Are you about to embark on your first-ever travel experience? Feeling a bit overwhelmed by the whole idea? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Fortunately, a little knowledge can go a long way, especially when you’re just starting out.
Planning and Packing
Travel Light, Travel Right
- If you’re unsure whether you need something, chances are you don’t.
- Even if you think you need it, you probably don’t.
- Take more money than you think you’ll need.
- Pack extra underwear and fewer pairs of shoes.
- Don’t forget to bring toilet paper – you never know when you’ll need it.
- A small, inexpensive corkscrew can make you a hero.
- Avoid bringing clothes that can’t be easily washed in a hostel laundry room.
- Remember, your airline’s baggage allowance is a limit, not a challenge.
- Opt for a single all-in-one product like shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel.
- In places where showers and laundry facilities are scarce, a strong deodorant can make a huge difference.
- If you can’t effortlessly carry your luggage up a flight of stairs by yourself, it’s too heavy. Refer back to hints 1, 2, and 3.
- Ensure your passport has enough pages and is valid for at least six months beyond your trip. Some countries require entire passport pages for visas.
- A little bit of planning is good, especially when it comes to finding accommodation in Western Europe during peak season.
- However, don’t over-plan. Some of the best experiences happen spontaneously, and meticulous itineraries can hinder that.
- Learn a few basic phrases in the local language. Simple words like “please,” “thank you,” and “sorry” can take you a long way in daily interactions.
- Make digital copies of your passport and driver’s license, storing them securely online for easy access. It’s also wise to carry a printed copy.
- Keep a few passport photos with you as they are often required when applying for visas.
- Remember the traveler’s trifecta: aspirin, Band-Aids, and Imodium for unexpected health issues.
- And yes, contraceptives are not the most foolish idea in the world.
- Above all, travel insurance can be a lifesaver – I can personally vouch for that, as can several friends.
In Transit
Smooth Sailing through Airports
- Arrive at the airport early. Airports can be tedious, but missing your flight is much worse.
- Jokes about security may seem funny, but spending time in jail is far from amusing.
- Airport food is not only expensive but also often far from enjoyable. Eat before you get there.
- It can be fun to have a few drinks on the plane, but trust me, being hungover mid-flight is dreadful.
- Don’t forget to bring earplugs – they can be a traveler’s best friend.
- An eye mask may make you look a little silly, but it’s worth it for a good night’s sleep.
- Mild sleeping pills are a valuable asset for when your seatmate won’t stop talking.
- Start practicing eating with plastic utensils, elbows tucked in, and knees bumping the table – it’s a vital skill for extended flights. You can even practice by sitting in a cardboard box during your next meal.
- Carry something that can keep you entertained for hours – a novel, playing cards, an iPad, or even a ball of twine.
- Set your watch to your destination’s timezone as soon as you board the plane. Use that time to decide when to sleep; it may help with jetlag.
- Take short walks during the flight to improve circulation and alleviate the monotony of long-haul travel.
- After spending 20 hours in planes and airports, you’ll appreciate the power of toothpaste like never before.
- When dealing with border officials, answer questions truthfully but avoid volunteering unnecessary information.
- Pay attention to immigration signs. If they prohibit photography or phone usage, follow the rules. Border guards are often grumpy enough without additional reasons to be irritated.
- Opt for distinctive luggage. You’d be surprised how many black suitcases there are on the conveyor belt.
- Avoid exchanging all your money at the airport – you’ll usually get a better rate in town.
- Carry a spare set of underwear in your carry-on. It will prove to be a wise decision if the airline misplaces your checked bags.
At Your Destination
Embrace the Culture, Embrace the Adventure
- Politeness goes a long way, no matter where you are.
- And a smile? It can work wonders.
- If someone doesn’t speak your language, remember, it’s your problem, not theirs.
- Speaking louder won’t help if you don’t share a common language. Remember, being deaf isn’t the same as not understanding you.
- Keep an eye out for scams and dangers, but don’t let them overshadow your trip. Most people you encounter are not out to harm you.
- Opening your heart and mind doesn’t require opening your wallet.
- Step out of your comfort zone – try new foods, drinks, and experiences you wouldn’t usually consider.
- Leave the fanny packs at home; they’re far from practical.
- Money belts don’t offer much improvement, but if you decide to use one, avoid constantly diving into it. Hidden valuables won’t stay hidden if you keep drawing attention to them.
- Remember, things will be different from what you’re accustomed to at home – that’s the beauty of traveling.
- Public transportation can be a mixed bag – sometimes efficient and affordable, other times a frustrating experience.
- Don’t stress if you miss your intended public transport. There’s always another bus or train around the corner. And if you don’t have a strict itinerary, it won’t disrupt your plans too much.
- Interact with locals. If you wanted to hang out with people just like yourself, you could have stayed home and visited the local mall.
- Keep a hidden emergency stash of cash and guard your passport like it’s the most precious thing on earth. Losing it, although not the end of the world, can be an incredible hassle.
- Always carry some small change. Many taxi drivers and street vendors struggle to provide change for larger notes, and having it ready will save time and frustration.
- Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. We learn more from failures than successes.
- Having flip-flops for hostel showers is highly recommended.
- Avoid being the inconsiderate roommate who stumbles back to the dorm in a drunken state, turning on the lights and waking up everyone else. Trust me, you don’t want to experience the morning consequences.
- And if your friends back home haven’t seen your latest Instagram post within the last hour, it’s perfectly fine.
- Take a moment to relax and experience the local atmosphere. Some of the most cherished memories come from simply sitting in a cafe or on a park bench, observing daily life.
- When searching for a place to eat, choose establishments where you don’t see many people who look like you. Extra points if it’s not in the guidebook and the menu isn’t in your language – these places usually offer better, more affordable food, and the experience will be memorable. Trust me on this one.
- At times, things may become challenging, but hang in there. The tough moments will fade away, while the amazing memories will last forever.
Got some more valuable tips for first-time travelers? Share them below!