Everything they don't tell you about the financial realities of moving overseas

An overseas PCS isn’t just about packing boxes and printing passports—it’s about prepping your wallet for the unexpected.

When you get those long-awaited OCONUS (also known as “Outside Continental United States”) orders, the checklist comes fast: passports, household goods shipment, school records, pet paperwork, and so on. But the one thing they don’t give you is a real talk about money. Sure, there’s COLA (Cost of Living Allowance) and per diem for travel, but let’s be honest: those numbers look good on paper until you realize how quickly they vanish in the chaos of an international move.

Also Read: 10 Things you only know if you’ve given birth on Tricare

Let’s break down the unexpected wallet punches you might face during an overseas PCS, and how to financially prep like the seasoned military nomad you’re becoming.

The Great Car Debate: Ship It or Buy Local?

One of the biggest decisions (and expenses) is whether to ship your vehicle or buy one in-country. On the surface, shipping your car seems like the frugal option. After all, it’s already paid for, right? But here’s the catch:

Shipping Pros:

You know your vehicle’s condition
It might be cheaper than buying in a tight overseas market
You avoid language barrier headaches when car shopping abroad

Shipping Cons:

You’ll likely wait 6-10 weeks to see your car again
You may still need to buy a local car for your spouse
Certain cars don’t meet host-nation regulations

Buying Local Pros:

Immediate transportation upon arrival
Access to right-hand drive if you’re in countries like Japan or the United Kingdom

Buying Local Cons:

Prices may be inflated due to limited inventory
You’ll need to understand local insurance, registration, and taxes

Pro Tip: Budget $3,000 to $7,000 if you’re buying local, and add extra for inspection costs or maintenance.

Food Inflation and the Currency Conversion Trap

You’ve got your housing, your furniture is on a boat, and you’re ready to shop for groceries. Then BOOM: sticker shock.

In many OCONUS locations, prices off-post are significantly higher, and fluctuating exchange rates can mess with your budget. You’ll need more than good intentions and commissary access (it’s sometimes better to buy local things, like produce).

Budget Tips:

Start a local price comparison sheet early
Track exchange rates weekly with apps like Xe or Revolut
Use COLA wisely; don’t treat it like “extra” money

Sneaky Costs to Budget For:

Local dining (you’ll want to eat out and explore!)
Takeout minimums, delivery fees, and tipping culture (or lack thereof)

overseas PCS — Remember that currency conversion also occurs with credit and debit cards. Check with your bank for any associated fees. (Mikhail Nilov)

The Adventure Tax: Say Yes, But Budget For It

Let’s be real: you’re not moving across the world just to sit on base. There will be day trips, festivals, last-minute hops to nearby countries, and those “once-in-a-lifetime” moments that somehow happen monthly. This is where financial prep meets FOMO prevention.

Set aside an adventure fund as part of your overseas PCS planning. Aim for at least $1,500 for spontaneous travel, amusement parks, or that food tour your spouse swore was “cultural immersion.”

Hidden Costs You’ll Kick Yourself for Missing

Adapters & Electronics: Your plug won’t fit. Your hair tools might fry. Budget for replacements.
Pet Quarantine or Vet Costs: Not all costs are covered by reimbursement.
Temporary Lodging: That 10-day TLA sometimes turns into 20+ days. Have a cushion ready.

Think Beyond the Reimbursement

Yes, you’ll get reimbursed for some costs. But remember: reimbursements don’t hit immediately, and they rarely cover everything. PCSing overseas is an incredible opportunity, but it also requires strategic financial prep.

Build a PCS fund early. Track your spending. Don’t blow your COLA on gadgets you’ll leave behind. And above all, prep your wallet like you prep your orders: with precision, planning, and maybe a little prayer.