Traveling is one of the most exciting things to experience, no matter your age. There are plenty of things to explore, whether in the U.S. or abroad.
However, as a first-time traveler, you might want to get some tips first.
This is because while traveling allows you to explore, often it is in territories unknown to you – but don’t let this put you off.
All you need is some know-how, and you will be ready to pack your luggage and head on out into the big world.
If you are thinking of traveling, then check out these 10 travel tips beginners need to know about (see also “How To Travel Around The USA For Cheap“).
1. Start By Choosing An Easy Destination
If you are traveling alone, then you may want to choose a destination that you find easy to navigate. For example, a place that is English-speaking, or has an easy-to-follow public transport network.
However, this is not a hard and fast rule. Everyone has varying degrees of feeling comfortable, so if you want to take that once-in-a-lifetime trip to Japan, then do it.
Just remember to clue yourself up on the basics of the language first.
2. Pack Your Luggage Light
It is easy to find yourself packing everything you might need for the trip. However, it is better to limit what you pack.
This is because you will want to carry light luggage with you, rather than something heavy.
It also means extra room for souvenirs. If you are planning to make the most of your trip by traveling to different places, then it may be worth considering using a backpack only.
Only take a set amount of clothes and underwear. Most places will have a laundry facility, or you can handwash clothes if need be.
3. Pack The Right Gear
Another thing to think about is the gear you take. You might want to forgo the expensive Macbook and instead use a cheap tablet.
This way you can keep in touch with family and friends, share travel photos, and not worry about the device becoming scratched.
You may also want to have a battery pack in case of emergencies, such as your cell phone running out of battery. Also think about taking a few band-aids too, as well as hand sanitizer, a packet of tissues, and so on.
4. Be Smart With Safety
While you should not be afraid of traveling, you will want to be aware of your safety. Being smart and understanding where you shouldn’t be wandering alone at night is a good way to stay safe.
You may also want to avoid wearing heavily branded clothes in case this attracts people to you. For example, leave the Gucci bag at home (see also “Most Useful Travel Gadgets You Shouldn’t Leave Home Without“).
The less attention you can bring to yourself, the more you will be able to relax.
Always find out how you can get help in the country you are in, just in case you need it.
5. Beware Of Thieves
Another thing to be aware of when it comes to safety is thieves. No matter where you travel to, thieves will likely be present. They will look for opportunities to steal.
For this reason, always keep your bag to the front of your body rather than the back, and put an arm over it.
Also never have your cell phone hanging out of your pocket, and that includes money or personal documents like your passport too.
6. Plan How To Stay In Contact
Just because you are going on a trip does not mean you have to also go AWOL. Let friends or family know that you have arrived safely and where you are.
This does not mean posting it on social media – instead, let people know the address you are staying at and that you are safe.
You can also stay in contact for fun too, such as by sharing pictures and general travel updates.
7. Budget The Trip
Before you make any financial decisions, plan what your budget will be.
This includes travel costs, hotel and hostels, food spending, activity spending, and the extra money you will need for unplanned situations and souvenirs.
It is important that you have extra physical money than you might need, however, this does not mean going overboard.
You may also want to have a credit card that allows you to spend money in a different country.
Often it is a much safer way to use money abroad, though you will need physical money too.
8. Travel When It’s Off-Season
If you want to travel on a budget, then go when it is off-season. You may find that the return flight costs less, as do the hotels and activities.
It may even be less busy, which some people prefer. If you cannot travel during the off-season, then try and find the best deals possible during the peak season to make your money go further.
9. Be Flexible With Time
While you will want to make a plan of where you are staying and things you want to see, make sure you can be flexible with your time also.
This is because sometimes the unexpected happens – for example, you meet new friends, or you come across extra activities that you want to try.
It can make a trip more fun if you take the time to be flexible with your plans.
10. Enjoy The Trip
Most of all, enjoy the trip. You are planning to go traveling for a reason, so remember to enjoy your time away exploring something new.
Sometimes not everything goes to plan, and this is very normal. Instead, embrace any changes made and relax. You will arrive back home with stories to tell and lots of pictures to share.
Final Thoughts
Traveling should be a very fun experience, and that often means being able to relax. Having the ability to relax comes from preparing yourself for the trip in the first place.
So long as you consider the 10 travel tips for beginners above, no doubt you will have a wonderful vacation.
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