She Strengthens

The High Cost of Repatriation: Lessons Learned from My Move Back to Canada

A Costly Lesson in Planning

Two years ago, I wrote about the mistakes I made when moving from Canada to the UK. Unfortunately, it seems I didn’t learn my lesson well enough. When my work visa expired, I had to return to Canada, leaving behind my UK life. I thought I had planned my return carefully, but in the end, it cost me a significant amount of money.

Flight Fiasco

I booked my flights at the beginning of the summer, opting for a direct flight from Gatwick to Vancouver via Air Transat. However, I didn’t realize that their baggage policies had changed, so I upgraded my flight to check a bag, adding $70 CAD to my ticket price. I also booked a second flight from Vancouver to Kamloops, where my parents live, with Air Canada.

Air Transat ticket: $457.72 CAD ($349.49 USD)
Air Canada ticket: $170.23 CAD ($129.98 USD)

Luggage and Shipping Nightmares

Packing my belongings was a daunting task. I had sent a full suitcase ahead with a family member, but I still had a lot to fit into my remaining luggage. My housemate lent me an old suitcase, which I added to my Air Transat flight. Even with two suitcases, I struggled to fit everything, so I sent some items ahead via mail.

Shipping: approx. $180.13 CAD ($137.54 USD)
Luggage: $184 CAD ($140.49 USD)

Unforeseen Expenses

This is where things started to go awry. I underestimated the train schedule from my town to Gatwick Airport and had to book a hotel room in London the night before my flight. I also failed to cancel my UK phone plan in time, resulting in an extra month’s payment.

Hotel room: $299.97 CAD ($229.04 USD)
Gatwick Express: $33.92 CAD ($25.90 USD)
UK phone bill: $35.60 CAD ($27.18 USD)

The Final Tally

In total, I spent $1,361.57 CAD ($1,039.63 USD) to move back to Canada. While it’s a significant amount, I’m grateful to have had an emergency fund to cover the costs. I’ve learned some valuable lessons about planning and budgeting, and I’m excited to start this new chapter in my life.

Moving Forward

My UK adventure may be over, but I’m grateful for the experiences and memories I made. I’m now focused on finding a new job and rebuilding my life in Canada. While my wallet may be lighter, I’m wiser and more resilient for it.