Landing on New Soil: What to Do in Your First 48 Hours Abroad

The plane touches down. You step into a new country, suitcase in hand, excitement racing through your chest, and suddenly it hits you: now what?

The first 48 hours abroad can feel like a whirlwind. Between jet lag, new surroundings, and the pressure to get your bearings, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But with a little guidance from us here at the Jubeerich one of the leading study abroad consultants in Kerala, those first two days can set the tone for a smooth and confident start to your journey.

Whether you’re moving abroad for work, travel, or to study abroad, here’s exactly what to do in your first 48 hours on new soil.

Before You Arrive: Lay the Groundwork

While this post focuses on what to do after arrival, a bit of planning before you even board the flight can ease your transition significantly:

• Book airport pickup or research local ride-hailing apps and public transit options.
• Notify your accommodation of your arrival time.
• Download offline maps of your new city.
• Save digital and printed copies of important documents: passport, visa, insurance.
• Prepare an emergency contact list, both on your phone and on paper.

A little prep goes a long way when you’re about to study abroad or start life in a new country. We are at Jubeerich Study Abroad one of the leading study abroad consultants in Kerala pride ourselves on our expertise in ensure our clients have a successful and stress free transition.

1. Navigate the Airport Like a Local

Once you land, stay calm and focused as you move through customs and immigration. After collecting your luggage:

• Check your pickup details (look for your name card or driver instructions).
• Withdraw local currency from an ATM if needed.
• Buy a local SIM card at the airport or nearby kiosk. Look for plans with data and basic call/SMS balance.

This step ensures you’re immediately connected and can use navigation, translation, or ride apps with ease.

2. Settle Into Your Accommodation

Whether you’re headed to an apartment, student dorm, or temporary stay, your goal is to get in, get comfortable, and get organized.

• Pick up your keys or check in.
• Do a quick room check: electricity, water, Wi-Fi, security locks.
• Unpack essentials, just enough to feel at home.
• Store your passport and valuables safely.
• Note emergency exits and procedures if staying in a hotel or hostel.

If you’re in the country to study abroad, this is the time to get a feel for your new daily environment.

3. Connect With the Outside World

Now that you’re connected with a local SIM, take these quick actions:

• Share your new location with a trusted friend or family member.
• Save local emergency numbers, including police, ambulance, fire, and your embassy.
• Bookmark nearby hospitals and pharmacies in Google Maps.
• Register with your embassy if staying long-term.

Safety isn’t about paranoia. It’s about being prepared. This is especially true for study abroad students navigating solo living in a new place.

4. Find the Nearest Grocery Store

Nothing says “I live here now” like your first grocery run.

• Start with basics: drinking water, snacks, bread, fruit, toiletries.
• If you’re cooking, buy a few ingredients for simple meals.
• Don’t overthink. Just pick up what you need for one or two days.
• Ask locals or search online for budget-friendly stores nearby.

If you’re tired or overwhelmed, ready-made meals can be a lifesaver on your first night. These little comforts matter when you’re adjusting to study abroad life.

5. Explore Your Immediate Neighbourhood

• Walk around the block to understand your surroundings.
• Locate key spots: bus and train stops, cafés, clinics, ATM.
• Learn how long it takes to reach your school, workplace, or city center.
• Snap photos of landmarks to help you remember directions.

Exploring on foot is a great way to feel grounded, especially if you’re about to study abroad and need to locate your university or college campus.

6. Prioritise Rest and Mental Wellbeing

Your body and mind are adjusting to a lot. Jet lag, time zone changes, cultural differences, and maybe even a little homesickness can all take a toll.

• Hydrate well, get some fresh air, and try to sleep at night even if it’s hard.
• Resist the urge to do everything at once. You don’t need to explore the whole city on Day 1.
• Journal or voice record your first impressions and emotions. It helps you process the shift.
• Join local expat or student groups online for support and tips.

When you study abroad, your mental and emotional wellbeing is just as important as academic readiness. Give yourself permission to adjust at your own pace. Jubeerich Study Abroad one of the leading study abroad consultants in Kerala helps take the mental load of going through this process by assisting you with confidence and clarity at every step of the journey.

Final Thoughts: One Step at a Time

Your first 48 hours abroad won’t be perfect, and that’s okay. They’re not meant to be. But by checking off the essentials, grounding yourself in your new space, and taking care of your wellbeing, you’ll start strong and confident.

Soon enough, the streets will feel familiar, and you’ll stop noticing the foreignness. You’ll belong. For now, just focus on the next small step. Jubeerich Study Abroad one of the leading study abroad consultants in Kerala helps you take the right steps both before and after your study abroad journey.

Ready to start your study abroad journey but don’t know where to begin?

Our experts at Jubeerich Study Abroad one of the leading study abroad consultants in Kerala will guide you through every step so your first 48 hours (and beyond) are smooth and stress-free.

Book a Free Consultation Today

💡 Bonus: Free First 48-Hour Checklist

Want a printable guide to take with you?

Download our FREE First 48-Hour Abroad Checklist PDF

Have you recently moved to a new country to study abroad? What was your experience like in your first 48 hours?

Share your story in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you!