A Nomad’s Guide to First Time International Travel

Everyone should have the opportunity to travel at least once in their life, preferably much more than that. Seeing new places expands your mind and opens you up to new experiences.

First time international travel can be stressful. It’s okay to need some pointers.

Are you getting ready for your first international trip, but you’re not totally sure that you’re prepared? I was you once, you’re going to be okay.

Don’t stress, I’ve got you covered. Stay tuned for my top tips for first-time travelers.

Top Tips for First Time International Travel

Start with the basics. Getting all of these things down will ease a lot of your worries.

1. Passport Drama

If you don’t have your passport yet, make sure you get it well ahead of time. It’s always better to be prepared too early than to be rushing around at the last minute because you’re unable to enter your destination country.

Once you’re in your destination country, always know where your passport is. My suggestion? Do one of two things.

1. Keep your passport on you at all times. Strap it to yourself if you must. This is a crucial document and you need it.
2. Keep your passport in a hotel or hostel safe or lockbox.

Your passport is your legal identification when you’re out of your home country. Don’t go messing around with it!

2. Currency Woes

Assuming you plan on spending money in your destination country, you have a few options.

With credit and debit cards, it’s possible that you won’t have to worry about currency exchange at all. That said, it’s best to check and see if you need to alert your bank of your travel plans in advance.

If you want to keep some foreign cash on hand (always a good idea), currency exchange sites in big cities and airports are often the worst places to make the trade. Rather, see if your local bank or credit union is able to exchange your currency.

If you’re already in your destination country, your best bet is going to be ATMs for your financial institution.

3. Staying Plugged In

Did you know that we don’t all use the same plug and socket types for our electronics?

This might pose a problem considering how reliant we are on our phones and computers for directions and communication. Don’t be left in the dark.

Check online and see what kind of plug you’re going to need and pick one up ahead of time so you can save yourself the hassle.

4. Accommodate Me!

Pay special attention to the things you want to see in your destination country when you’re choosing a place to stay, as well as to public transportation in the area.

A lot of places are super walkable, and you might be better off picking a hotel or hostel near your goal locations.

This can sometimes be the most stressful part, especially if you’re not really familiar with the area that you’ll be visiting. Reaching out to some of the best travel agents can help you put your mind at ease with those hard decisions. They know how to handle it.

If you’re looking for luxury and have money to spare, opt for a hotel. If you’re okay with close quarters and you’re interested in meeting new people from all over the world, hostels can be great ways to make friends.

Are You Ready?

Traveling can be stressful, but it’s also fun and fulfilling. Don’t let the planning for first time international travel stop you from taking the trip of a lifetime. Check out the rest of our site for more useful travel tips.

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