Too many people spend money they earn, to buy things they don't want..to impress people that they don't like. --Will Rogers

Many migrant workers struggle financially despite earning more than they did back home. Why? Because they unknowingly fall into bad money habits abroad that drain their hard-earned cash.

If you want to thrive financially and make the most of your time working overseas, here are five habits that will keep you broke abroad—and how to avoid them!

1. Living Beyond Your Means

Just because you earn in dollars or dirhams doesn’t mean you should spend like a millionaire. Many migrants get carried away with the higher income and start living a lifestyle they can’t sustain—expensive rent, unnecessary gadgets, and dining out too often. Before you know it, your paycheck disappears before the month ends.

Solution: Follow the 50/30/20 rule for budgeting as a migrant worker: 50% for needs, 30% for wants, and 20% for savings. Prioritize financial planning for expats to avoid lifestyle inflation.

2. Failing to Save Consistently

If your savings plan is “I’ll save whatever is left at the end of the month,” chances are, you’re not saving at all. Many migrants underestimate the importance of saving tips for migrant workers and only realize too late that they have nothing to fall back on when emergencies arise.

Solution: Automate your savings! The moment your salary hits your account, transfer a portion into a savings account or SACCO before spending anything else. A good rule of thumb is to save at least 20% of your income every month.

3. Sending All Your Money Back Home

Supporting family is important, but if you send every cent home, you’re setting yourself up for failure. Many migrants fall into the trap of over-remitting, leaving themselves with nothing to invest in their own future. Worse, some family members might misuse the money, expecting you to always send more.

Solution: Set clear financial boundaries with family. Instead of sending random amounts whenever asked, create a fixed monthly budget for family support. Also, make sure to invest a portion of your earnings in assets back home, like land, a business, or savings plans.

4. Not Having a Financial Plan

Many migrant workers live paycheck to paycheck without a plan for the future. Without proper financial planning for expats, it’s easy to get lost in daily expenses and fail to prepare for bigger financial goals, like buying a home or retirement.

Solution: Set short-term and long-term financial goals. Ask yourself: What do I want to achieve in 5 years? Do I want to start a business? Buy land? Retire early? Having a plan helps you make smart money moves abroad and stay focused on securing your future.

5. Ignoring Investment Opportunities

Many migrants work for years without ever investing back home, thinking they’ll start “one day.” But “one day” never comes, and before they know it, they’ve spent years abroad without any real financial progress.

Solution: Start small. Whether it’s joining a SACCO, buying land, or investing in a business, make sure your money is working for you. If you’re unsure where to start, research how to manage money overseas and seek guidance from financial experts.

Final Thoughts: How to Avoid Being Broke Abroad

The truth is, earning more money won’t automatically make you rich—good financial habits will. If you’re working abroad, don’t let poor money decisions leave you struggling. Avoid these money mistakes abroad, start saving early, and focus on smart financial planning to secure your future.

What’s your biggest financial lesson from working abroad? Share your experience in the comments!