This post may earn affiliate income from links and/or review products to help support this site from the companies .

These 6 Tips Will Ensure Your First International Trip Is A Good One

 

If you’re a first-time international traveler, there are a few things you need to know before traveling abroad. The idea of traveling abroad is so exciting that those about to embark on a trip tend to overlook some important things. These six tips will ensure your first international trip is a good one, by outlining the most important things you need to remember.

Research the country you’re visiting to learn about its culture and customs

 

Some spontaneity is good on an international trip. You go, not knowing what to expect, so you’ll be surprised. But not all surprises are good. The culture could be vastly different from the one you’re used to. You don’t know what lies ahead, so research could save the day.

 

Research especially the country’s religious and social customs. You don’t want to be unintentionally disrespectful. Also, keep in mind that not all customs are common in every part of the country so don’t assume everyone subscribes to a given practice.

 

Learn how to say “hello” and “thank you” and some basic phrases. You don’t need to master the language before leaving, but knowing these basics will ensure you can communicate.

 

Pack clothes and other items that are appropriate 

 

You definitely don’t want to pack the wrong clothes to go to a country at the height of winter, or at the height of summer. You don’t want to show up in winter gear in the middle of summer. Make sure you know what the weather will be like by checking a weather report for your destination and pack accordingly.

 

Clothing that is appropriate will also depend on where exactly you will be going. Learn from more experienced travelers at this website how to learn what is appropriate. There are places where certain clothing, such as shorts or short skirts, cannot be worn in certain religious venues.

 

Pack toiletries and other items you know you’ll need. You may not find your favorite shampoo or even basic Tylenol at your destination. Pack a travel-size version of all the things you need most, to avoid having to buy large quantities when you get there. Don’t pack a week’s worth of supplies. Leave room for goodies to take back. Otherwise, you’re going to look like a commercial traveler.

Make sure your passport and other documentation is up to date and valid

 

Your trip could be canceled if you don’t have all the proper documentation or denied at your destination if your passport is about to expire. Check expiration dates and renew your passport if needed.

 

Check with the destination country’s embassy to ensure that your visa or other entry paperwork is valid for as long as you’ll be gone. Some visas expire after a certain amount of time from when they were issued, so make sure not to overstay your welcome in another country.

 

If your passport gets stolen or lost while abroad, having a backup copy of your information at home will save time and effort. You won’t have to wait on the passport office to issue a new one, or worse, be stranded in another country unable to fly back home because you don’t have proper documentation.

 

Bring a universal adapter, in case your electronics don’t work abroad

 

Hotel rooms in some countries are wired differently than in the US, and you’ll need to plug your phone, computer, or other electronics into a different outlet. If you don’t have an adaptor, bring one that works for as many outlets as possible.

 

Expensive equipment like cameras may also require an energy converter, which is a small device used to convert electricity from one voltage to another.

 

Get travel insurance and walk with health insurance documentation

 

Travel insurance may become a lifesaver. You don’t know what will happen, and you could end up with a medical bill in the thousands of dollars. Travel insurance can cover unexpected expenses like these so that you can focus on enjoying yourself. 

 

Bring health insurance information with you as well. You may need to visit a doctor or get any necessary prescriptions filled while abroad, and having health insurance information on hand will speed up the process. The last thing you want is to be stuck in a foreign country without your regular medication. 

 

Stay safe 

 

Your travel destination may look idyllic on the travel poster but don’t be fooled. Do not carry large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry with you. Keep your wallet in the front pocket of your pants or skirt and either has a money belt or keep it underneath your clothes. 

 

Do not leave luggage unattended at any time. Carry as little as possible, especially when traveling to other countries by bus or train. If you must carry a large suitcase, keep it out of public view by either keeping it between you and one other person or behind your back (away from the crowds). Pickpockets tend to frequent public transport.

 

Your first international trip can be a great experience if you plan ahead and do your research. It’s important to know the customs, culture, weather patterns, and language of the country before arrival so that you are prepared for all aspects of travel. We hope these 6 tips have helped you feel more confident in preparing for your own journey abroad.