Traveling for the first time to another country can be exhilarating as well as a bit stressful. It is never easy to enter a new culture, get lost in a new environment, and deal with such things as language, money, and security. But if you prepare yourself adequately, your first international trip should be as easy and fun as any other trip.
Below are seven tips that are very useful for first-time travelers to make the most of their trip abroad.
Research Your Destination Thoroughly
When planning to travel, spend time researching your destination before you even get on a plane. Acquainting the country’s history, traditions, and tourist destinations will make your trip more enjoyable and prevent you from making mistakes. Check whether there is any local culture or legislation quite different from the one you are from and whether you should avoid any prohibited actions or clothing.
Apart from cultural information, one should also learn about the climate, the seasons to go, and the means of getting around if your destination has extreme weather or different seasons than where you live (for example, monsoon or winter) – dress for it. Getting acquainted with the bus, subway, or taxi routes before you go will make it easier to move around once you get there.
Get Your Documents in Order Early
The first and most important preparation for any international trip is paperwork. This, at the very least, means having a passport that is not expired, but depending on the country you are traveling to, you need a visa or travel permit. Ensure that your passport has at least six months’ validity from the date you plan to leave the country you are visiting.
Besides the passport, it is also advisable to take photocopies of other documents such as ID, visa, insurance, and schedule. It is possible to keep them digital or paper copies in another bag from where you kept your documents. In case something is lost or stolen, these backups will help you avoid a lot of stress.
Understand Foreign Currency and Payment Methods
Dealing with money in a foreign country does take a little work, particularly regarding foreign exchange and currency. Knowing the local currency and its exchange rate for your own currency is important before you travel. There are also applications for the currency exchange which can be downloaded to your device and assist you in the calculation of the price and prevention of the overspending.
Most nations have shifted from cash to credit cards and other forms of electronic money. However, it is always advisable to have some local cash, especially for minor expenses or even in remote areas. Inquire from your bank about international charges and inform them about your travel plans to ensure that your card is not deactivated due to suspicion.
Stay Connected with Mobile Services and Wi-Fi
It is important to remain connected with others when traveling abroad because of the need to communicate, to call for directions, and to contact family members and friends back home. Before you leave, check with your mobile service provider to see if they have packages for international roaming that enable you to use your phone while in another country without being charged through the roof. Otherwise, it is possible to buy a SIM card at the arrival for a cheaper price for data and call services.
When browsing the Internet using a Wi-Fi connection in hotels, cafes, or other public places, it is important to know that these networks are open. To enhance your privacy, it is recommended to get a VPN that will ensure your data is encrypted and your activity is concealed. This is especially so if you are required to use important information like banking or personal accounts while abroad. By using VPN, one can surf the Internet anonymously, and this helps in minimizing the risks of cyber criminals, especially when using a public network.
Learn Basic Local Language Phrases
Picking up a few phrases in the local language makes your travels a lot easier and more fun. Although you will find English-speaking people, especially in hotels and restaurants in many tourist destinations, it is always helpful to be able to say ‘hello,’ ‘where is,’ and ‘thank you’ in the language of the country.
It is often said that even if you only know how to say a few words or phrases in the local language, people are usually glad to see you try and may be more willing to assist you. Often, as a result of this, it is possible to have a more fulfilling experience since you are able to communicate with the locals in their own language.
Pack Smart and Light
Newbie travelers are usually guilty of this; they carry their huge suitcases with things they do not need.
Packing smart and light is the best way to avoid stress while traveling. First, create a list of necessary items and pack only clothes that can be worn together. Remember that many places have laundry services, so you don’t have to wear a new outfit every day.
Besides clothes, do not forget about other necessary items like medicines, adapters, and chargers. A small first aid kit and a refillable water bottle are also recommended. Carrying less luggage is not only convenient for mobility but also ensures that valuable items do not get lost or misplaced during the trip.
Stay Aware of Local Customs and Etiquette
Every country has its own rules and traditions, so you should know more about them before you get there. Even something as basic as how one greets another, the dress code, or tipping etiquette may differ from one region to another. For instance, tipping is acceptable in the United States of America but may be viewed as improper or unwelcome in Japan.
This means that respecting local cultures indicates that one is a responsible tourist. If you are in doubt about any cultural practices, watch what other people do or, at least, ask them for recommendations. One way of being polite is to learn and observe different cultures. This would prevent you from offending the other party and, at the same time, make a good impression on them.