Living abroad as a Brit is an exciting experience. It’s a chance to dive into a brand-new culture, maybe pick up a new language, and make some amazing connections along the way. Plus, you get to escape the rain (hopefully).
Whether you’ve moved abroad for work or play, the excitement of adapting to a new way of life is both exhilarating and rewarding, so it’s not surprising that 5.5 million Brits choose to live abroad, with over 600,000 in the USA alone. But at the same time, it’s completely natural to occasionally yearn for home or the products and brands you’ve grown up with.
If you’re a Brit living abroad, you probably miss a few things: Marmite, Jaffa Cakes, or maybe the latest range from Marks and Sparks. Whether it’s your favorite snack, clothing brand, or household item, it can be tricky to find them abroad. The good news is that it’s easier than ever to get your hands on goods from your favorite UK brands abroad.
Let’s look at some of the best ways to do it.
Method #1: Search for Nearby British Shops
If you’re missing the taste of home or the products and brands you’ve grown up with, the first thing you should do is check if there are any British shops near you. You’ll often find British food shops abroad that stock a wide range of UK products. Find them by searching online or asking locals in your area. It’s also worth looking at the international sections of local supermarkets.
If you can’t find any local shops, try to connect with other expats online. They’ll likely be happy to share tips with you, and you might be able to make new friends. Check out travel blogs and social media for tips and tricks, too. There are loads of people making great content about Brits living abroad, like Vinny Thomas.
Method #2: Check if Your Favorite UK Brands Offer International Shipping
Online shopping has made it easier than ever to order your favorite UK brands from anywhere in the world. Simply visit the brand’s website and see if it offers international shipping.
Many UK brands now offer this service, making it possible for you to buy products at the same prices as you would in the UK and access a wider range of items, including exclusive and limited-edition products.
When you’re shopping online from abroad, remember that you may face extra fees, such as customs duties and taxes. These can significantly increase the cost. It’s also worth noting that shipping restrictions may apply to particular products, and delivery times can range from a few days to several weeks or months.
Method #3: Use a UK Parcel-Forwarding Service
If your favorite UK brand doesn’t offer international shipping or you want to order from multiple companies, don’t worry, as there’s another option available to you — parcel forwarding.
UK parcel-forwarding services like myUKmailbox allow you to buy from UK brands and get them delivered to a UK address. They then forward your packages to your international address. Some parcel-forwarding companies also offer package consolidation, so you can order from multiple companies and get your goods sent in one package to save on shipping.
It’s important to bear in mind that there may be restrictions on what parcel-forwarding services can send. These often include:
- Explosive items like fireworks, cigarette lighters, and camping stoves
- Flammable items like alcohol, paint, or cooking fuel
- Narcotics, including tobacco, CBD oil, and prescription medicines
Before you sign up for a parcel-forwarding service, check its terms and conditions to see what you can and cannot use the service for.
Finding Your Favorite Products Abroad
Living abroad can be an incredibly exciting experience, but it’s only natural to occasionally miss your favorite UK brands and products. With online shopping, local British shops, and parcel-forwarding services, it’s easier than ever to get your hands on them, no matter where you are in the world.
Whether ordering online or connecting with other expats, you have plenty of ways to satisfy your cravings and get your fix. Just be sure to keep in mind potential challenges like extra fees and shipping restrictions. Happy shopping!
