- A British woman who moved from Manchester to Cape Town shared three costly mistakes she made just three weeks after relocating to South Africa.
- She regretted shipping her entire household from the UK and underestimated the cost of everyday essentials while waiting for her belongings to arrive.
- South Africans and other expatriates responded with advice, including trying furnished accommodation before committing to a long-term move.
A British woman who relocated from Manchester in the United Kingdom to Cape Town, South Africa, has shared the challenges she encountered during her first three weeks in her new home.
Source: Instagram
In a video posted on October 14, 2026, the woman, who uses the social media handle @ourcptlife, explained three decisions she would reconsider if she had the opportunity to plan the move again.
Her experience prompted South Africans and other expatriates to share advice and personal stories about relocating to the country.
British woman reveals costly mistake when moving to Cape Town
One of the woman's biggest regrets was shipping her entire household from Manchester to South Africa in a container.
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She explained that she and her family had packed up their home and arranged to transport their belongings overseas. However, three weeks after arriving in Cape Town, their possessions had yet to arrive, leaving them questioning whether shipping everything had been necessary.
The woman said people had warned her that household appliances could be expensive in South Africa. However, after finding reasonably priced options locally, she began to reconsider whether bringing everything from the UK had been worth the cost.
Her experience highlighted a challenge that people relocating internationally may face: the cost of transporting household goods can be significant, and buying selected items after arrival may sometimes be more practical as reported by Briefly News.
Everyday expenses caught the family off guard
The second lesson concerned budgeting for the move.
The family had planned for major expenses such as flights, rent, shipping fees and deposits. However, they had not fully accounted for the smaller costs that arise when setting up a new home.
These included temporary furniture, basic kitchen supplies, car hire and replacing items they already owned but could not access while their belongings remained in transit.
The additional expenses accumulated quickly, showing how the cost of relocating can extend well beyond travel and accommodation.
She explained:
"Moving countries isn't just about getting on a plane. You're basically starting again with all the boring everyday stuff."
The experience served as a reminder for prospective expatriates to budget for the first few weeks or months, including temporary accommodation, transport, household essentials and unexpected purchases.
Despite the difficulties, the woman clarified that she did not regret moving to South Africa. Her concerns were about how she had prepared for the relocation rather than the decision to move itself.
Watch the video of her regrets below:
Netizens advise British woman after Cape Town move
The comment section was filled with people who related to the woman's experience and others who shared advice for settling into South Africa.
@gracemilella wrote:
"Welcome to Cape Town 👏"
@baert.kelly said:
"I would also never do the shipping. I believe that's a very good tip for others who still have to start their journey 😍"
@stellenberg shared:
"I love following your story. My parents emigrated here in 1970. They had us kids 5, 4 and me, 3. Following you helps me understand how my Mum felt. I have my British passport, but South Africa is my home."
@jacobfatima896 commented:
"I know you're new in Cape Town. Take it easy and breathe, don't stress. Wish you all the best."
@jturner_221 suggested:
"Maybe do a three-month lease in a furnished home first?"
Source: TUKO.co.ke