Travelling internationally can be exciting! The thrill of exploring new places, meeting people, and experiencing different cultures is unmatched. But, to make sure everything goes well and you stay safe, there are some important things you need to avoid doing.
7 things every traveller should avoid on an international trip to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience:
1. Don’t Forget to Double-Check Your Passport and Visa
You can’t travel far without a passport, right? Imagine arriving at the airport only to find out your passport has expired. Worse, you might not have the right visa for your destination.
Pro Tip:
- Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date.
- Check the visa requirements for the country you are visiting (some countries require you to apply for a visa before you travel).
- Always keep your passport in a safe, easily accessible place (like a backpack or a neck pouch).
2. Avoid Packing Too Much
When you’re packing for an international trip, it’s tempting to take everything, right? But lugging heavy luggage or carrying unnecessary items can turn into a big stressor.
Pro Tip:
- Pack light and only take what you really need. Think of essentials like clothes, toiletries, phone chargers, and your travel documents.
- Use packing cubes to organize and maximize space. You can even roll clothes to save room.
- Leave space for souvenirs, if you plan on buying any.
3. Don’t Exchange Money at the Airport
Airports can be super convenient for exchanging currency, but they are usually the worst places to get a good rate. You’ll often end up paying more and receiving less money.
Pro Tip:
- Exchange money at local banks or trusted money exchange offices, where the rates are better.
- Use an ATM at your destination to get local currency, but avoid using airport ATMs if possible (they may charge high fees).
- Consider using a credit or debit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. Check with your bank before you leave.
ALSO READ: HOW TO BUILD YOUR TRAVEL HISTORY: For First-Time Travellers
4. Avoid Ignoring Local Customs and Laws
Every country has its own rules, traditions, and behaviors that may be very different from what you’re used to. Not knowing these can get you into trouble, even if you don’t mean any harm.
Pro Tip:
- Before you travel, do a little research on the local customs, culture, and laws. Things like tipping, dress codes, or how to greet people can vary.
- Stay respectful and open-minded when interacting with locals. If you’re unsure about something, it’s okay to ask politely.
- Familiarize yourself with any “weird” laws that might surprise you, like rules about chewing gum, drinking alcohol in public, or the use of certain medications.
5. Don’t Rely Too Much on Public Wi-Fi
It’s easy to get comfortable using free public Wi-Fi in cafes, airports, or hotels, but do you know that hackers love to lurk on unprotected networks?
Pro Tip:
- Avoid logging into sensitive accounts (like online banking) while connected to public Wi-Fi.
- Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for secure browsing. A VPN encrypts your internet connection, making it harder for anyone to spy on you.
6. Don’t Over-Schedule
It’s tempting to try to fit in as many activities as possible when travelling. But rushing from one tourist spot to another can leave you exhausted and not really enjoying your trip.
Pro Tip:
- Plan your itinerary with a balance between sightseeing and relaxation. Leave some time for unplanned adventures, or simply to rest.
- Prioritize what you really want to do, and don’t feel pressured to “check off” every attraction.
- Remember, slow travel can lead to more memorable experiences.
7. Avoid Not Having Travel Insurance
Life can be unpredictable, and so can travel. Whether it’s lost luggage, missed flights, or even medical emergencies, not having travel insurance can leave you in a tough situation.
Pro Tip:
- Always get travel insurance before you leave. It’s not as expensive as you might think, and it can save you a lot of trouble.
- Look for a plan that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and other unexpected travel hiccups.
Travelling internationally can be the trip of a lifetime! But keeping these tips in mind will ensure you have a smooth and stress-free experience — check your documents, pack light, respect local customs, stay secure online, avoid over-scheduling, and always be prepared with travel insurance.
With these key steps in place, you can focus on what really matters — immersing yourself in new experiences, discovering unique cultures, and creating memories that will last forever.
Happy Travels!
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