

Why it’s wrecking your budget:

Food delivery apps charge service and delivery fees

You’re not controlling portion sizes or ingredients

You start seeing eating out as “normal,” not a treat

What to do instead:

• Cook at home more often: Basic dishes like rice, yam porridge, jollof, beans, and stew are easy and affordable.

• Pack lunch to work or school: A flask of jollof rice will save you £10–£15 daily.

• Limit eating out: Set a monthly eating-out budget maybe once or twice a month for social events.

Tip: Cooking saves you money and keeps you connected to your culture.

Stop Subscribing to Every Service You Don’t Use

Streaming platforms, fitness apps, online classes, cloud storage these small monthly fees add up quickly and silently drain your account.

Why it’s hurting your finances:

• You forget you even subscribed

• You’re paying for things you barely use

• You’re duplicating services (e.g., Spotify + Apple Music + YouTube Premium)

What to do instead:

• Audit your subscriptions: Go through your bank statement and cancel what you’re not using.

• Use shared plans: Netflix and Spotify have family options. Share with roommates or trusted friends.

• Use free versions where possible: Do you really need premium?

Tip: Use budgeting apps like Monzo, YNAB, or Mint to track recurring payments automatically.

Living abroad doesn’t have to mean living hand-to-mouth. The pressure is real, but by cutting out some habits and embracing smarter money choices, you can stretch your income, save for your future, and still enjoy the best of both worlds abroad and at home. It’s not about suffering. It’s about living wisely.