If you’re planning your first trip abroad, this article can help you come up with destination ideas, tips and assist you in organizing any necessary documentation. Yes, your first trip abroad can come with a bit of stress, but with proper planning it’ll likely be a breeze.
Make sure you have your passport ready and check if a visa is required.
The first of all travel tips is that you should have a visa and passport ready before your departure. If you do not have a passport or if it has expired, remember that the application process can take a long time and several weeks to complete, so do not try to apply at the last minute before departure time. Before you start booking flights and places to stay, make sure your passport has been processed well in advance.
Also, depending on the length of your stay and the country you are in, you may need a visa. A visa is a document issued by a country that gives you permission to travel there. The official website of the destination country will tell you how to apply for the visa. Remember to do it well in advance.
Digital Copies of Travel-Related Documents
Uncertainty can happen at any point in time. Ensure that you have digital access to all of your important documents. In case you lose your wallet or bag, you have copies of the documents.
Research the country, the program options, rules and traditions, and the language.
When creating your plans for your first time abroad, you should do a lot of research on the destination. You can find out what the country is like by going to bulletin boards or social networking groups and talking to other people who have already been there.
Also, find out if you should exchange currency before you travel, what the local norms and traditions are to get a feel for the culture, and perhaps learn some basics of the language(s) spoken there. It always helps to know how to say “hello”, “goodbye”, “thank you” and “where’s the bathroom?” Fortunately, there are now apps that can help you easily translate languages, such as the Google Translate application. Always try to accept the culture of others as much as possible.
Book in Advance
Decide on a final travel date and book the tickets well in advance to get better deals. Be mindful when booking accommodation. You should look for options that are either in or near the city/locations that you plan to see.
Address money matters
Before you set off for your far flung destination, you will need to notify your bank to let them know that you are traveling. That way, your bank doesn’t suspect fraud when they see your card is suddenly being used at a market in Thailand.
Depending on your destination, you may not have easy access to ATMs. Some countries that run on largely cash economies might not even have card readers at most restaurants or businesses. If this is the case, be sure to carry enough money on you to cover your expenses on a day out. Some travelers store larger sums of money in a money belt for safety.
Plan the Finances Carefully
As boring a budget may sound but careful planning of the finances is imperative while traveling. When budgeting your trip, take your time and plan carefully. It’s important to be mindful of the preparation costs that involve visas, travel insurance, transportation, etc. Then come upon the actual vacation costs that include accommodation, food, souvenirs, etc. Be completely aware of how much you are planning to end-up spending. Also, consider keeping a budget for the emergencies that may incur under any unforeseen circumstances.
Buy Travel Insurance
Before you land in a foreign land ensure that you have a Travel insurance policy in place. Travel insurance is your companion that offers protection and secures you throughout the trip.
Share Your Travel Itinerary
Do not forget to share your itinerary with your family and friends. If you are on a solo trip, let your hotel staff know where you are heading and by when you will return.