How to Plan an International Move With Kids (What to Do First, Second, and Third)

What if you just… did it?Not forever—but for six months, a year, or longer.This episode is for anyone quietly daydreaming about a family sabbatical, an overseas home swap, or packing up and starting fresh somewhere new. Erin sits down with her friend Kelly Herkert, who moved her family—husband and two kids—to Luxembourg for what they thought would be a two-year adventure… and are now well into year three.Together, they unpack the full reality of relocating abroad as a family: the logistics no one glamorizes, the emotional whiplash that doesn’t show up on Instagram, and the unexpected ways the experience reshapes kids, marriages, and identity.They cover everything from schools, housing, healthcare, and visas to friendships, loneliness, grief for what you leave behind, and the moment you realize you don’t actually want to leave yet. This is not a “sell everything and move to Europe” fantasy episode—it’s honest, grounding, and deeply practical.If you’ve ever thought, Is this irresponsible? Are we going to mess up our kids? Could we actually do this?—this conversation is for you.Key Takeaways for ListenersThere is no perfect time—transitions matter more than timingKids are resilient, but adults need more support than they expectLogistics are manageable with planning and the right local helpInternational schools are often designed for transition and mobilityHealthcare abroad is frequently an upgrade, not a downgradeLoneliness is normal—and temporary—with intention and timeThis kind of move builds resilience you cannot replicate at homeDon't do it if you're running away from something—only do it if you’re running toward a new experience.