What to Wear to a Royal Garden Party: behind the scenes at the palace in 2025

What to Wear to a Royal Garden Party: behind the scenes at the palace in 2025

There’s something truly magical about the Royal lifestyle, and if you’re anything like me, you’ll understand why I’m absolutely enchanted by it. My journey into this glamorous world began a few years ago, when I had the incredible opportunity to attend a Royal Garden Party.

I still remember the excitement, the preparation for the event, and the awe-inspiring feeling of being part of something so grand and traditional. It was not just an event; it was a memory etched in time.

Fast forward to 2025, and the allure of these Royal Garden Parties, now under the reign of King Charles, has grown even more. It’s like stepping into a page of history, yet each year brings its own contemporary twist, especially in terms of fashion. Let’s dive into what it takes to dress for such a prestigious event, blending the time-honoured traditions with the vibrant pulse of current fashion trends.

Dates for this year’s parties are:

There are usually two garden parties a year at Buckingham Palace in May or June, and one at Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh in June or July. At time of publishing, 2025 dates are not yet available.

Bookmark this post as we will update here as soon as we know.

 

 

Fashion Forward: The 2025 Guide to Royal Garden Party Attire

When dressing for a Royal Garden Party, the aim is to strike a perfect balance between formality and the latest fashion. It’s about respecting the grandeur of the palace and its traditions while showcasing a bit of your own personality and style.

 

For Women:

  • The dress code: The classic formal day dress or sophisticated skirt and blouse combo remains the go-to choice. Modest hemlines and tasteful silhouettes are key to maintaining decorum at such an exclusive event.
  • 2025 trends: Romantic influences are dominating this year, with flowing fabrics, puffed sleeves, and delicate lace details taking centre stage. Expect to see whimsical prints inspired by nature, such as butterflies, wildflowers, and birds, adding a playful yet elegant touch. Three-dimensional floral appliqués and soft pleating will be popular for dresses and skirts.
  • Colour and style: While bold florals and vibrant pastel shades like lavender, mint, and coral are trending, neutrals such as soft beige and champagne offer a timeless option. Monochrome outfits in shades like blush or dove grey are also gaining traction. Sleeveless and off-the-shoulder designs are still popular, but this season they feature more demure necklines and flowing capes or wraps for added sophistication. Of course, a chic hat or fascinator remains non-negotiable—look for designs incorporating feathers, bows, or minimalist geometric shapes to stand out.

 

For Men:

  • Dress code essentials: A sharp, well-fitted suit in light neutral tones such as stone, taupe, or dusty blue is ideal. For a classic yet modern twist, consider pairing your suit with a waistcoat in a complementary colour or pattern.
  • 2025 trends: This year is about blending traditional British style with subtle contemporary updates. Striped or lightly patterned ties are back in vogue, as are textured fabrics like herringbone or linen blends. Accessories such as pocket squares in bold prints and tie pins with a vintage touch add an air of refined individuality.
  • Modern twists: If you prefer a more casual approach while maintaining formality, try pairing your blazer with tapered trousers in a different shade or texture. Stylish footwear choices like polished leather brogues or two-tone loafers are on trend. If you’re feeling daring, a patterned blazer (think checks or subtle florals) can add character to your look without straying too far from tradition.

 

Here’s how we addressed it:

 

Understanding the Day Dress Code at Buckingham Palace

While embracing 2025’s fashion trends, it’s essential to respect the specific “day dress code” required at Buckingham Palace for Royal Garden Parties.

For Women: Opt for elegant day dresses, preferably knee-length or longer, that align with the Palace’s decorum. Incorporate contemporary trends to add a modern flair.

For Men: The day dress code calls for a suit or a smart blazer and trousers. Traditional colours are a safe bet, but lighter shades or subtle patterns can offer a stylish, contemporary edge.

There is also a lot of great advice and discussion in the comments on this blog – take a look below.

 

Practical Tips for a Flawless Royal Garden Party Experience

 

Comfort Meets Style: Practical Considerations

  • Footwear: Choosing the right shoes is crucial. For ladies, the chunky heels of 2019 have given way to the chic and comfortable kitten heels in 2025, perfect for gracefully navigating the garden terrain. For gentlemen, stylish loafers or comfortable dress shoes are ideal.
  • Dressing for the weather: The English weather is nothing if not unpredictable. Lightweight, airy dresses are perfect for warmer days, while adding a stylish blazer or a light jacket can prepare you for a cooler turn in the weather. Men can opt for breathable fabrics in their suits to stay comfortable.

 

Colour and Trend Insights:

  • Bold and Bright: This year, it’s all about embracing vibrant colours. Gone are the days of sticking solely to navy, black, or grey. A boldly printed dress or a brightly coloured suit can make a fantastic fashion statement.
  • Shimmer and Shine: The ‘heavy metals’ trend is in, allowing you to incorporate shimmering elements into your attire, adding a touch of glamour and helping you stand out in the most sophisticated way.

The Art of Dressing for the Occasion:

Remember, the essence of Royal Garden Party attire is finding that sweet spot between formal and fashionable. It’s about dressing respectfully for the occasion while still injecting your unique style into your outfit. The key is to respect the tradition but also embrace the new – blending the old with the new is what 2025 is all about!

 

A Royal garden party invitation - hosted by the Queen at Buckingham Palace. Copyright royal.com

Image courtesy royal.com

 

Got any questions or need more tips on Royal events or fashion? I’m always here to share insights and advice.

Drop a comment, and let’s keep the conversation going. Your curiosity and engagement are what drive this community of royal fashion enthusiasts. Let’s explore this glamorous world together!

 

More information:

Keep an eye on the Royal website for updates on events in 2025.

Is there any other information you’d like to see covered about Royal events? Let us know and we’ll find out more. We’d love to hear from you – please do drop us a line in the comments.

 

 

 

House sitting tips – how to become a PAID house sitter [2025 guide!]

House sitting tips – how to become a PAID house sitter [2025 guide!]

Hey there, fellow travellers and aspiring house sitters! It’s Sarah here, bringing you the freshest insights in our how to become a paid house sitter – 2025 guide.

If you’ve finally decided to turn your passion for house sitting into a thriving business, you’re in the right place. Transitioning from free house sitting to a paid role is a journey filled with learning, growth, and exciting House Sitting Opportunities.

But don’t worry, you’re not alone on this journey. We’ve combined our years of experience with the collective wisdom of our house sitting community on YouTube and Facebook to give you a comprehensive step-by-step guide.

This guide is all about making that pivotal transition with confidence and savvy.

 

How to become a PAID house sitter in 2025: complete guide!

 

Step 1: Gain Experience and Build a Reputation

I get it, you’re eager to start earning as a house sitter. But remember, every seasoned professional began somewhere, and often, that’s with volunteering. Yes, I’m talking about initially house sitting for free.

It’s a tried and tested pathway for many in our community, and it’s a valuable step in creating a legitimate business.

But here’s a little twist: while you might not be getting paid in cash, you’re gaining something priceless – experience and credibility.

Our own journey in London was a springboard for us. We started with two simple desires: to spend time with pets (we missed having our own furry friends) and to explore new neighbourhoods.

 

TrustedHousesitters was our gateway to amazing adventures, connections with wonderful pets and people, and it helped us build the reputation we needed to eventually charge for our services.

By offering your house sitting services in any form, you’re building a solid foundation for your future house sitting business. Whether you’re setting up a pet care business in your locality or planning to travel for house sits, gaining a diverse range of experiences is key.

And here’s a Professional House Sitter Tip: If you’re focusing on pet care in your local area, it’s often easier to start charging right away. Many pro house sitters use a hybrid model: they commit to longer ‘free’ sits through platforms like TrustedHousesitters for the experience, but charge for shorter, local stays.

 

Collect References

No matter where you sit, always ask for references or testimonials after each assignment. This is crucial for validating your services. Capture those special moments (with permission, of course) and build a portfolio that showcases your reliability and love for pets. Whether it’s through a personal website, blog, or digital storytelling tools like Adobe Spark, a well-crafted portfolio is your ticket to standing out in the House Sitting Services Marketing sphere.

 

 

Step 2: Create an Online Presence

In today’s digital age, having an online presence is a game-changer, especially if you’re keen on expanding your house sitting services beyond your local neighbourhood.

Now, I know what you might be thinking – do I really need a website or a blog? While it’s not mandatory, especially if you’re thriving on word-of-mouth in your community, having a digital space of your own can significantly boost your reach and credibility. And trust me, this becomes increasingly important if you plan to travel and house sit in different locations.

Your online presence, whether it’s a blog like ours, a website, or even a digital showcase, should highlight a few key things:

  • Your services: Be clear about what you offer.
  • Your experience: Show off those testimonials and references.
  • Contact information: Make it easy for potential clients to reach you.
  • Fees: This is crucial. As a pet owner myself, I appreciate transparency in pricing.

 

If social media is your thing, platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube are incredible for promoting your services. The key here is to be authentic and true to your style.

Remember, you can’t sell a secret, so talking about your services is a must to grow your house sitting business.

Joining house sitting sites, both free and paid, like TrustedHousesitters and Rover, can also significantly enhance your digital footprint. It’s all about getting your name out there in the world of house sitting opportunities.

There is a comprehensive list of sites and services featured in our training – grab it for just $2.50 here!

 

13 things house and pet sitters much know

 

Step 3: Set Your Rates

Let’s talk money – setting your rates is a crucial part of professionalising your house sitting services. Research is key here. Understand what other house sitters in your area are charging and set competitive rates. As of 2025, here’s a little insight into the current house sitting rates 2025:

  • In major UK cities like London, rates by independent providers range from £40 to £65 per night. This will include the routine and walks you’ve agreed upon with the owner based on the pet’s needs.
  • If you are using a third party site like Rover, you may need to charge more to accommodate for the commission they will take; but the upside is that a matching platform can give you exposure to new clients, especially early on in your business. So, you’ll probably need to charge from £50 (more in bigger cities).
  • Don’t forget you can always ‘package’ services to be more attractive to prospective clients. You package might include arriving early, staying late, special care etc.

These rates are just a guideline and can vary based on your location, experience, and the services you offer.

Create a Pricing Structure

Develop a clear pricing structure considering location, duration, and additional services like pet care or gardening. If you’re based in one place, consider offering packages tailored to different needs – basic house sitting, house sitting with pet care, drop-in day visits, dog walking, etc. But remember, don’t overcommit. Balancing your ethics with income is crucial, especially when a living soul (like a pet) is involved.

For those travelling, consider offering daily or nightly rates, long-term discounted rates, and rates for additional services. Your financial goals should dictate your pricing strategy – plan backwards from your desired income to ensure sustainability and profitability in your house sitting business.

Important to note: if you are turning house sitting into a business, manage home owners expectations up front. Share your fees, own your worth.

Great tips and more info here :)

 

 

Step 4: Market Your Services

As you step into the world of professional house sitting, let’s dive into one of the most crucial aspects – House Sitting Services Marketing. I’ve seen some incredible networking by pro house and pet sitters, and here are a few ideas to get you started:

  • Networking: The good old-fashioned in-person approach works wonders, especially if you’re focusing locally. Attend community events, join local groups, and spread the word about your services.
  • Word of Mouth: It’s a powerful tool! Encourage satisfied clients to refer you to their friends and family.
  • Online Advertising: If your business is mainly local, consider using online advertising platforms like Facebook ads or Google ads to target potential clients in your area.

Creative marketing doesn’t have to be expensive. Simple tactics like putting up posters at local dog parks or distributing flyers can effectively capture your target market.

For those targeting international house sits, your online presence becomes even more vital. Engage in community groups, especially in the areas you’re interested in, like Los Angeles or other major cities. Be an active participant in house sitting and digital nomad groups. Share valuable insights and tips, and occasionally let others know about your services and availability.

✨Our podcast guests, Kate and Dave, have been house sitting long term for over nine years and they shared some amazing advice for how and where to find sits. Here’s what they said:

 

Step 5: Communicate Clearly with Clients

Clear communication is key in any business, and the house sitting business is no exception. Setting and agreeing on clear expectations upfront is essential.

This includes discussing your services, rates, and any additional charges. Draft a house sitting agreement outlining the terms and conditions, responsibilities, and payment details. This will not only professionalize your services but also protect both you and the homeowner.

Remember, not everyone will be comfortable paying for house sitting services, and that’s okay. Focus on clients who value and are willing to pay for your services. As in any line of work, owning your worth is crucial.

 

 

Step 6: Provide Excellent Service

This step is non-negotiable, whether you’re sitting for free or transitioning to paid services. Treating every assignment with professionalism and respect is paramount. Go the extra mile – leave the house cleaner than you found it, provide regular updates on pets, and show genuine care and attention.

In our own experience as sitters, we’ve seen how going above and beyond sets you apart and leads to repeat invitations, even when you start charging. Remember, successful House Sitting Opportunities rely heavily on trust and reliability. Your dedication to providing top-notch service will reflect in your reputation and client satisfaction.

 

Step 7: Review and Adjust

One of the best practices in running a successful house sitting business is regularly reviewing and adjusting your approach. This is crucial for staying current with the House Sitting Opportunities in 2025. Evaluate your business’s progress periodically and assess whether you’re meeting your income goals. You might find that your rates need adjusting, or perhaps there’s room to expand your services.

This ongoing review process also involves keeping up with the latest trends and demands in the house sitting market. For example, as we move into 2025, staying informed about the evolving needs of homeowners and adapting your services accordingly can make a significant difference.

 

Step 8: Manage Your Finances

Now, onto the nitty-gritty of finances. As your house sitting transitions from a casual arrangement to a more structured business, keeping accurate records of your earnings and expenses becomes vital.

If it’s within your means, consider consulting a financial planner or accountant. They can provide invaluable advice, ensuring your business’s financial health and helping you navigate tax implications.

A crucial part of financial management is setting aside a portion of your earnings for taxes. Since you’re not a traditional employee, this aspect of financial planning is something you’ll need to handle proactively. Remember, investing in your business, whether it’s in marketing, professional development, or other areas, is part of fostering growth and sustainability.

 

 

Step 9: Insurance and Professional Cover

As a professional house sitter, it’s wise to consider getting professional cover and insurance. This aspect is particularly important in the UK, where many house sitters invest in a DBS check (a police background check) and personal indemnity insurance. If you’re offering pet care services, getting pet first aid certifications can also boost your credibility.

The need for professional cover can vary depending on where you’re operating or the types of services you’re offering. But as a rule of thumb, it’s always better to be prepared and covered. This not only provides peace of mind for you but also for your clients, who are entrusting you with their homes and beloved pets.

 

Embracing the Journey Ahead

As you embark on this journey to becoming a professional house sitter, remember that every step, every sit, and every connection you make is a part of your growth. The world of House Sitting Opportunities is dynamic and full of potential. With the right approach and a bit of savvy, you can turn this passion into a profitable and fulfilling career.

Expand Your Horizons

In 2025, the scope for house sitting has widened significantly. We’re seeing more people than ever opening their homes to house sitters, not just for pet care but for the peace of mind that comes with having a trusted person looking after their property. This increase in demand is a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to establish themselves in the house sitting business.

 

Stay Informed and Adaptive

The key to success in this industry is staying informed and adaptive. Keep up with the latest trends in house sitting, be it new platforms, changing homeowner preferences, or evolving House Sitting Rates 2025. Being adaptable also means being open to opportunities in different locations, types of homes, and pet care requirements.

 

Building Relationships

Remember, at the heart of house sitting is the relationship you build with homeowners and their pets. Trust, reliability, and communication are the pillars of these relationships. Your ability to connect with homeowners and understand their needs will set you apart in the world of House Sitting Services Marketing.

 

Leverage Technology

In this digital age, leveraging technology can give you a significant advantage. Whether it’s managing bookings, promoting your services, or staying connected with clients, technology can streamline your operations and enhance your efficiency. Don’t shy away from using digital tools and platforms that can elevate your business.

 

Cultivating a Growth Mindset

Lastly, cultivating a growth mindset is crucial. See every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow. Whether it’s dealing with an unexpected situation during a sit or learning new ways to market your services, approach these experiences with a positive and growth-oriented mindset.

 

Wrapping It Up

As we wrap up this Paid House Sitting Guide 2025, remember that building a successful house sitting business takes time, patience, and persistence. Keep honing your skills, delivering quality service, and effectively marketing your services. Soon, you’ll find yourself reaping the rewards of your hard work – the freedom to work on your terms, spending time with adorable pets, and exploring new places.

Stay connected with our community for more tips, advice, and shared experiences. We’re all in this exciting journey together!

 

Top links:

  1. Subscribe for more inspiration on YouTube: Travel Live Learn
  2. FREE TRAINING – 4 part email series House Sitting 101 – get yours here!
  3. Get amongst our travel community on Facebook: here

 

Questions or comments? Other advice to share? Let us know – drop us a line below.

 

 

 

 

TLL Featured on The Offbeat Life Podcast!

TLL Featured on The Offbeat Life Podcast!

We’re so excited to share this – TLL featured on The Offbeat Life podcast! I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with the lovely Debbie Archangeles, founder of The Offbeat Life for a chat on her popular podcast. Guests on The Offbeat Life share similar values to Cooper and I. They seek ways to bring more global experiences into their lives, weaving work, travel and lifestyle into an immersion of other cultures.

In this episode, Debbie and I talk about ways to take your work on the road. We highlight great tips for anyone dreaming of an ‘offbeat life’ adventure! In particular, becoming a digital nomad, remote worker or expat abroad.

How can you travel longer, live and work from anywhere?

Have a listen to Cooper’s and my story, hopefully we can share advice that motivates you to take the leap!

Click below to listen on Spotify, or listen directly here. Alternatively, you can listen on iTunes here.

 

Extended podcast interview: How to avoid the top mistakes newbie house sitters make!

We talk a lot about house sitting on this site and on our YouTube channel. Much of the advice we share is based on our own experiences, but also on the conversation that comes out of our Facebook Group of over 17,000+ travel-curious community.

Get your FREE 4-part email series, House Sitting 101 training here!

Debbie and I had a great chat about house sitting too.

Why?

Because house sitting is a fantastic enabler of a freedom filled lifestyle that suits remote workers and digital nomads to a T! This sentiment is everything that inspires our own podcast, Freedom and Four Paws

In our Offbeat Life chat, I cover the top mistakes newbie house sitters make – find out how to avoid them, listen on:

 

Alternatively, you can listen directly on Spotify here, or on iTunes here.

 

Questions or comments? Let us know below :)

 

 

 

 

 

48 Hours in Whitstable: Oysters, Art, and the Allure of the Sea

48 Hours in Whitstable: Oysters, Art, and the Allure of the Sea

What can we say, it’s worth spending 48 hours in Whitstable, Kent! :)

Stepping off the train, we were greeted by the radiant sun shining over Whitstable, a picturesque seaside town on the coast of Kent in Southern England. We had been here once before, and it was so nice to be able to return! Just an hour’s train ride from London, we were eager to dive back into the wonders of this renowned fishing town, adorned with pastel-coloured fishing cottages, expansive pebbled beaches, and an array of quirky shops.

Every corner of Whitstable whispered tales of its rich maritime heritage, a legacy that stretches back to Roman times.

Take a look:

 

The Oyster Experience

The town’s pride in its oyster farming is palpable, and we learned of the annual Whitstable Oyster Festival, a grand celebration complete with parades, performances, and, naturally, oyster-eating competitions. Tasting the famed Whitstable oysters was the crowning jewel. The taste was a harmonious blend of saline, a touch of saltiness, complemented by a creamy sweetness. One was simply not enough.

 

Artistic Flair and Coastal Pubs

Our stroll down Harbour Street was nothing short of enchanting. The street, alive with energy, was a tapestry of quirky boutiques, unique shops, and a delightful mix of colourful weatherboard houses, historic edifices, and charming cottages. Our exploration led us to the intriguing street art by Catman, Whitstable’s answer to Banksy. For those in search of a unique coastal pub experience, “Neppies” or Old Neptunes is the place to be.

 

A Culinary Finale

As our 48 hours neared its end, we decided to indulge in the town’s best fish and chips at Ossie’s. The generous servings and the golden, flaky fish were the perfect culmination to our Whitstable adventure. Sitting on the beach, watching the sun dip below the horizon and the waves gently caress the shore, we reflected on our time in Whitstable.

 

A town that seamlessly marries its rich history with modern allure. If the Kent Coast is on your radar, Whitstable is a must-visit. A town that’s not just picturesque but also dog-friendly. And remember, the oysters are a must-try!

 

 

Best Beaches in Ibiza + Unforgettable Boat Tours: A 2024 Guide

Best Beaches in Ibiza + Unforgettable Boat Tours: A 2024 Guide

Ibiza, an island renowned for its vibrant nightlife, stunning beaches, and rich history, has always been a top destination for travellers. But there’s a unique way to experience the island’s magic that many might overlook: boat tours. We recently embarked on such a journey, and our experience was nothing short of magical.

 

Setting Sail in Ibiza

The moment we set sail, the atmosphere was electric. The Mediterranean’s crystal-clear waters stretched endlessly, with the sun casting a shimmering trail across the waves. The boat was filled with an enthusiastic crowd, all eager to experience Ibiza’s magic. Laughter, dancing, and the clinking of glasses set the tone for the day.

One of the boat’s standout features was a slide that plunged directly into the refreshing waters of the Mediterranean. Imagine the thrill of diving into the sapphire sea right off the deck of a party boat. It’s an experience that’s hard to replicate.
 

Discovering Hidden Gems

The boat tour wasn’t just about partying and enjoying the sea. It was also an opportunity to explore parts of the island that aren’t easily accessible by land. The stunning rock formations, hidden coves, and pristine beaches were a sight to behold.

One of the highlights of our journey was a visit to Cala Bassa Beach. Known for its luxe beach clubs, outstanding DJs, cozy sunbeds, and top-notch restaurants, Cala Bassa is a must-visit. The beach’s atmosphere was described as vibrant, fun, and electric. It’s a place that truly needs to be seen to be believed.

During our time at Cala Bassa, I had a chance to chat with a German lady who visits Ibiza every season for work. We both agreed that the island’s magic is undeniable. The beach, with its golden sands and azure waters, was a testament to Ibiza’s natural beauty.

 

A Day to Remember

The boat cruise lasted for about five to six hours, covering some of the most popular beaches around Ibiza. It’s the best way to see the island! The experience was enhanced by the company of new friends, all excited to explore Ibiza’s hidden treasures. And of course, topped off by the magical Ibiza sunset.

For anyone planning a trip to Ibiza, we have this important piece of advice: don’t miss out on a boat cruise. It offers a unique perspective of the island, allowing travellers to discover spots you wouldn’t necessarily see otherwise.

Ibiza is more than just parties and nightlife. It’s an island filled with natural wonders, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences. A boat tour is a perfect way to immerse oneself in its magic. So, the next time you find yourself in Ibiza, set sail and let the island’s beauty captivate you.
 
 

Furnish a flat FAST in England & how to rent guide!

Furnish a flat FAST in England & how to rent guide!

With just two days to move in before we needed to start working, we had no choice but to furnish a flat FAST in England! We landed in the UK to live for a third time recently. But, with one difference – we had a pet in tow. Unfortunately, in our experience we didn’t find that securing a place to live with a dog was as straightforward as we’d hoped.

But, eventually we scored the right place at the right time. It came unfurnished, and it’s the first time we’ve ever chosen to furnish from scratch!

 

Furnishing a flat fast in England

Since we had the opportunity to design our own space, we put together a checklist of key pieces we needed:

  1. A double desk or two minimalist desks for working from home
  2. Office chairs that prevent RSI and back problems
  3. Some sort of compact dining table and chairs
  4. Sofa, TV, coffee table and TV unit (could be inexpensive and compact)
  5. Bed and [comfortable!] mattress
  6. Microwave, kettle, toaster (as these were not already included in the kitchen)

 

We do not have transport so needed to rely on some conveniences of England in terms of furnishing a flat fast.

These included:

  • Walkable options e.g. cheap stores like Poundland or Primark
  • Next day delivery services – will share our favourites below
  • Vintage / second hand / outlet stores we can reach on foot, as well as Facebook Marketplace if we could access on foot.

 

Our UK flat walkthrough: the reveal!

Find out how we furnished our flat fast in 48 hours without transport: 

 

Our top 7 resources for furnishing a flat quickly and on a budget

A few of the places we mentioned in the video included:

  1. Argos – next day delivery available at a timeslot you choose
  2. Amazon – next day delivery available but sometimes difficult to track
  3. B&M – nice quality homewares at a great price
  4. Primark – seems to have a renewed focus on ‘home’ since we last lived in the UK; nice items that are cheap
  5. Poundland – an awesome resource for gathering all the usual cleaning and household products that we usually take for granted because things like detergent are usually ‘just there’!
  6. Vintage or charity stores e.g. British Heart Foundation, Cancer Research UK, Oxfam, Marie Curie shops
  7. Furniture outlets

 

 

How to rent in England: tips for first-timers

We’ve rented five properties in eight years (across three different stints) in England. Some of these were private rentals found on Gumtree. Others were via real estate agencies. I wouldn’t say the task of finding a flat ever gets easier. However, if you’re a foreigner (expat) and you haven’t got a lot of [recent] history in the destination, you may face an administrative nightmare.

My recommendation is that you prepare. Have as much of the following information to hand as possible. This will mean you can jump on applications quickly and successfully:

  1. A UK phone number/SIM
  2. Have a temporary address handy, as you’re usually asked where you’re staying ‘now’
  3. Proof of who you are (e.g. passport, drivers licence, bank statements)
  4. Your UK National Insurance Number if you have it already
  5. Reference information (either pre-prepared written references and/or details of recent rental property agents who can attest to you being a good tenant)
  6. Evidence of employment, particularly recent payslips and/or a contract or something official validating your income will mean far less hassle trying to secure a rental agreement
  7. Alternatively, details of a guarantor may also be accepted
  8. A UK bank account* – particularly so you can have funds ready to transfer as your deposit and first few weeks’ rent. Waiting for funds to transfer internationally is possible, but will take extra days which may mean you are held up on your plans to sign a contract or move in.

The Government has published some guidance here that may help you as a renter.

InterNations has also posted useful content for expats here. And we love this super helpful post by the Introverted Expat.

*A note on UK bank accounts:

If you are new to the country, this can be a sticky point. Many banks will ask for an address to set up a bank account, but you almost need a bank account to secure a residential address! HSBC is known to support expats in England, although it’s my understanding that they charge a hefty fee for the privilege. Barclays let us set up an account initially when we first arrived, but I believe Santander is ok too.

The best way to seek help is to jump on an expat page on Facebook (e.g. ‘Aussies in London’) and ask for recent experience and advice. It’s a resource we wish we had have had when we first arrived in 2010!

 

A final note on renting a flat: furnished or unfurnished

If you’re turning up to the UK to live and work but you don’t have a job yet, or a pet, I’d advise not rushing into the rental process. Book an Airbnb to stay in for a few weeks, or a non-committal flat share. Find your feet, get a job, discover an area or two you love; get your bank account sorted and then seek an official residence.

We LOVE the UK but you need to find “your place” otherwise your experience might be less than happy which would be a huge shame. You’re far better off if you can live within an easy commute of where you work, and designing your life to optimise your experience abroad.

If you can give yourself some space and time to do that, definitely take advantage of it. We’ve learnt the hard way, and this is what I’d do differently if we had our time over again. Also don’t buy into the scaremongering around not being able to find a place to live. You will be ok. Plan ahead, ask questions and keep your cool. You’ve got this :)

 

Do you have additional advice to add, or a question? Let us know in the comments below.