Midlife career changers often consider relocation as part of their career planning. Sometimes they want to move to be closer to family, wonder if they can find a job in a new location, or simply seek new avenues for personal growth. Others experience layoffs and changes in the industry.

Moving can give your career a boost if you plan ahead. In fact, if you’re considering a major career change, moving makes a lot of sense. It’s often easier to reinvent yourself when no one remembers you, especially if you’re making a major change. For example, friends who remember you as a buttoned-down corporate executive may have trouble seeing you as a laid-back life coach.

Unfortunately, many people decide to move before they are ready. They pull out a map, pick a destination that sounds good on the internet, and take off. They often anticipate the biggest expense will be the moving truck. In fact, your biggest expense will involve moving or even moving back if you realize you’ve made a big mistake. Here are some tips to prevent that from happening.

– Do as much research as possible before selling or renting your home. Limit your selections to lifestyle and type of city, rather than state.

– Take several short trips while you are still working at your current jobs. Travel costs may seem high, but you’ll make a wise decision when you’re not under pressure. In the long run, you will save much more than you spend. Visit at least three places before committing.

– Investigate job opportunities in your destination city. Your opportunities and options vary depending on your industry and level. As a general rule of thumb, the higher you are in an organization, the more you need to plan ahead.

– If you are looking for a job or starting your own business, you will need to study the local culture. When I lived in a small town in New Mexico, many newcomers were surprised by the formal and informal customs regarding business and jobs. Some enjoyed exciting opportunities; others got frustrated and left, realizing they were paying a high price to learn.

– Considering starting a portable career, such as an online business. These days you can’t assume that any career field will bring opportunities; even if jobs are available, local culture will influence working conditions.

– If you have saved enough for at least two years of living expenses and would like to travel for a year or so, then consider the time off a gap year. You can always decide not to come back.