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The most helpful 26 tips for first time travelers

Learn 26 tips for first time travelers, from how to plan, what to pack, safety tips, and more. With these tricks you'll be so ready to leave home with confidence!

Jan 13, 2024

Preparing for your first trip can be overwhelming, right? While each first time traveler's preferences and each trip are unique, I’ve made a list of 24 handy tricks that I think will be useful for every beginner in the travel world.

There are many important thing to consider before leaving home, so to make it easier I’ve broken them into three categories: 

First time travelers tips for planning

First time travelers tips for packing time, first time travelers tips for the actual trip.

Hopefully you’ll find something useful here, no matter where you are in your travel journey.

1. Invest in good equipment

If you are going to multiple places, a good backpack that fits you well and a good, comfortable pair of shoes will be your two most important investments before you leave home. If you’re going to splurge somewhere, splurge on these two essentials.

2. Purchase travel insurance

Look, no one wants to spend money on travel insurance for international travel . But do it anyway. Trust me on this one.

3. Plan your budget carefully

I highly recommend checking out my article on planning your travel budget , where I go into much greater detail, but a good rule of thumb is to plan your backpacking expenses as carefully as you can, then bring twice as much money as you’ll think you need.

4. Brush up on safety tips

No, you shouldn’t be afraid of exploring the world. But you should be smart about it while you’re traveling. Research safety tips for backpacking and traveling, and then stay aware of your surroundings and keep them front of mind during your trip.

You can start exploring The safest places to travel right now and, as you feel more confindent, keep moving to other destinations.

5. Talk to your bank

Your bank will flag your account if you start spending money in a foreign country with no warning, and trust me, you don’t want to find yourself in a foreign country with no access to your bank account. You also need to talk to your bank and credit card companies about foreign transaction fees. If they’re really high, consider opening an account at a bank such as Charles Schwab, where they charge no foreign transaction fees and reimburse all ATM fees monthly.

6. Consider camping, if possible, to save money

Depending on where you’re going, tent camping may be an option and a huge money saver. Of course, then you’ll have to pack a tent, but it may be worth the savings for you.

7. Do a work exchange program to stay longer

Doing a work exchange might be the cheaper and cooler way to immerse in a trip and it gives you the chance to stay longer at the place and have a unique cultural experience, working and living with locals.  Worldpackers is a great platform to start volunteering as it offers a lot of different types of projects worldwide . Besides, they have a trained team to help you and your host to have a fun and safe experience.

8. Consider traveling during off-season

The best question to ask when considering off-season travel is what makes this time of year the off-season? There’s a reason peak times are popular, I assure you. The savings may be worth dealing with less than favorable weather or missing out on seasonal events, or not. It’s worth considering, though.

9. Familiarize yourself with your destination

I can’t stress this first time travelers tip enough. Read up on your destination before you go. Is haggling acceptable? Is tipping expected? What’s considered appropriate attire in various situations? What will the weather be like while you’re visiting? Are there any popular local scams to be on the watch for? All of these are important questions to have answered before you go.

Another great tip is to read the guide for adventure planning .

10. Pack light

One of the main tips I'd give to first time travelers , especially if they want to backpack is “pack light”. Familiarize yourself with the amount of weight you plan to carry by giving it a test run. Spend a day or two wearing your fully-packed backpack as you go about your daily life. Chances are, you’ll be more willing to cut unnecessary weight before you leave once you’ve done this.

11. Pack medicine

For a stress-free trip , you should never cut the essentials, and a first-aid kit is essential. Bring various kinds of medicine, especially if you are traveling to a country where you’re unfamiliar with the language, as well as bandages, antibiotic ointment and antibiotics, etc. Make sure you have a sufficient supply of any daily medications you may take as well.

12. Bring a journal

If you are someone who likes to journal regularly, this may already be on your list. If not, it’s something you should consider. Trip journals make wonderful souvenirs, but even if journaling isn’t something you’re interested in, at some point, you will wish you had a piece of paper and pen.

13. Have copies of your important documents

Don’t forget to make copies of all your important documents such as passport and visas in case your originals are lost or stolen. Having both hard copies and digital copies is your surest bet.

14. Remember these random, but useful things

• Microfiber towel
• Toilet paper (not a whole roll, but definitely keep some handy)
• Water filter (depending on your destination)
• Comfort item for a little bit of home to combat homesickness on longer trips (it could be a small stuffed animal, a loved one’s t-shirt, or even your favorite coffee or tea from home)

15. When packing clothes, think synthetic materials and layers

Synthetic clothing is lighter and dries more quickly than cotton, making it perfect for trips. Layers are an excellent way to transition between warmer and cooler climates without having to pack two entirely separate wardrobes.

16. Waterproof your backpack

Your backpack will likely come with a rain cover, but in my experience those things can’t be fully trusted. Instead, try lining your backpack with a large, fully waterproof bag so that everything inside stays protected.

17. Bring a battery pack

Once while in a new city, my phone died, I had no cash for the bus or streetcar, and I obviously couldn’t call an Uber. I wasn’t 100% sure how to get back to my hostel without GPS, either. Eventually, I made it back, but it would’ve been much less stressful if I’d had an extra battery to charge my phone.

18. Write down the address of the place you are staying at 

Every time you make it to a new city, write down the address of your hostel, hotel or host and keep it with you. That way, even if you don’t have access to GPS or WiFi, you can still ask someone for directions.

19. Wear your bulky clothing while traveling

This will save room in your backpack on days when everything has to fit.

20. Hide your money in multiple spots

Seriously, a money belt is a good idea. Never store all of your money in one place in case your bag, coat, etc. is lost or stolen. Try to keep some money on your person, some in your bag, and some stored safely at your hotel or hostel.

21. Stay in hostels with free breakfast or cook for yourself

You can save so much money over time by taking advantage of free meals and cooking when it’s a possibility. Many hostels offer free breakfast or, at the very least, have a kitchen you can use to prepare meals. If you choose to volunteer you may have this chance in practically any kind of project as well, such as farms, ecovillages ,  communities and NGOs .

22. Talk to the locals

Locals are your greatest sources of information. They can tell you which parts of the city are safe, share hidden gems for you to explore, and give you a much better sense of the local culture than you’d get by only talking to fellow travelers. Start with the person at the front desk of your hostel or hotel. If you are volunteering, your host will be perfect for it!  

23. take care of yourself.

Although it feels like it sometimes, life doesn’t stop when we’re on vacation. There’s nothing worse than getting sick while backpacking. I’m not saying you should never indulge in that one extra drink or sample all the delicious local foods, but don’t forget to take care of yourself. 

Try to eat at least one healthy meal per day, remember to drink water, and allow time for your body to rest and recover. Keep snacks available on travel days because traveling with a backpack will burn more calories than you’re used to, and you’ll need them for energy.

Read more about it on:  10 tips to eat healthy while traveling on a budget

24. Be flexible

Speaking of giving yourself time to rest, be flexible with your planning. Make a list of bucket list things for each stop on your trip, but also leave some days open in case you need extra rest, the weather is unfavorable one day, or you meet some cool new people and want to do something spontaneous together.

25. Be aware of free WiFi spots

Research and remember which places locally have free WiFi (think McDonald’s, Starbucks, etc.) Download city maps onto your phone when you first reach a new city. Then you can use them, even if you aren’t connected to WiFi.

26. Check in with family and friends

Give your itinerary to a few different family members or close friends before you leave. Then make a habit of checking in with them at set intervals. It could be as simple as sending an email before bed each night, but having someone who is aware of your location and expecting you to check in each day can make a huge difference if something goes wrong during your backpacking trip.

I hope these 26 first time travelers tips and tricks have been helpful. Backpacking is definitely a learning experience, but it gets easier as you go, and you're sure to discover your own tips and tricks along the way. 

Keep reading about travel tips for beginners :

7 Essential things people always forget to pack for a trip

• How to get the most out of your travel experiences
• 10 common travel problems and how to deal with them

Exploring Spain Solo: a guide to safe and enjoyable travel

Also, feel free to join Worldpackers community for free, explore some of the WP Academy courses for travellers and save your preferred work exchange positions for later.

Join the community!

Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

Kimberli Brown

I recently quit my day job to chase my dream of traveling full-time.

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Apr 16, 2023

Traveling for the first time can be an exciting yet daunting experience. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, there are several helpful tips to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to do your research and plan ahead to make the most of your time in your chosen destination. If you are interested in visiting the Oriental Pearl Tower Shanghai, be sure to check out the Oriental Pearl Tower observation deck, which offers breathtaking views of the city skyline. To learn more about the Oriental Pearl Tower facts and Oriental Pearl Tower attractions, you can visit the website https://www.discoverybit.com/directory-travel/listing/oriental-pearl-tower/. Other helpful tips for first-time travelers include packing light, staying organized, and being open to new experiences. With these tips in mind, you are sure to have an unforgettable trip.

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Key travel tips you need to know — whether you’re a first-time or frequent traveler

The holiday travel season is fully upon us. The Transportation Security Administration expects to screen a record number of passengers this Christmas, and the TSA already broke a daily record. They screened a whopping 2.9 million travelers on Nov. 26, 2023, alone ... the most passengers ever screened in a single day.

As millions of travelers take trips by plane , cruise ship or road , we've gathered some essential travel tips on how best to book and enjoy your journeys.

Whether you're an occasional road-tripper or a frequent globe-trotter, these TPG-backed top travel tips can help you avoid unnecessary headaches when you spend time away from home.

How to find travel deals

Flexibility is key when it comes to finding cheap airfare any time of year.

Changing your arrival or departure date by a single day can save you hundreds of dollars on airfare. If you don't mind altering your family's plans slightly, consider booking travel directly on major holidays like the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving and Christmas for cheaper prices and thinner airport crowds.

One of our favorite tools at TPG for finding deals is Google Flights . You can use the search field to find the cheapest (or best) flights. Google will also give you a historical view of how prices have ranged and will even send you email alerts if fares jump or drop on specific routes you've selected.

It also has some fun tools you can use to find a cheap destination. By clicking the "Explore" button on the sidebar and putting your departure airport, Google will give you a map or list view of the most wallet-friendly destinations.

However, Google isn't the only place to find deals: TPG publishes regular deal alerts. You can sign up for Twitter alerts and subscribe to our daily newsletter for the latest deals news.

Don't sleep on mileage awards, either. If you've been hoarding miles during the pandemic, it's time to spend them. Cash prices are high, so it can be a good time to burn those miles.

No matter how much you think you know about redeeming miles for flights , there are always new tips and tricks for turning those earnings into dream trips. Turn to TPG for guidance on sweet spots for redemptions. Sites like ExpertFlyer (part of Red Ventures, like TPG) supply additional redemption ideas or even business class upgrade inventory.

You may even want to consult a travel agent to get access to special deals that aren't available anywhere else. Travel agents can sometimes get you extra perks at hotels or even cheaper business-class airfare to your dream destination.

Be your own best advocate

Since there are still air traffic controller shortages and little room for error in the system these days, travelers have to be their own best advocates.

There are ways to get ahead of any possible travel nightmares.

First, be smart when booking. Try to find a nonstop flight rather than one with connections, even if it costs a little more. You'll eliminate the risk of missing connections and lessen the chance of having your luggage go in a different direction than you during a transfer.

You could also take one of the first flights of the day, as those are least likely to face afternoon thunderstorms and most likely to depart on time. Read our article 5 reasons to book the first flight of the day for all the data.

Related: Your flight is canceled or delayed – here's what you should do next

Download your airline's mobile app to keep track of potential flight delays in real time. The airline app is a secret weapon in case things go wrong. Not only will you know when boarding starts, but you'll also learn of any delays first. Some airlines allow you to even rebook yourself in the app.

If your flight is canceled, you'll want to beat everyone else on your flight who is also looking to get rebooked.

We recommend heading for the customer service desk (or lounge desk if you have access). You could also get on the phone with the airline or contact them via social media if there's a delay . Sometimes, an airline's Twitter representative will help you faster than a phone or in-person agent can. You have to use every tool at your disposal when things go south.

Many airlines also now have live chat capabilities to help navigate delays and cancellations.

I always have an alternate plan (or two) in the back of my mind in case a flight gets canceled or delayed. I also look to see what other airlines are flying the route I'm booked in case something goes awry. This way, I'll know what to ask for if I need to be rebooked.

Also, save all the receipts for the expenses you incur during delays or cancellations. You'll want excellent documentation in the case of meltdowns like the one Southwest passengers experienced during the holidays .

If you're stuck at an airport for an extended period, seek out your airport's secret quiet spaces for a brief escape from the travel chaos.

Get Global Entry and/or TSA PreCheck

One of our favorite ways to speed through the airport and avoid those summertime mega lines is via Trusted Traveler programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry .

Essentially, the government pre-screens you for security and thus you save a bit of time during your travels. You'll need to apply ahead of time and pay a fee. The great news, however, is that many credit cards will give you a statement credit for these fees. TSA PreCheck is a $78 application fee for five years, and Global Entry is $100.

Related: 7 ways to get Global Entry, TSA PreCheck and/or Clear for free

TSA PreCheck allows you to speed through airport security without removing your shoes, laptops or liquids. With Global Entry , you can breeze through customs when you return from an international trip.

If you have the time, going for Global Entry rather than simply TSA PreCheck makes sense. Global Entry requires an interview with Customs and Border Patrol ahead of time, but once you're approved, TSA PreCheck will be included.

Get Clear for the ultimate security trifecta

The other security tool we recommend you have in your travel toolbelt is Clear .

Related: Why you should get TSA PreCheck and Clear

The expedited security program allows you to bypass long security lines by using a separate lane at many airports. You'll approach a kiosk where your identity is confirmed via an iris scan or fingerprint. A Clear employee will then escort you to the front of the security screening line.

A Clear membership combined with TSA PreCheck will enable you to go to even shorter lines at some airports with designated Clear/PreCheck lines. Clear isn't perfect at all airports where it's so popular, and there are now long lines (cough, Atlanta). However, it will still generally lead to shorter lines overall.

Related: Guide to using the Amex Platinum Clear benefit

Make copies of your important documents

Make digital and hard copies of all your important travel-related documents. Start by photographing your driver's license, your state ID and/or your passport.

You should have copies of your IDs in your phone's library in case you get separated from the actual document. Sometimes, it also helps in a pinch if you are asked for ID, and you didn't bring the hard copy. For example, I was recently asked for my ID to enter One Vanderbilt to have dinner at the new American Express Centurion Lounge in New York. The receptionist would have accepted a photograph of the ID if I didn't have the physical document.

TPG also recommends having an actual photocopy in a separate place. Editor Kristy Tolley says she stores a hard copy in a separate place from where she keeps her passport in case she loses a bag. "I also leave a copy of it at home if I'm traveling alone," she said.

Check expiration dates

If you aren't 100% certain of the expiration date of your passport and other travel documents, go check them now. Renewing passports takes time, and some countries require six months of future passport validity to allow entry. Remember that child passports expire every five years, which can sneak up on you.

Related: How and when to renew your passport

Double-checking the expiration dates for your driver's licenses and state IDs is also a good idea. Remember that TSA checks the expiration dates on your documents when they screen you for security. Don't forget to check the expiration dates for your Trusted Traveler programs like Global Entry, Clear and TSA PreCheck, too. It can take a while to get a Global Entry interview appointment if you need one to renew.

Few things are worse than getting to the front of the security line and realizing the PreCheck mark is gone from your boarding pass.

Finally, check the entry requirements if you are traveling internationally. Some countries require visas that you must acquire before arrival.

Consider travel protection

When booking your travel, try to use a credit card that offers some built-in travel protection . Many credit cards, including TPG favorites like the Chase Sapphire Reserve or The Platinum Card® from American Express , offer this when you use those cards to purchase your airfare and similar.

Related: Best credit cards for trip delays and cancellations

If the coverage offered by your credit card isn't enough, you might also want to purchase travel insurance . These policies can sometimes go beyond trip cancellations to cover things like medical evacuations. Warning: Read the fine print on any extra policies very carefully to ensure it covers the situations that matter the most to you.

Those who frequently travel abroad may want to consider purchasing an annual travel insurance policy instead of buying one on a trip-by-trip basis. Some TPG staffers purchase annual policies because of the cost savings for multiple trips. Some will find having an annual policy is easier than juggling separate policies or various credit card coverage terms and conditions.

Tips for your luggage

TPG has a ton of tips when it comes to luggage.

First and foremost, try to be on "team carry-on" whenever possible. If you don't check baggage, you are much less likely to become separated from it. Many of us at TPG refuse to check luggage except under extreme circumstances.

Of course, other folks with families or those embarking on long journeys may still want to check bags. If that's the case for you, you can still do many things to lessen the chance you get separated from your stuff. For example, make sure your luggage is in good working order, your contact info is attached, the bag is within the weight limits, you get to the airport early (but not too early) to check it and confirm your luggage is tagged to the right destination or connection.

Related: 7 tips to keep the airline from losing your luggage

After last year's baggage delays and luggage disasters , we strongly suggest you put Apple AirTags (or the Android equivalent ) into your luggage so you can track your items if they go missing .

If you check a bag, keep extra medicine or medical supplies in your carry-on bag in case your luggage goes missing or gets delayed. "As a diabetic, I keep a tiny emergency kit in my backpack with enough supplies to keep me going in an emergency," TPG writer Tanner Saunders said.

Former TPG credit card writer Ryan Smith also offered words of advice regarding luggage. "The last items you pack in your carry-on will be most accessible, so use this for your passport, ID, ticket, headphones or whatever else you need during the trip," he said. By making sure those items you'll use most are easiest to reach, you'll save yourself the hassle of having to dig around (or partially unpack) your bag to grab what you need.

Finally, be sure and get compensated if your bags are late or lost. Many airlines will give you points or even cash for delayed bags, and the government has rules on compensation if your bags are lost.

Staying safe on your journeys

From potentially getting robbed while on the road to experiencing bad weather or natural disasters while traveling, there are many scenarios that could arise when you're away from home.

To mitigate those risks, pay attention to U.S. Department of State warnings about a destination you plan to visit and check local sources for the latest news from that country or region for additional context. Although the State Department tends to err on the side of caution with its warnings, it's still best to be aware of what you may face during your trip.

Also, know the local number in case of emergencies. In many places, including Mexico and much of Europe, if you dial 9-1-1 on your cellphone, you will be connected to emergency services just like in the U.S. However, you should know the local emergency numbers of whichever country you visit.

Let people at home know your itinerary and stay in touch with them throughout your trip. If something goes amiss, at least someone will know where you're supposed to be or the last place you visited.

If you're arriving at night, contact your hotel or home-share host to ask about the best way to get there at the time you're arriving and the safest ways to travel at night in that area.

Also, be strategic about how you check into a hotel. Some solo travelers request two keycards to imply someone else is on the trip. Giving thought to the hotel room's security swing bar can also make sense, with some taking steps like placing a hand towel over it to make it harder to dislodge from the outside.

Some final tips

• For cruisers, TPG principal cruise writer Gene Sloan suggests arriving in port at least a day in advance (if not several days ahead of time). This will eliminate the risk of missing your ship's departure time and help you get acclimated to the local time zone.
• When taking road trips to out-of-the-way destinations, go old school and bring paper maps with you or download offline maps from Google. Using a paper map or an offline version means you always have a way to navigate around your chosen destination, even if you lose cellular service.
• One other note, you should reserve airport parking ahead of time during peak travel times. Some airport parking areas fill up fast around holidays, so reserving your spot ahead of time will save you from wasting time looking for a space when you need to catch a flight. You can also sometimes save by booking online in advance, too.

Bottom line

Whether you're fresh to the world of traveling or a seasoned expert, you can always learn new tips to maximize your time away from home. The more research and preparation you do before your trip, the better your experience will be — especially if things go wrong, as they sometimes do.

Some of our favorite tools are deal alerts, Google Flights , sign-up bonuses and credit card rewards . Learn those tools and use them for better travel every time.

Remember that these days when things go wrong, you have to be your own best advocate. For more travel tips and tricks, read the stories below.

Related reading:

• Your flight is delayed or canceled: Here's what to do next
• The best travel credit cards
• The 18 best places to travel in 2023
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• Here's how to get through airport security faster

40 Useful tips for first-time travelers

If you’re traveling for the first time, there is no doubt you have a lot of questions. Wondering how it’s going to be like, what you need to know, how to behave and generally what to expect on your trip.

I’ve been there, in fact, everyone has been there! And having made my share of mistakes during my first trip, I feel like I’ve advanced so much as a traveler and I am confident that I can now give travel tips to first-time travelers or at least push them in the right direction by sharing a few things I’ve picked up during my traveling journey.

So in this post, I’ll be sharing with you some of the useful tips for first-time travelers to help you prepare for that amazing trip that you’ve been planning for a while.

Essential tips for traveling abroad for the first time

1. don’t expect things to be like they are at home..

I mean that’s the point of traveling – to discover new places and experience the ways of life in other countries. And if every place was just like your native country, there wouldn’t be any point in traveling.

2. Be open to learning new things

One of the advantages of traveling is that it widens our world plus our thinking horizon. So be open to learning new things especially if you don’t have them back home.

Whether it is learning a new language, picking up a new hobby, be ready to learn something new along your traveling journey.

3. Don’t judge but rather try to understand things/situations you might come across.

Since obviously the way of life might be different or certain things done differently in the place you’re traveling to, don’t be a “jerk” that looks down on people because they live differently.

Instead, try to understand why things are done that way and then you can choose to adapt to them or simply just ignore them. I mean not everything is for everyone.

4. Try to learn the basic words/ language of the country you’re traveling to.

Learning a few basic words of the local language of the country you’re traveling to will go a long way. In my experience, locals will always be more friendly and helpful if you speak a few words of their language.

No, you don’t need to speak it fluently but your efforts to compose a sentence won’t go unnoticed.

Before you go for that international trip, make sure that you’ve done all these things here.

5. Manners and respect are required everywhere- don’t forget them.

This is like an international trait and there is nowhere in the world where it is ok to disrespects people. So if you’re traveling, do not forget your manners whatsoever.

And remember, people, are more likely to treat you the way you treat them. So if you try to be rude or disrespectful, no one will want to associate with you.

6. Be flexible

As a traveler, you need to learn to be flexible. Things are gonna go wrong somehow, plans are gonna get changed, the weather is gonna change (sometimes abruptly). but regardless of what happens, always be willing to change plans.

If you had planned an outdoor adventure and it rains, do not keep sobbing the entire day – instead, find something else that can be done indoors.

7. Respect the local culture

I am sure you wouldn’t be happy if a tourist came to your home country and started disrespecting your culture. So be more welcoming and instead of disrespecting the native culture, try to immerse yourself into it – or better yet, try learning about it deeper.

8. Interact with the locals

There is no better way of learning about a new country than interacting with the locals. This is also the best way to discover the hidden gems of the place since in most cases not so many tourists talk about them and they’re also rarely in guide books. 

Literally just interacting with the locals will give you a better understanding of the country in terms of getting recommendations and understanding their way of life better.

9. Buy travel insurance

Travel insurance is one of the most important travel essentials you need to have as a first-time traveler. Anything can go wrong while on the road, from losing your stuff to falling sick.

If you don’t have travel insurance, it might be hard to get medical care in a foreign country and this is where travel insurance comes in to save the day. 

Though it might seem like its just “expensive for nothing”, it might be the only thing that saves you that $1000 camera.  Actually it is said that, If you can’t afford travel insurance, you certainly can’t afford to travel.

The Travel Insurance I recommend for all kinds of travelers (except those above 75 years) is World Nomads . It’s easy to request a quote online and it works in over 160 countries worldwide.

10. Protect your passport like your life depends on it (because it does, in a way).

As a foreigner in a new country, your “life” and security literally depend on your passport. So keep it as safe as possible.

You can buy this Travel neck Pouch/ passport holder to keep it safe when you’re traveling with it or a Pacsafe to lock it away together with your other valuables when leaving it back at your hotel.

Ps: Many blogs advise travelers to always walk with their passports, but in my opinion, this is wrong. The chances of you losing it when on your daily adventures is high. So I say, carry your passport only and only when you need to use it. But for security reasons, make a photocopy of it which you can take with you everywhere.

11. Be ready for the culture shock

Whether you travel to Africa , Asia or Europe , you’re bound to find cultures that are totally opposite of what you’re used to back home. So as a first-time traveler, be ready to see things out of “your norm” and try as much as possible to embrace them.

12. Always trust your instincts

One of the things that has saved many people whether traveling or not is trusting their gut. If something feels wrong to you, trust your instincts and move away from it.

Traveling is no different, you’ll be faced with a number of situations and they’re sometimes not black and white. So, if you’re not sure of what to do, just calm down, listen to your inner self and go with it! (Well unless you’re absolutely sure that your instincts are always wrong lol).

13 . Eat at places where the locals eat from

The easiest way to find the best and cheap eats is by eating from where the locals eat. This is where my previous point of interacting with the locals comes in since the only way to know where the locals go is by asking them directly.

For whichever kind of food you want to try, ask the locals to lead you to the best cuisines – I mean they know their country more than anyone else.

14. Stay safe at all times

While traveling, do not compromise your safety for adventure. If the streets are not safe to walk in at night, sacrifice going to a club or find a safer way of going there.

If an adventurous activity might be a danger to your life, it’s better to stay safe and alive than ticking it off your bucket list. Remember, this varies from individual to individual, so what might be safe for others might not be for you depending on each one’s health conditions.

You can also check out these travel safety tips to make sure you stay safe throughout your travels.

15. Do not put off the off-the-beaten paths

As first-time travelers, we always want to see the most popular tourist sites in an area. Of course, even if it’s me, I would want to see the Eiffel tower when I visit Paris , but this doesn’t mean that you have to completely write off visiting the hidden gems

I would actually advise you to visit the most popular sites and then embark on the off the beaten path if you still have time but not just leaving the country immediately after seeing the famous places.

16. Don’t let your trip get ruined when bad stuff happens or if something goes wrong

Bad things happen, that’s how life is and sometimes we can’t really control them. But when one bad thing happens, do not let it ruin your entire trip that you planned for so long.

Accept the fact that it happened and if you can fix it, do so but if you can’t, dust yourself up and move onto something else. Something like having the time of your life in a new country because you’re never going to have another first time in that particular destination.

17. Don’t take people’s photos without their consent especially if you plan to post them on the internet

One thing I’ve learned is that most people just don’t like their photos taken by strangers at all. I am that kind of person actually. If you want a photo of me, ask nicely and chances are high that I will say yes.

So unless you’re absolutely sure that its ok or it’s just a random photo, try not to take people’s photos without their permission especially if you’re planning on using them on social media.

Traveling has taught me that locals are always nice to tourists, so all it takes is asking nicely and politely and explain a bit as to why you want to take their photos and you’ll be blown away by how many will say yes to you.

18. Travel light but do not leave the essentials behind.

First-time travelers in most cases pack their entire home for a trip that will last a couple of days. I know this because, for my first trip to Egypt , I literally packed things I could use for 2 months for a trip of one week (arrrgg…. talk about being a first-time traveler and a heavy backpacker). But as time went on, I learned how to pack light and it is soo liberating.

So the earlier you start learning the tips of packing light, the better. This post that I wrote when I finally got a gist of traveling light will show you all the tips and tricks to packing light and its advantages.

However, packing light doesn’t mean leaving behind the travel essentials. So below are some of the travel items you should never leave behind when traveling.

A universal travel adapter : Since different countries use different adapters, I’d advise you to buy one universal travel adapter to cater for all regions. You can  buy one from here  if you don’t have it yet.

–  A power Bank : One of the things you should never leave behind while traveling is the Powerbank! Phones have now become a great deal of our lives that we need to use them for so many important things. So take a power bank with you so that you don’t run out of battery.  This power bank   is small, light and has the capability to charge your phone and other devices multiple times.

–  Microfibre travel towel  – I always opt for  this microfibre travel towel   because it is super lightweight, easy to wash and dries easily.

–  First Aid kit : Regardless of where you’re traveling to, you’ll need to pack a First Aid kit for emergencies that might arise while traveling. Remember it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Just make sure that the one you pack has all the essentials and that it is small and light enough to fit in any kind of suitcase/ backpack.  This first aid kit   actually fits all the qualities mentioned above plus it is really cheap for what it offers.

–  Collapsible water bottle : I always prefer carrying a water bottle while traveling so that I can just refill it when I run out of water. It also helps to be a responsible traveler since you won’t have to use tones of disposable plastic bottles which are not great for our environment. Any water bottle can work but I prefer  this collapsible one  as it doesn’t take a lot of space in my bag.

19. Be aware that scams are everywhere and that they can happen at any time but the best thing you can do is to learn how to avoid them

Honestly, they’re likely to be travel scams everywhere you travel to and the only thing you can do is to be aware of them beforehand and know how best you can avoid them.

20. Always distribute your cash in different areas

This travel tip will save you from walking hundreds of kilometers back to your hotel. It is always prudent to prepare for the worst when traveling so distribute your money in different places so that if in an unfortunate incident you get pickpocketed, you still have some more cash on you in other places.

Or to even up your game, you can purchase this anti-theft money belt from amazon . It is a good way of keeping money in places that even pickpockets cannot reach.

21. Smile and be kind but don’t be afraid to say NO if need be

A smile and kindness go a long way when traveling especially for the first time – and not just traveling but anywhere else.

And since you’ll be meeting a number of “strangers”, smiling and showing a sense of kindness will draw more people to you who are even likely to offer help if you need it.

Nevertheless, while you keep your cool and smile, don’t be afraid to say NO when someone starts harassing you in a certain way. In places like Cairo where sellers are aggressive, don’t hesitate to say no immediately and walk away.

22. Make copies of your travel documents and always note down the address of your hotel

I always do this when traveling and it’s not just a tip for first-time travelers but also seasoned travelers. Making copies of your travel documents will save you thousands of troubles in an unfortunate incident that you lose your original copies. In the same way, having your hotel location can be very helpful.

23. Take more than one credit/debit card

Traveling is really all about being prepared and taking caution at all times and the best way to ensure that you’re financially secured is by carrying more than one credit/debit card.

In case you lose one, you can still use another one. And although it’s uncommon, if one card can’t be accepted at a particular ATM machine for whatever reason, you’ll still have something to fall back to.

24. Don’t expect places to look exactly as they looked like in photos on Instagram

Have you ever come across photos of your country on the internet and wonder whether they actually took the photo from a different place? There are chances that it could be the same for other destinations too.

Photos are sometimes gonna be different according to the lighting, zoom, and so many other photo editing techniques. So don’t be astonished if a popular place looks slightly different compared to the photos you’ve seen making rounds of Instagram. Reality can’t be edited but photos can.

To give you an example, the “Gates of Heaven ” in Bali, Indonesia is so different in real life compared to how photos portray it.

In most photos, you’ll see a reflection of the gate on the water – to make it look like there is water on the ground but in reality, there is no water at all.

However, even though some popular sites are exaggerated in photos, some others are totally underrated. Like the Victoria falls in Zimbabwe , there is no photo that can really show how magnificent the falls are.

25. Carry emergency cash

I know I’ve talked a lot about money issues in this post but it’s because money is one of those factors that can make your trip memorable or disastrous.

If your budget for the entire trip is around $3000, carry an extra $500-$1000 for emergencies and use it only and only in cases of emergencies.

26. Look for ways to save money while traveling

Except if you’re a “rich kid” that doesn’t care about how much you spend on what, its important to find ways you can save some bucks.

Whether it is cutting out eating at expensive restaurants or sleeping at fancy hotels, any money saved can help even increase the time you can travel for in that country.

You can find other ways to save money while traveling from this post . Trust me, any money saved is always important- but you already knew that!

27. Don’t be afraid to splurge a bit especially when it comes to once in a lifetime experiences

It might be shocking that I am just from giving you tips for traveling on a budget and now am talking about splurging.

Trust me, some things require a bit of splurging especially for once in a lifetime adventures . If you had an activity on your bucket list for so long, don’t feel bad going a little above your budget to do it- for all we know, another opportunity to go back to that particular place might not present itself again.

Related: Common mistakes to avoid while traveling

28. Public transportation is the cheapest way to travel around (in most cases).

Whether you’re traveling to India , Paris , Istanbul or any other place in the world, public transportation is the cheapest way to get around especially in big cities.

So if you want to travel cheaply, public transportation is the way to go. Even though it might not be as comfortable as private transportation in some places, it will save you a couple of bucks and you’ll experience the life of the locals even more.

29. Travel the way you want and not how everyone else tells you because honestly, everyone travels differently.

When it comes to traveling, everyone has their own style. Some are slow travelers (staying longer in places before moving onto the next one), some prefer tackling a number of destinations in a few days, some travel solo, others in groups. Not everything is gonna suit you as an individual.

So before you choose to take on other people’s traveling styles, make sure they suit your personal needs. Travel the way you’re comfortable with not what others suggest because we all have things we are comfortable with and they might be different from others’.

30. Try the local food of the country you travel to

What is traveling to a new destination without trying out their local food? So try as much as you can to taste the local dishes of the places you travel to after all food is an extremely important aspect when it comes to learning the traditions of the country.

Even though it might look and taste different from your native food, it’s worth giving it a shot to see what the locals crave.

31. Stay in contact with your family and friends back home.

I understand that there are some people that just want to disconnect from their home when they travel but as a first-time traveler, it’s important to stay connected with them and keep them updated on your whereabouts so that in case of emergencies, they know where to start from.

32. Get a universal travel adapter. Don’t buy a new one for each country you visit

First-time travelers always make a mistake of wanting to buy a different travel adapter for each country they plan to visit. But no, it shouldn’t be done like this – this is extremely costly and not practical when it comes to packing since you want to pack as light as possible.

So what you need to do is to buy a universal travel adapter that works everywhere around the world whether Europe, Asia, Africa or America. This universal travel adapter is what I recommend before you go for your first international trip.

33. A first aid kit goes a long way, make sure you don’t forget it.

The sad reality is that accidents can happen but to make sure you’re prepared for simple and minor accidents, don’t leave behind a first aid kit.

Whether it is to stop bleeding, prevent infections when you get a cut, you’ll be happy you took this first aid kit .

34. Ask for help when you need it

As a first time traveler, you’re likely to find yourself needing help whether its direction or how to do certain things.

Regardless of whatever it might be, request for help and I assure you, you’ll be able to find someone kind enough to help out.

35. Have fun but know your limits.

This applies especially to young people who want to party, drink and have fun in their youthful years. There is totally nothing wrong about wanting to live your best life but know exactly where to stop especially when it comes to drinking.

Don’t get so drunk that you reach a point of throwing up everywhere or blacking out. Know your limits and try not to cross them in the name of having fun.

Related post: Things to know before staying in a Hostel for the first time

36. Don’t be afraid of making mistakes while traveling because that’s how you learn

37. do not flash around your expensive items around.

38. Get familiar with the “break the ice questions”

As you travel, you’re more likely to keep getting questions like where are you from, where are you traveling to next, or which countries have you traveled to so far.

Do not get tired of them as they are a good way of starting a conversation with other travelers.

39. Food poisoning and diarrhea are common when traveling

Food poisoning and diarrhea are common especially when traveling to new places with totally different dishes. So wish your stomach good luck and enjoy the ride.

40. Break out of the shell and interact with other travelers.

This will help you make new friends as you travel or even find other travels whom you may end up traveling with.

If it’s your first time traveling abroad, I hope these general International travel tips gave you an idea of what to expect, what to do and generally how to behave in order to have the best first trip of your life.

More travel tips to know

• How to plan an international trip from scratch
• What to pack for a weekend getaway
• Things to pack for a hostel stay

* The adventurous feet is a proud member of the Amazon Associate and other affiliates. This means that if you purchase anything through this website, I might get a small commission without any additional cost to you*

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| Helping You Experience Europe Easily

33 Helpful Tips For Traveling Internationally the First Time

Traveling abroad for the first time and not sure what you need.

I’m a European travel expert, and over the past decade, I’ve traveled internationally a ton. Meaning, I’ve figured out how to travel well, and I’ve made plenty of mistakes, too! In this blog post, I’ll provide some international travel tips and advice for first-time travelers to help make their journey smoother and more enjoyable. From packing essentials to cultural etiquette, I’ll cover everything you need to know to have a successful and memorable international adventure.

Traveling internationally for the first time is an exciting yet daunting experience. It’s a chance to explore new cultures, taste new cuisines, and create lasting and life-changing memories. However, it can also be overwhelming to navigate unfamiliar customs, languages, and currencies. I took my first international trip in 2014, and it was an unforgettable experience. But I did it all wrong. Between 5 countries, countless cities, and way too many currency changes, I messed up plenty. Long story short, having the advice below as a first time international traveler could’ve helped my trip run so much smoother and be even more fantastic than it was.

Planning a Trip Soon? Use My Favorite Resources Below!

Booking a Flight : Use Skyscanner to find the best prices! Accommodations : I love Booking.com ! Travel Insurance : SafetyWing Is the best in the industry! Things to Do: Use Viator for amazing experiences ! Car Rental: In Europe, I recommend DiscoverCars

Logistics & International Travel Tips For Planning Your First Time Abroad

The logistics of travel documents and planning can be one of the most daunting parts of adventuring internationally for the first time. Here’s what you need to know:

✔️ 1. Get Your Passport in Order!

First, get a valid passport. And then… Understand that some countries require your passport to be valid for 6 months AFTER your return date , or you will not be permitted to board your international flight. Even if you’re returning on March 6th and your passport expires on March 26th…it’s a no-go. Don’t even try. Seriously…my friend and I were at the airport, ready to head to Barcelona, and were denied boarding because her passport expired earlier than 6 months after our return. (Hi, Jen! Still love you, though!). Don’t let that happen to you. It is a HUGE disappointment (And annoyance as you’re unpacking).

✔️ 2.Make Copies Of Your Passport + Other Important Documents!

Have physical AND electronic copies of your passport. The last thing you want is to be stranded with no passport in a foreign country. Thankfully, extra copies of your passport can help prevent delays and will be helpful in getting a temporary passage from an embassy. You’ll also want to have copies of any other important documents. I generally store these in my luggage and in my carry-on. Just in case I get separated from my checked baggage.

✔️ 3. Register Your Trip With the International State Department (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program)

Register your trip locations and dates with The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. This will notify appropriate United States embassies and consulates that you are traveling abroad. It can be exceptionally useful in a few events: ⭐ If there is an emergency or catastrophe, the embassy will know to look for you in that country and can easily assist you. ⭐ If you happen to lose a passport or need other assistance, they will already see the record of your trip. You can register with the International State Department here .

✔️ 4. Plan Your First Time Traveling Internationally, But Don’t Overplan It

Have a fantastic itinerary for your first trip abroad, but don’t schedule yourself down to every last minute. It can be tempting to pack your days full of amazing things to do, but you want to leave some time to explore on your own. You’re apt to walk past a store you’re dying to check out or see a cute bakery that makes your mouth water. If you have a jam-packed itinerary, you won’t be able to stop and smell the roses or wander around.

✔️ 5. Print Confirmation Paperwork

Have hard copies with you for all of your major bookings: flights, hotels, trains, tours, car rentals, etc. In the era of wifi and cell phones, many people rely on email confirmations in the event of confusion. However, it is pretty much guaranteed (Newton’s law or something like that, right?) that the moment you need access to your email, wifi and phone service won’t be working for you. Plus, you don’t want to have to sift through confirmations while you’re dealing with a frustrated gate agent. Have a folder with printed confirmations, and whip that baby out in the event of an issue.

✔️ 6. Purchase Travel Insurance

Purchasing travel insurance is one of the best ways to protect yourself from losing out on a ton of money. Most first-time travelers don’t realize just how much travel insurance does. It covers you in the event of most cancellations, weather delays, lost luggage, health emergencies, and many other nuanced situations that can delay or ruin your international trip. I only ever purchase travel insurance through SafetyWing. Their flexible policies and customer service have always made the process easy and reliable.

Tips: What to Pack

Pretty much everyone I know (including myself) has either under-packed or severely over-packed the first time they were traveling internationally. This is how to do it the right way!

✔️ 7. Consult a Packing List

An international travel tip you can’t afford to skip: Research what you need to take with you ahead of time! You do not want to take your first trip abroad and forget something absolutely vital that you had no idea you needed. Like, seriously, who knew you needed a power adapter just to plug in your straightener or phone charger? Yep, you do! Don’t get caught without the tools you need to make your first trip abroad a success. Similarly, a travel passport wallet is one of the top travel items I recommend everyone have on hand.

✈️ Need a full packing list for your first international trip? Here’s everything you need to take with you!

✔️ 8. Spend The Money on Good Luggage

Save yourself the trouble. Buy good luggage! There is (almost) nothing worse than traipsing around a foreign country with broken luggage. You know- walking to your hotel, dragging (or carrying) all of that stuff you just had to have with you on your trip.

Pro Travel Tip: You want luggage that rolls all ways and is reliable. I personally love this soft-sided set , but if you prefer a hard-sided suitcase, this Samsonite one is also a great choice!

✔️ 9. Mark Your Luggage Visibly

Buy something to mark your luggage with! Because basically everyone in the world travels with black luggage. Have you ever seen a packed baggage carousel? In the massive sea of black bags, you know what stands out? Bright colors. Flashy tags. I generally go for my personal favorite… Pomchies! Little pom poms that snap right onto your luggage handle. I can’t make myself buy anything but black (sorry not sorry!), but, if you’re really into being visible, you can always purchase a colored suitcase, too!

✔️ 10. Don’t Overpack

Do not cram your suitcase full on your way to your destination. This will prevent you from being able to purchase souvenirs or other items you decide you want to bring back. Trust me, I have had to pay $150 to check a suitcase full of extra things (granted, it was planned). Leave room in your suitcase; you need less than you think you do.

✔️ 11. You Need to be Able to Carry Your Luggage

An often overlooked travel tip: You WILL need to walk with your luggage at some point during your travels. Therefore, you don’t want anything more than a backpack (personal item) and a suitcase. If you can’t walk through a street to your hotel with it in one trip, you should not pack it. You will feel like a pack mule and regret it.

⭐ The first time I took her abroad, my mom brought a TON of stuff. Like…multiple small bottles of bath bubbles (because we had time for that 😂) and could not get across the s treets of Amsterdam without help. She was frustrated, and so were we (Hi, Mom!). Don’t be that person.

✔️ 12. Bring a Bag to Carry During the Day

Having a crossbody bag or other small bag for daily explorations is one of my top tips for traveling internationally for the first time. Your backpack or personal item from the plane is too big to carry around cities during the day. Plus, many places, for example, churches or historical sites like the Anne Frank House , will not let you take large bags inside with you. A crossbody bag or a belt bag is a perfect option because it is secure and compact, yet large enough to carry a few must-have items with you like money, chapstick, or sunglasses.

✔️ 13. Invest in Great Shoes

You cannot travel abroad as a first-time international traveler without comfortable walking shoes. When traveling, you’ll walk so much more than usual-especially if you are traveling to larger cities like Paris, Krakow, or Edinburgh . Buying comfortable shoes guarantees that you’ll be able to have an enjoyable trip. The alternative is getting blisters, being uncomfortable, and, depending on how badly your feet hurt, being unable to walk around the next few days.

✔️ 14. Know What Will Make Your Long-Haul Flight More Comfortable

There are international travel tips that you can use to make that long flight a bit more bearable. Plan ahead and figure out what YOU would like to bring. This can vary for just about everyone. I personally always have with me things to do ( a book , my airpods, etc.), chargers, snacks, water, toiletries, a change of clothes, a face mask for moisturizing, and fuzzy socks so that I can take off my shoes but not touch the nasty airplane floor -ew . Whatever will make you comfortable- bring it along!

All Things Money, Cards & Currency

It often goes unnoticed that one of the largest things to plan for when you’re traveling internationally for the first time is how you’ll access money and how you’ll get local currency. Luckily, I’ve perfected this process for you step-by-step!

✔️ 15. Don’t Exchange Money Ahead of Time

Wait a beat and exchange your currency locally once you arrive at your destination. Exchanging ahead of time in the United States will not get you the best bang for your buck. Plus, you don’t want to carry around a ton of extra cash during your flight or lengthy travel. Talk about an easy way to lose your money…yikes!

Tip: I generally do exchange money at the airport just so that I have local currency right away. However, you’ll find the best exchange rates at local banks.

✔️ 16. But…Carry Cash

You need to have cash in the local currency. Pre-Covid, cash was king in many countries- especially in Europe. Although countries are moving towards being cashless now more than ever, there are still many times you’ll need cold hard dinero. Smaller cafes and restaurants, local artisans, and street food vendors are just a few of the places you DEFINITELY want to visit that likely won’t accept card or touchless pay. Trust me, missing out on an experience you really want just because you don’t have cash is THE WORST.

⭐ Europe Tip: You’ll want to carry cash AND coins as most countries in Europe only have paid public toilets ! Take it from someone who has been there…you don’t want to be wandering around Paris trying to find a bathroom at the last minute just to find out you need a Euro and you don’t have one. It is awful. And embarrassing.

✔️ 17. Bring a Credit Card (With No Foreign Transaction Fees)

Bring a credit card along with you on your trip- preferably one that has no foreign transaction fees. Although you can use cash, you will also frequently need to use a card too in order to avoid stopping by ATMs constantly. Taking out cash charges a transaction fee, whereas a credit card with no foreign transaction fees will be free to use. Just be sure to choose the local currency at checkout in order to get the best conversion.

✔️ 18. And Bring an Extra Credit Card, Too!

Stash an extra credit card in your suitcase or in your hotel safe. That way, if the notorious European pickpockets get you, or you lose your wallet, you won’t be completely out of luck. You’ll still have an extra card stowed away for an emergency!

✔️ 19. Notify Credit Card Company That You’re Traveling

Let your credit card company know where you are traveling and when. Depending on your bank and the type of card you have, you might be told to skip this step. But, I HIGHLY recommend you do it anyway. I once forgot to tell my credit card company that I was traveling, and they shut off BOTH of the credit cards I had with me. I was stuck in Amsterdam without access to money. I had to three-way call my parents and my bank to get it fixed- a nightmare you don’t want to add to your first international trip. Save yourself the headache and call!

Technology Tips to Use Before Your First International Trip

Things like apps and how you’ll use technology abroad are important pieces to consider prior to your travels. They can both make traveling significantly easier and more convenient!

✔️ 20. Plan For Your Phone

Decide whether or not you need an international phone plan. Most carriers offer daily rates for unlimited data and calls internationally. For instance, the AT&T plan that I use charges me $10/day for international access. Verizon offers a similar option. You can simply call your phone carrier and ask them what their options are and put this plan on your device.

Tip: If you have an iPhone, you may decide you do not need a phone plan. You’ll be able to utilize wifi at public places, hotels, and other locations in order to access apps, iMessage, Facetime, or communicate via WhatsApp. However, you won’t be able to text or call.

✔️ 21. Check the Weather. Then Check it Again.

You need to keep tabs on the weather in the country you’re traveling to…and you need to pack for it. Download your favorite weather app and check a few weeks or months in advance just to get an idea of what you might need to start purchasing. Then, check a week or two in advance as you start setting things aside to pack. Finally, double-check the weather the week of your trip as you’re packing. This will tell you what types of clothing to pack and whether you need any additional items like heavy boots or a particularly weather-durable jacket.

✔️ 22. Know a Few Phrases

Learn some key words and phrases in the native language prior to your first international trip. Being able to use common courtesy in a foreign country will go a long way toward making traveling internationally for the first time so much easier. People all over the world genuinely appreciate when you attempt to say hello, goodbye, please, thank you, and good morning in their native language. In addition, you do not want to get caught in a situation where you need a bathroom badly and cannot find one. Always know how to ask for a restroom. You don’t have to be an expert! Just try to learn a few phrases.

✔️ 23. Use Google Translate

Don’t be afraid to utilize tools like Google Translate to help you out! If you grab the app ahead of time, you can download specific languages so that they can be used offline. Meaning, whether you have an international phone plan or wifi at the time or not, you’ll still always have access to the translations. While many countries speak English in tourist areas, this can be useful if you come across a language barrier!

✔️ 24. Download Offline Maps Ahead of Time

It’s a great idea to download city maps from Google Maps ahead of time so that you can use them offline as well. This will prevent you from getting into a situation where you are unsure of directions or where to go and have no way of finding your way around. Regardless of service, you’ll be able to search locations and instructions for travel. This article has easy directions on how to download these offline maps.

You’ve Made It! On-Trip Tips

Finally, some of my tried-and-true tips for how to maximize your time abroad in the best ways.

✔️ 25. Try Local Grocery Stores

When you’re traveling abroad for the first time, you want to try all the foods, right? Look, it sounds a little out there, but this is like my FAVORITE tip for traveling internationally ever (can you tell I love food?). Each country you travel to likely has its own chain of local grocery stores. In the United Kingdom, you’ll find Tesco. In the Netherlands, Albert Heijn. In Poland, Biedronka. In France, Monoprix. These local grocery stores are THE BEST PLACES to grab food and try it . It’ll be a wild guessing game of trying to decipher packaging based on photos and words you know, but it’ll be an experience for sure!

⭐ Pro Tip: Get water bottles each day at the grocery stores. It’s so much cheaper than buying water elsewhere, it’ll help you stay hydrated, and you’ll have something to sip on back at your hotel!

✔️ 26. Public Transportation is Better

In most of the larger international cities (and, really, even smaller ones), public transportation is a godsend. In the United States, we are so used to shunning public transport. It’s inefficient, it’s often dirty, and it is not cost-effective for the most part. Internationally, this couldn’t be more false. You WANT to take public transportation while you’re traveling abroad for the first time. Particularly in Europe, the network of trains, buses, trams , and other types of travel are so intricate and efficient that it saves an incredible amount of time. You’ll also get a legitimate local feel if you take public transport. You might get on the wrong train, head in the wrong direction, or feel like you stand out from the crowd. But, again, you’ll remember the experience forever.

😂 Embarrassing Story Time: One time, I tried to get off of a tram in Amsterdam at the last minute, tripped over my suitcase, and fell flat on my face in front of a bunch of local Dutch people. I felt like an idiot (my husband never lets me live it down- even still), but everyone was so sweet and helpful. Hey, it happens to the best of us. Don’t be afraid to try public transport! What’s the worst that could happen!?

✔️ 27. Don’t Block Lanes

Watch out for European traffic lanes (Ex: the fietspad- bike lane- in the Netherlands ) because you will get run over. In the U.S., we don’t really have alternate traffic lanes other than our traditional car ones. At least, they’re not extraordinarily frequent. In Europe and other places, this couldn’t be less true. In the Netherlands, for example, you’ll often have lanes for cars, lanes for bikes, and walking paths, too! It is so easy to find yourself in the middle of these lanes without even knowing it. Pay attention! And, for the love of God, stay out of the fietspad 🙃

✔️ 28. Look For the Locals

Locals know what they’re doing- follow them. If a restaurant or store is empty aside from people with tour stickers and souvenir bags- avoid it! Locals know where the hidden gems are. Keep an eye out for populated cafes, bars with relaxed locals, and stores that are not tacky chains. You’ll have a better overall experience trying out what is really awesome in a given country vs. what the internet and tourists say is awesome.

✔️ 29. Eat Off the Beaten Path

DO NOT eat anywhere within a few hundred feet of a large monument, attraction, or historical site. You will never- I repeat, never – find great food in these tourist areas. Walk away from the Eiffel Tower, the Rialto Bridge, the Grand Place. Find restaurants down a side street and enjoy some of the best foods of your entire life.

✔️ 30. More People Will Speak English Than You Think

A significant number of the people you come across during your international travels will likely speak English , so you do not need to expend energy worrying that you’ll never be able to communicate with anyone. The first time I traveled abroad, we had a stop in Poland, which was much less of a popular tourist destination at the time. I was so concerned that we’d be stuck in Krakow for a few days , trying desperately to translate Polish. Well, guess what…pretty much everyone in Krakow spoke English just fine. No sweat.

Getting Into a Traveling Mindset

Traveling well is not as easy as just hopping on a plane and doing the damn thing. You also have to prepare yourself for the journey. You have to get into the correct traveling mindset.

✔️ 31. Get Ready to Be Outside Your Comfort Zone

At some point in your trip, you will be uncomfortable. Rules of the game, my friend. Recognize that you did not travel across the world to experience the very same things you could easily have experienced at home. Travel intentionally pushes you out of that little zone where you feel safe. Learn from it and embrace it! Be intrigued by what lies past those boundaries you’ve set for yourself.

✔️ 32. Don’t Take Things Personally

The customs of other countries are NOT the same as the customs in ours. You’ve likely heard, for example, that Germans or French people can be curt and unkind. The reality is that the German language sounds rougher than it is in general , and French people have just gotten a bad rap likely due to a disdain for small talk. What’s rude in your country may not be considered rude in another. Try not to take anything personally. Unless you’re being raucous, obscene, and massively inconsiderate, I promise, it’s not about you.

✔️ 33. Be Flexible

Things will go wrong the first time you’re traveling internationally . It’s like an unwritten rule, and it just be like that sometimes. It is incredibly easy to allow these setbacks, route changes, or inconveniences to impact your entire mindset, and, therefore, your entire trip. Don’t let it! Be as flexible as you can! It’ll help you have the most amazing time.

Everything You Need to Know For Your First International Trip

That’s a wrap! My top 33 tips to help you have a smooth, successful, and, most important, ENJOYABLE first time traveling internationally. Exploring new countries and cities is life-changing , and I know you’ll come back with memories you’ll never forget! Safe travels!

Taylor Beal, owner and author of Traverse With Taylor, has been traveling in Europe for more than a decade and helps others explore Europe easily through amazing guides and itineraries. She has adventured through more than 20 countries, searching for the best experiences, must-try foods, and delicious beers! She spends a lot of time in Scotland and Amsterdam, two of her favorite places! Taylor is also a Holocaust educator focused on raising awareness around WWII historical sites.

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47 First Time Flying Tips: Complete Steps for A Smooth Trip

• 47 First Time Flying Tips:…

Flying for the first time might seem intimidating, but it is not as complicated as it might seem. We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of tips for first-time travelers to make your experience stress-free and comfortable.

Let’s begin the first time flying tips!

We’ve broken them down into four traveling sections; before your flight, at the airport, in the plane, and after landing, to help you understand each stage of your flight. And now we are ‘ready for take-off!’.

Table of Contents

Before your flight:

1. add your flight to your calendar..

Set the alarm for your flight and include the flight details on your smartphone. Make sure you have the correct date, time, and departure gate. Let others know you will be flying and give all the flight information in case of an emergency. If you book your own flight, make sure to know when to find cheap flights .

2. Create a checklist.

Give yourself some peace of mind and make a checklist of things indispensable for your trip, like chargers, medication, and passports, and a checklist of things you must do at home before leaving, like; closing the garage door, turning off the stove, and taking out the trash.

3. Know your cancelation and travel rights.

Assuming you already purchased your ticket from the best flight booking sites , learn about their cancelation rights, compensation for lost luggage and delays, and moving flight dates. This will come in handy if there are any issues during your flight, be it with your baggage or connecting flight.

4. Check-In from home.

Before the pandemic, check-in at home was optional. Now, most airlines charge a check-in fee if you don’t check-in 24 hours before your flight. In addition, print or take a screenshot to have with you and present at the check-in counter.

5. Baggage requirements.

Know the difference between a personal bag, a carry-on bag, and a check-in bag. A personal bag is like a purse, a carry-on bag is small and fits in the plane’s overhead compartment, and luggage is the heaviest bag that has to be checked in. If you’re traveling with a car seat or a stroller , make sure to check the airline’s policy about it.

6. Weigh your bag.

Each airline has slightly different weight limits on their check-in bags. Know what the limit is with your airline. If you have a connecting flight with another airline, check their bag weight limits too. You might have to pay a price difference at some point during your connection flight if there are any differences in weight limits. You must know what is included in your tickets.

7. Plan for the worst.

Load your carry-on with a change of clothes, medication, supplements, makeup, chargers, items essential for your trip, and priceless possessions in case the airline misplaces or losses your checked-in bag.

8. Pack smart.

Know what is and isn’t allowed on to avoid any issues during the security screening at the airport. For example can you bring a razor on a plane ? Check the TSA list of permitted items on a carry-on and a check-in bag. This list will help you determine what to bring and leave behind and will make the security screening process faster and without incident.

9. Arrive with time to spare.

Allocate enough time for travel and traffic from home to the airport. If traveling internationally, arrive two or three hours before your flight check-in. If you are traveling nationally, an hour or two is enough before check-in. Remember that summer is the busiest traveling time; consider this if you are traveling to a popular destination, and add an hour or two to your check-in time to avoid losing your time while waiting in line.

10. Wear comfy clothes.

Don’t hold up the line at security screenings; keep it minimal and practical by wearing comfortable clothing. Things like necklaces, lace-up boots, fashion statements, excessive jewelry, and complicated outfits will delay you and others at the security screening points.

11. Secure your travel documents.

Pack the pertinent travel documentation and ensure all your traveling documents are in order before leaving your house. Use a passport and travel organizer to secure essential documents in one place. Keep it attached to your carry-on bag.

12. Snacks for the trip.

Pack sealed snacks such as chips, baked goods, bread, solid homemade meals, and fruits. Here is s list of foods acceptable on a plane. Be mindful of others and bring food that is not smelly or messy, like tuna or soups. Keep your snacks simple.

13. Items to declare.

If you travel from abroad into the U.S.A. or the other way around, you will be provided a customs declaration form. You must fill out a declaration form and provide it at customs. Because all airports and aircraft are different, ask an airport staff or a police guard to point you in the right direction. These include baby carriers, baby formula, car seats, golf tour bags, snowboards, technical instruments, cash, and expensive gifts, among other things.

14. Carry an empty water bottle.

Water bottles with water are not acceptable through the security screening checkpoint; however, you can always refill them once inside the airport gates.

15. Choose a ride to the airport.

Plan your ride to the airport ahead of time. If you take a car, keep the parking ticket somewhere you will remember. Also, allocate time for the shuttle bus to take you to your gate since it can take time from your flight check-in. If hiring a car service, ensure rides are available close to your location.

16. Mark your bags.

Add tags, stickers, or anything else you can use to identify your travel bag at the conveyor belt and avoid mistakenly taking the wrong bag. If you want to tighten the privacy of your things, add a key or combination lock to your check-in bag.

17. Bring your entertainment.

Examples of things to pack are an e-reader, card game, notepad and pen, downloaded movies, laptop, tablet, or anything else you use to stay distracted. Charge your electronics before your flight to use them throughout your flight.

18. Get comfy.

Planes are uncomfortable. If you are going on a long flight, bring a neck pillow, blanket, blindfold, warm socks, or anything that helps you sleep and relax. The traveling process is already stressful, so it’s good to catch a few hours of sleep while you can.

19. Don’t overpack.

You are responsible for bringing back everything you pack. So do yourself a favor and pack the absolutely necessary and leave space for souvenirs and anything else you buy along your trip.

20. Anxiety, medication, and cabin pressure.

If you take anxiety medication, keep your prescription with you and any other medication you need. In addition, drink water, chew gum, or swallow saliva constantly to avoid the effects of cabin pressure on your ears. If you feel sick, let the airplane staff know, they will help you nurse your flying symptoms.

21. Check pandemic requirements.

While most countries have returned to somewhat normal activities, it’s essential to be informed of the COVID-19 restrictions of the country you are departing from and arriving. In addition, the airline you are traveling with should have information on their website about the requirements of the country you are traveling to.

At the airport:

22. find your check-in counter..

Check-in your bags and find your gate. The airline staff will point you to your gate and give you any information you need for your trip. If you have questions about your trip, COVID-19 restrictions, or connecting flight, this is the right place to ask them. If you’re flying with a lap infant , you might be able to ask the staff for a seat with empty seat next to it.

23. Keep your things with you at all times.

Don’t leave your things, bags, or documents unattended or trust them to others. On that same note, don’t lend your things or hold items for people you don’t know. Finally, if you find unattended bags or suspicious-looking items left behind, don’t pick them up. Instead, report them to the airport staff.

24. Not the place for jokes.

Don’t make inappropriate jokes about the safety of the plane, airport, or your fellow passengers while at the airport or during security screening. No matter how well-meaning you think you are, airport security takes any mention of compromised security seriously.

25. Be ready for the security screening.

When you approach the security screening line, pay attention to the instructions from the staff. Be cooperative. This is why dressing comfortably is practical and packing only the essentials is important, so you don’t take a long time and hogg the line.

Once done, ensure all your belongings and travel documents are in your possession from the trays. Then, make an inventory of the things you took off and the things you got back. If something is missing is probably being inspected by the security staff. You might be pulled to the side and asked questions about it. This is part of the security screening procedures.

26. Find your gate.

If you arrive early, your gate might still need to be announced. Keep an eye on the monitors inside the airport to find the right gate using your flight code. As soon as your gate is announced, head that way. Stay within your gate area and check the flight monitor regularly to see if the gate designated for your flight has changed last minute.

27. Fill up your water bottle.

Once you pass the security screening and are closer to your gate, find a water fountain to fill up your drink.

28. Take a bathroom break.

Airplane bathrooms are small and uncomfortable. Instead, use the restroom at the airport before your flight.

29. Charge your electronics.

Most airplanes have weak power charging stations. So save your battery for the flight or charge your electronics while you wait for your flight at airport charging stations.

30. Last chance to shop.

Ideally, you would get all your snacks outside the airport since it’s more expensive once inside. But things happen, so this will be your last chance to buy snacks, coffee, gum, books, or magazines or check out the duty-free area.

In the plane:

31. board with your zone..

Wait until your boarding zone is announced to get in line to board. The boarding zone will be printed on your ticket. There is an order of things that flows easily if everyone follows the instructions. Avoid waiting in the wrong line by paying attention to the instructions from the flight attendants at the check-in counter.

32. Find your seat.

Make sure you find the right seat. If you didn’t buy a seat with your ticket, you will be given a randomly assigned seat. Ask the flight attendants to help determine if you have a window, middle, or hallway seat.

Some facts about seats for your next trip: economy class usually has 31 in seat pitch, premium economy offers 38 in, and business class boasts 55 in. More about this in our articles:

• Economy vs Premium Economy
• Business Class vs Premium Economy

33. Emergency seats.

If you are assigned a door seat, you need to be mentally and physically capable of following through with the emergency procedures. If you are not ready to assume these responsibilities, let the stewardess know immediately before the flight.

34. Stow away your carry-on bag.

No matter how compact your carry-on is, it has to be in your overhead compartment. Be mindful when loading your things to avoid hitting anyone with your bag when pulling it up or bringing it down. If you see a person struggling to get their bags in the compartment, offer help, this will help the line move along faster.

35. Personal bags go under the seat.

Keep your personal bag under the seat in front of you and keep the walkway tidy for your fellow passengers.

36. Listen to the safety talk.

The stewardess will give a safety talk showing you what to do in an emergency. You must understand the information that she is providing. Read the safety sheet on the backrest before you and obey the seat belt signs.

37. Practice plane etiquette.

Your seat is your personal space. Keep your space tidy. Make conversation if the person next to you is willing to talk. Wear headphones or earbuds to listen to music or watch a movie. Turn off your light at night. If you are traveling with kids, watch them and ensure they don’t physically invade the space of passengers around them.

38. Stretch often.

Keep your blood pumping by doing proper stretches on your seat or walking around the plane every hour if it’s a long flight. You can do many exercises that don’t require you to move from your seat.

39. Recline with caution.

Be mindful of you the person behind you. Even though seats are meant to recline, some people may physically struggle, and having a person recline might confine them to their chair. If you decide to recline up or down, take a moment to look back at the person behind you and do so slowly to give them time to prepare.

40. Alcohol consumption.

The airplane staff will closely monitor those who drink to ensure they don’t disrupt other passengers, start conflict, or create an unsafe environment. Then, the airplane staff can decide if they will stop serving you alcohol and if any other safety measure needs to be taken. Know your limits if you are going to indulge in a drink. Don’t be the drunk passenger on the plane.

41. Respect the flight attendants.

Flight attendants are professionally trained to keep passengers comfortable and safe, among other tasks. They are not maids; treat them with respect.

After landing:

42. don’t leave anything behind..

Do an inventory of your things to ensure you take all your belongings. If you leave any items behind, contact your flight’s airline to report the missing items. The airline will work with you to help you recover them.

43. Don’t push and shove.

The plane disembarks by zones; wait until it’s your turn to get out. Let the ones ahead of you come out before pushing your way through the line. Remember to hold your bags in front of you as you exit the plane to avoid those who are sitting hitting others with them.

44. Connecting flights.

If you have a connecting flight, look at the flight monitors and find your next gate. If you are having issues finding your way ask the airport staff or find your airline’s customer service desk so they can help you be on your way. If an issue with your flight causes you to be late for your connecting flight, go to the airline’s counter, and they will help you fix your problem. This is where your travel insurance and knowing your travel come in handy.

45. Go to baggage claim.

If it’s a national flight, pick up your bags at baggage claim and exit the airport to your destination. However, if it’s an international flight, you must claim your baggage, stop at customs, return the customs declaration forms, and then cross the last baggage check-up.

46. Double check you have the right bag.

Don’t make the mistake of picking up someone else’s bag. Instead, look for the tags you used to identify your bags. If you happen to take someone else’s bag, report it to the airline and return it. If the airline losses or delays your bag, report it at the baggage claim office.

47. Remove airplane tags.

This is the last tip that will prepare you for your next flight but remove any airplane tags from your bags to avoid confusion on your next trip.

In conclusion

Remember, everyone had to fly for the first time at some point, and you might be one of many doing so that day. It will be nerve-wracking and stressful, no matter how prepared you are.

Embrace the challenge, stick to these tips, ask for help if you need to and consider that you are one of many traveling somewhere unknown for the first time; you are not alone.

Related Articles

• Airport Check In: Your 38 Most Asked Questions Answered
• Getting Your Luggage During a Layover: Here’s How
• Business Class vs Premium Economy: Worth The Cost?
• When to Find Cheap Flights – 18 Tips to Get Cheap Tickets
• 12 Best Booking Sites for Flights: Kiwi, Skyscanner, & More

Author:  Arietza Contreras

Arietza C. Camargo was born in Mexico, lived in Houston, TX, and currently resides in Split, Croatia. Arie has a degree in Occupational Safety and Hygiene but discovered her love for writing soon after working in that field. She founded her current blog (Arietza.com) and began a career as a content writer. Today, she is a lifestyle and travel blogger and content writer.

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62 Travel Tips for Your First Trip Abroad

• Facebook 19

I’d like to say that I sort of know what I’m talking about now that I’ve been to 50-ish countries. But just a few years ago, I was setting off on an around-the-world adventure with no set end date. Prior to that, I’d been to only four countries – Canada (a quick weekend trip across the border), Mexico (woohoo senior year!), France (with my parents at age 12), and the Dominican Republic (to a swanky all-inclusive). So describing me as a “travel virgin” wouldn’t have been too far off.

I’d sold all of my worldly possessions and set off for Buenos Aires, Argentina. Only to get mugged at knifepoint five hours after landing. Not that I ever really learn from my mistakes, I still make them regularly. But hopefully, I can impart some of the lessons I’ve learned along the way so that as a first-time traveler you can avoid them.

Check out my list of 62 tips for first-time travelers before you set out on your grand adventure!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: Travel Tips for Your First Trip Abroad !

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

62 Tips for First Time Travelers

Planning and preparing for your trip, money and documents.

• Check your money situation. Does your bank charge international fees? What is their ATM fee situation? When in doubt, bring cash. We love the Charles Schwab debit card that offers zero international fees and refunds all of your ATM fees. But our Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card is best for earning points.
• Release your cards for international use. There’s nothing worse than having a bunch of credit and debit cards, but none that actually work. You’ll need to call your banks and give them a list of the countries you plan to visit.
• Check your passport. Is it valid for at least another six months? If not, you’ll likely be denied entry into another country (they want to make sure you’re going to leave).
• Check your visa requirements. Some countries (like India, Brazil, and Iran) require a pre-arranged visa. If you don’t have it, your trip won’t be fun (because you won’t be allowed into the country).
• Take a photo of your passport and email it to yourself. Just in case.
• Do a little planning. You may be asked by the airline or TSA about where you’re staying and how long you’ll be in the country. It’s smart to have some sort of answers to give them.
• But don’t plan everything down to the minute. If you get somewhere (i.e. a hotel room, a city, or even a country) and don’t love it, it’s nice to have the freedom to leave.
• Make sure you have (or don’t need) proof of onward travel. If you’re headed to an island (like, say, New Zealand or the Bahamas), you must prove that you have a way to get off the island. Or the airline won’t let you check-in.
• But what if I don’t know when I am leaving? Then buy a  refundable  return ticket a few hours before your flight and return it after you land and clear customs (but make sure you return it within the allotted time frame – usually 24 hours).

Clothing, Accessories, and Toiletries

• Not sure whether or not to pack something? Don’t. You can always buy things that you need and forgot (and trust me, you’ll want to shop). The lighter your bag, the better.
• How much underwear are you packing? Double it.  Believe it or not, most hotels don’t want you washing your panties in the bathroom sink. And they run out faster than you think.
• How many pairs of shoes are you packing? Split it in half (not literally, one shoe will do you no good). I can’t think of a single reason you would need to bring more than three pairs of shoes. You should take one pair of flip-flops, one pair of running/walking shoes, and one more of whatever your heart desires.
• Does it wrinkle the second it leaves your body or a hanger? If yes, you’ll never wear it.
• Is it “dry clean only”? If yes, you’ll probably also never wear it.
• Check the weather. It may be 90 degrees during the day and drop to 50 at night. If you don’t have long pants and a sweater, you’ll regret it. And even if there’s only a 10% chance of rain, bring a light rain jacket, just in case.
• Check the “modesty” expectations. If you bring all jean shorts and tank tops to India you will spend most of your vacation feeling extremely out of place. Women are expected to cover their shoulders and their knees in most areas of the country. And in Iran, if you are a woman and your head is not covered, you’ll wind up in jail (tourist or not).
• Hairdryer, curling iron, hair straightener.  You don’t have room for all three, leave one of them at home. (Check out our favorite travel hairdryers )
• Electrical outlet converter. You won’t even be able to use your hair tools unless you have a converter . Luckily, you can generally purchase these at the airport if you forget to plan ahead.

• If you can’t carry your luggage up a flight of stairs without assistance, you’ll be miserable. Trust me, I’ve made this mistake. Once again, the lighter your bag, the better.
• Wheels or no wheels? Depends on where you’re going. If you are headed to a quaint little city with cobblestone streets and lots of stairs or a remote island with a long beach you have to walk down to get to your bungalow, wheels will hinder, rather than help you.
• Add flair to make your luggage stand out.  Makes it easy to spot on the conveyor belt when you land.
• Use a sturdy luggage tag. Make sure your email address is clearly visible on it.
• Pack some essentials in your carry-on. A change of socks and underwear, a sweater, a toothbrush, and travel toothpaste are all essential in the unlikely event of lost baggage.

Do Your Homework

• Download a map of the area you’ll be traveling to so you can access it anytime.  Use the offline maps function in the Google Maps app. Star your hotel and a few good tourist destinations in advance.
• Research the currency and the conversion rate.  And download a currency converter app like Currency XE (iPhone|Android).
• Take a screenshot of a few phrases in the language of the country you’ll be visiting. “Please”, “thank you”, “hello”, and “goodbye” can go a long way. Or better yet, download an offline language pack in the Google Translate app.
• Research how you’re going to get from the airport to your hotel. I don’t trust taxis. Ever. And there have been countless times that I’ve been quoted a taxi rate from the airport and replied “WHAT?!? That’s outrageous!!!” And I’m sure that I’m getting ripped off. Well, maybe I am but maybe I’m not, I should have done my homework. Also, if you’re on a budget, there may be a train or a bus that is much cheaper.
• Check to see if they have Uber or Grab. I don’t fully support Uber’s company practices BUT they are far more cost-effective (and honest) than taxis and they are slowly but surely gaining international exposure. Many countries in Southeast Asia use Grab, the local version of Uber.
• Check the tipping customs. The US is the only country I’ve ever been to where a 20% tip is the norm. 10% is standard in most of Europe and some countries even consider a tip to be insulting!

En Route to your Travel Destination

• Arrive early. At least two hours early for international flights. 1.5 hours for domestic if you’re checking a bag, one hour if you’re not. Most airlines won’t let you check your luggage 45 minutes or less from your flight internationally, 30 minutes domestically.
• Make sure your luggage is less than 50 pounds (WHY would you bring 50 pounds of crap with you on vacation?!?). Also, check that your carry-on bags are small enough to fit in their size guides (they rarely check but you don’t want to be the one that gets caught).
• Tuck in your straps. Coming from someone who just had a strap aggressively ripped off of her bag during transit, the airlines don’t make bag repair easy on you.
• Flying on a budget carrier like Spirit? They normally have additional costs for checked AND carry-on luggage. And they charge more if you pay at the airport rather than in advance. Either purchase online ahead of time or pack incredibly light. Read the small print – they are budgeted for a reason.
• Bring snacks (especially if you have any dietary restrictions). Meals are rarely served on domestic flights. Also, it can take a while to get your meal on international flights, especially if there’s turbulence.
• Bring water. Budget airlines don’t really do a beverage service unless you want to pay extra.
• Bring a jacket. And socks. Airplanes love to blast the air conditioning.
• Bring some entertainment. You never know if a plane will offer movies (although most international flights do). Bring a book or download a few podcasts to keep you from going stir crazy.
• Bring your toothbrush and travel toothpaste. After a long journey, your breath will frighten small children.
• Be nice to your flight attendants. Even if they’re not nice to you. They are like the gods of the sky.
• When speaking with border officials, less is more. Answer questions truthfully but don’t volunteer information that they’re not asking for.

Overcoming Jet Lag

• Stay awake until the bedtime of your new time zone. Force yourself. If you allow yourself a nap, you’ll regret it. And then get a full eight hours if you can.

Upon Arrival at Your Destination

Try to Blend in with the Locals

• While many people in the world do know the English language, many do not. Don’t expect everyone to speak in your preferred dialect (refer to the bullet point above about learning a few key phrases).
• Money belts are pretty silly. Plus you have to dig in there all the time to get your money out which takes away some (all) of the mystery. People aren’t going to be digging around in your pockets or your purse unless YOU are being careless and/or drunk. Just carry your money in whatever vessel you use at home.
• Go with the flow. Buses will be late. You’ll make mistakes. Travel isn’t perfect, don’t expect it to go exactly the way you planned.
• Get to know the locals.
• Get to know other travelers. 
• Eat the local specialties. Try food that you’re not used to eating, at least once.
• Take public transportation. Is it annoying? Definitely, sometimes. But it can also be way cheaper and incredibly entertaining. It’s a great way to get a better feel for the city or country in which you’re traveling.
• Say ‘yes” to new adventures. Because no great story ever started with “No thanks, I have a long day of visiting museums tomorrow”.
• See the best in everyone. Most people aren’t out to get you, I promise.

• Don’t carry your passport around with you. Your passport is literally the most important thing that you have when you travel. If you lose it, it’s a serious pain in the ass. In the unlikely event that you DO get mugged (or more likely, just drink too much and misplace your stuff), better for your passport to be safe and sound back in your hotel room.
• Unfortunately, scams happen everywhere (even in your hometown). Be aware, but don’t be paranoid. A few easy ways to avoid scams: only take taxis on the meter (or negotiate like crazy), count your change, beware of overly helpful people who are probably just out for a tip, and ask the price before committing to buying (or eating) anything or going anywhere.
• Just because you can act a certain way at home, doesn’t mean you can here. Unfortunately for women, we don’t have the same rights in many countries that we do in the US. That means that we are kindly requested (required) to cover up and are often frowned upon if seen drinking alcohol in public. Don’t try to be a one-person protest during your vacation.
• Ask for help when you need it. Most locals love foreigners. They genuinely want to interact with you and are happy to help you when you need it. Unfortunately, some do see you as a dollar sign, but they are the minority.
• Give a firm “NO” when necessary. Got a creep following you around trying to “help”? Someone won’t leave you alone? Does a tout want to sell you something that you’re not interested in buying? Trust your gut and don’t be afraid to firmly say “NO”.
• Check with your hotel/hostel staff on any dangerous areas of the city. This isn’t super relevant in most cities, but I found it to be incredibly helpful in South America. One hostel owner in Colombia warned us not to take a certain street due to a “bad man on the corner”. It never hurts to ask.

Take a Chill Pill

• Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. 
• Don’t let one bad experience taint you or your trip. 
• Don’t expect to see EVERYTHING. Focus on meeting people and having fun rather than on visiting every single museum and cultural site.
• Trust your intuition. 
• Let your friends and family know your general itinerary, but make sure they don’t freak out if they don’t hear from you every few hours.  

Have a blast on your first big trip abroad!!!

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About the Author:

Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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10 thoughts on “62 travel tips for your first trip abroad”.

Awesome list! Super comprehensive, I’m really impressed you managed to get all of this in one place. Also, love the tip about doubling the amount of underwear. So valid.

Great post, I wish I had some of these told to me before my first trip! You learn along the way though and it’s all good experience!

Thanks for the list, as someone who often forgets to carry toiletries and then has to scramble to get them at an Airbnb, this was a good reminder.

Great general round up of tips for first-time travelers! Wish I had this before my first trip abroad.

This is the list for the world traveler. Evereyone should read this well-structured and very helpful post before travelling. Great work!

This is one of those blog posts that you automatically pin for reference!! I love the deets! Did not know about the underwear bit…how do these hotels know you’ve washed your underwear in their sink?

When you have the undies hanging from every hook, hanger, and window in your room to dry! Lol

great tips, and also great pictures! I totally agree on the packing – always remove some things – you never end up needing all of it, except for the underwear (and maybe bikinis 😉 ).

This is a pretty comprehensive list indeed. I love your outlook. shit happens sometimes on the road. I’ve been scammed a bit. Haven’t been mugged but yea, I definitely have a list in my head when I’m going to a Foreign place where I don’t speak the language, and I try to wear my Confident and FUCK YEA I KNOW WHAT I’M DOING face the whole way. If i can maintain it, it works wonders sometimes!!

Very informative and descriptive post. I missed so many of them in my early travel days. Your pictures are beautiful and I loved the one just outside the plan. Keep exploring

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31 First Time Flying Tips: Your Guide to a Stress-Free Flight [2024]

• Updated January 28, 2024
• Posted in Travel Planning
• Tagged as Airplane Travel , Travel Organization

Welcome! If you’re about to embark on your first-ever flight, congratulations! Air travel can be an exciting and rewarding experience, opening up a world of new possibilities.

It’s natural, however, to feel a little anxious or uncertain, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the ins and outs of flying.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ve gathered 31 invaluable first time flying tips to help make your journey as smooth, stress-free, and enjoyable as possible!

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links , which just means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you!

Table of Contents

Planning Tips

Airport tips, money saving tips, entertainment tips, relaxation tips, our first time flying tips, 1. pack light.

We recommend weighing your checked luggage before leaving the house. Most airlines charge for any type of checked bag , and some airlines even charge for carry-on luggage.

It’s best to head over to the airline’s specific website to check the weight and size restrictions. When checking luggage, it’s very important to make sure you don’t exceed the weight restriction.

• Weigh your bag at home (or even while on vacation) using a luggage scale ( we prefer digital )!!
• Tip: If your bag exceeds the weight limit, redistribute some of the items between your checked and carry-on luggage.

2. Check the TSA Guidelines

• Check the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines for what is allowed in your carry-on luggage.
• Know what you can check vs carry on the airplane
• Pack your carry-on with extra clothing, toiletries, and medications (in case luggage is lost)
• Know the liquid restrictions: all liquids must be packaged in a 3.4oz container inside a quart-sized bag.

Knowing the TSA guidelines will save you time and prevent any unnecessary hold-ups at security.

3. Avoid Black Luggage

We’ve found that more colorful bags are, not only unique, but easier to recognize and keep track of in the airport.

For bags that you plan on checking, traveling is much simpler when your bags aren’t easily confused with other similar looking luggage. And most checked bags, from our experience, seem to be a darker color.

Don’t own colorful luggage? There are some ways to make your black bag stand out!

• Try using a brightly colored luggage strap
• Tie a colored ribbon to the handle

4. Choose Your Seat Wisely

If you choose the wrong seat, your flight may not be as enjoyable. Deciding on a seat where you can catch beautiful scenic views or one where you can stretch your legs can have a huge impact on your trip.

• For a short flight: choose the window seat for the views!
• For a longer flight: choose an aisle seat for that extra leg room!

5. Research Your Airline’s Policies

Every airline has their own set of rules and policies regarding baggage fees, flight changes, and cancellations. Become familiar with these so you aren’t surprised at the airport by any unexpected expenses.

Here are some things (not an exhaustive list) that you can research beforehand:

• Baggage Allowance (Number of bags, size restrictions, baggage fees)
• Check-in options
• Boarding zones/processes
• Security guidelines by TSA
• Complimentary services provided by airline (meals, entertainment, Wi-Fi)

6. Consider Wearing Compression Socks

Compression socks are designed to improve circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. This is done by applying gradual pressure to your legs and helping to move blood back up to your heart.

During a flight, the reduced air pressure and limited mobility can cause blood to pool in your legs, leading to swelling and discomfort. I’ve found that wearing compression socks (particularly on longer flights > 5 hours) makes a big difference in how my legs feel.

You most likely can find the compression socks you need online or at your local pharmacy. If you have any circulatory disorder, however, we recommend consulting with your doctor first!

7. Pack Valuables/Essentials in Carry-On Luggage

We always keep our passport, ID, travel documents, medicine, electronics, an extra pair of clothes, and any valuable items in our carry-on.

In case our checked baggage gets lost or delayed (which rarely happens, but you never know), having these essentials with us means we can still carry on without much hassle.

It’ll make your trip much more enjoyable!

8. Keep Your Passport, ID, and Boarding Pass Readily Accessible

It’s really important to keep your passport, ID, and boarding pass readily accessible to ensure a smooth check-in process .

Having these documents close by also allows for a quick response to unexpected situations and easy proof of identity and travel authorization .

I found these super cute passport holders that I carry with us whenever we travel! I love how they have a place to hold our COVID-19 vaccinations card as well.

9. Keep Track of Lost Luggage

Consider investing in an AirTag if loosing luggage is a fear of yours.

What is an AirTag?

• Small tracking device developed by Apple that you can attach to your luggage to keep track of its location
• The Find My app on your iPhone or iPad can be used to locate the AirTag on your luggage
• Lost Mode can be enabled in the Find My app, allowing you to see the last known location of your AirTag on a map and receive alerts when its location is updated
• If your lost luggage with AirTag is found, the AirTag can be scanned with an iPhone or NFC-enabled device to view your contact information

10. Arrive Early

If it’s your first time flying, arriving early at the airport can help reduce any stress and anxiety. Unexpected delays, like long lines for check-in or security, can occur, so it’s wise to give yourself extra time to handle them without worrying about missing your flight.

• Arrive at least 1-2 hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights.
• Arrive 3 hours before your scheduled departure time for international flights.
• Airlines start boarding about 30 minutes before departure.

By arriving early, you’ll give yourself enough time to navigate the airport, find your gate, and get settled before boarding begins.

11. Check in Online

Checking in online before your first flight can help make the check-in process at the airport smoother and less stressful. When you check in online, you can usually select your seat and print your boarding pass ahead of time , which can save you time and hassle at the airport.

Typically, you can check in starting 24 hours before boarding time. Go to the specific airline’s website and follow the prompts. It will guide you through the process! To save time, check in online!

If you choose to check in online, you should still be early for your flight. You don’t want to risk missing your departure time!

12. Use the Restroom before Boarding

We strongly recommend that you use the restroom prior to boarding.

This is something that we do before all flights, even if we don’t have to go to the bathroom at that time. Since you’re going to want to stay hydrated on your flight, using the bathroom prior to boarding may help lessen the number of times you have to go in flight.

If your flight is short, you may be in luck and not even have to use the plane’s restroom.

If you do need to go on board, you won’t be able to use the restroom immediately. You’ll have to wait until the plane has taken off, leveled off, and the pilot has turned of the seat belt sign.

13. Sign Up For Frequent Flyer Programs

Signing up for frequent flyer programs is a great idea, especially since it’s usually a free perk!

Frequent Flyer Program Perks:

• Earn points or miles for flights and redeem them for free travel or upgrades
• Priority services
• Access to airport lounges
• Special promotions

If you’re a loyal customer, you can quickly earn points or miles towards your next flight. If you tend to price shop, it’ll take a bit longer to redeem points for any travel upgrades.

14. Book Flights in Advance

The earlier you book your flights, the cheaper they tend to be. We also like to book our trips earlier so we can secure our preferred travel dates and destinations.

While we book our trips over a year in advance, we recommend booking any domestic flight 2-3 months in advance and any international trips 6 months in advance to get the best deals.

15. Use Price Comparison Websites

When we’re looking for the best deals on flights, hotels, and other travel services, we find using price comparison websites extremely helpful.

These websites gather information from different airlines, hotels, and travel agencies, making it easy for us to compare prices and find the most affordable options . It saves us a lot of time and effort , as we can quickly see the prices from multiple sources all in one place!

They also offer additional features like flexible date searches and fare alerts , which are really useful when we’re trying to find the best deals.

Price Comparison Websites To Try:

16. Fly Budget Airlines

Opting to fly with budget airlines, such as JetBlue, Southwest, or Spirit Airlines can be a smart choice if you’re looking to save money.

• More affordable ticket prices
• Customizable ticket options
• Fewer in-flight amenities
• Reduced legroom
• Stricter baggage allowance
• Additional fees may apply for services like seat selection or checked baggage

For short flights, flying budget airlines may be a good choice . For longer trips, you may want to opt for an airline that offers some more amenities and better leg room.

17. Pack Snacks

Bringing your own snacks on board a plane can help you save money, ensure that you have access to food that you like, and make your flight more comfortable and enjoyable.

Depending on the airline and the length of your flight, options for in-flight meals and snacks can be limited . Airline food is also not the healthiest . The food can be high in salt, sugar, and preservatives.

Lastly, food in the airport and in-flight can be pricey . If you’re looking for a budget-friendly travel tip, we recommend packing your own snacks and not purchasing the over priced airport food.

In-flight Snack Options:

• Granola bars
• Dried fruit
• Food without nuts (Passengers on-board may have a nut allergy)

18. Use a Travel Rewards Credit Card

When you use a travel rewards credit card for your flight purchases, you can e arn points, miles, or cash back that can be redeemed for various travel-related expenses . By using the card for everyday expenses and paying off the balance in full each month, you can accumulate rewards quickly.

Before choosing a travel rewards credit card, compare the available options and consider factors such as annual fees, interest rates, rewards programs, and any additional perks offered.

Look for cards that align with your travel preferences and offer rewards that are valuable to you.

19. Use Points to Pay for Your Flight

Many airlines and credit card companies offer reward programs that allow you to accumulate points or miles based on your spending or travel activities. These points can then be redeemed to cover the cost of your flight.

Before booking your flight, check if you have any accumulated points or miles that can be used towards the ticket price . Most airlines have loyalty programs that offer various benefits, including the ability to use points for flights. You can also explore credit cards that offer travel rewards and sign-up bonuses, which can help you earn points more quickly.

Using points to pay for your flight can save you a significant amount of money , especially if you’ve been accumulating points over time.

20. Bring a Book or E-Reader

Bringing a book or e-reader on your flight is a good way to keep yourself entertained and makes time go by faster. It’s also a great way to take your mind off of any nervousness you might feel about flying.

If you forget your favorite novel, you can probably buy a magazine or book from one of the shops in the airport (unless you’re flying at odd hours) .

If you’re looking to save money, bringing your own book is the way to go!

21. Download Movies and/or TV Shows Before Your Flight

Many airlines offer in-flight entertainment, but it’s always a good idea to have backup entertainment options.

Before your trip, use streaming platforms like Netflix , Amazon Prime Video , or Disney+ to download your favorite movies or TV shows onto your device. This way, you won’t have to rely on an internet connection or the in-flight entertainment system to enjoy your preferred content.

Remember to charge your device fully before the flight and bring any necessary chargers or power banks to keep your device powered throughout the journey!

22. Listen to Music or Podcasts

Before your flight, create a playlist of your favorite songs or podcasts that you’ve been wanting to listen to. Music can be uplifting and help relax your mind, while podcasts can be informative or entertaining.

Using your own headphones , you can escape into the world of music or immerse yourself in interesting podcast episodes.

It’s a great way to engage yourself during the flight and distract from any nervousness or anxiety you may have about flying.

23. Bring Your Own Headphones

Most airlines provide headphones for in-flight entertainment, but they may not be the most comfortable or have the best sound quality. By bringing your own headphones, you can enjoy your favorite music, movies, or shows with better sound clarity and a more personalized experience.

If possible, I recommend using over-ear or noise-canceling headphones . They can help block out the noise of the aircraft and create a more immersive and enjoyable audio experience. If you prefer earbuds, make sure they fit well and provide good sound quality.

• Be prepared for the two-pin socket utilized by most aircrafts . For this reason, you’ll probably need to invest in a converter if you plan to using your own headphones with the aircraft’s inflight entertainment system.

24. Avoid Ear Pain

The change in air pressure can cause pressure to build up in the ears, resulting in discomfort or even pain.

Ways to relieve ear discomfort:

• Chewing gum or sucking on hard candy can really help.
• Yawn or swallow frequently during takeoff and landing to keep the Eustachian tubes open and release the pressure
• Valsalva maneuver : Pinch your nostrils and gently blow air through your nose
• Earplugs designed for flying that can help regulate the air pressure in your ears
• Stay hydrated to prevent dryness and ear discomfort

25. Combat Anxiety

If you’re feeling anxious about flying, you’re not alone! Do some relaxation exercises before flying to help yourself feel calmer.

• Deep breathing
• Visualization exercises as a form of meditation
• Distraction techniques – reading a book, listening to music, watching a moving during the flight

If your anxiety is more severe, you may want to consider talking to your doctor or a mental health professional about therapy and/or medication options.

26. Know The Trick to Jet Lag

Jet lag occurs when you quickly travel to a new time zone, causing fatigue and insomnia. Nothing is worse than getting to your destination and being completely exhausted.

When traveling to new time zones, our internal clocks get mixed up, partially due to a difference in the exposure of light. One way to alleviate this is by getting outside soon after flying.

Exposure to daylight reduces melatonin that is produced, a natural hormone that makes you sleepy when released. By effecting the release of melatonin, sunlight exposure can help you stick to the schedule in your new time zone.

There are also melatonin products that you can help to help you sleep if you’re struggling to do so.

Also, it’s important to stay hydrated. Dehydration can make jet lag worse!

27. Dress Comfortably

It’s very rare that I “dress to impress” when flying. Wearing comfortable clothing and shoes can greatly enhance your travel experience.

• Wear loose-fitting clothing so you can easily move around and get comfortable on the plane
• Wear comfortable shoes ! You’ll need a pair of shoes that can easily be taken on and off to go through security, but you should also be prepared to walk long distances through the airport
• And layer! The temperature on airplanes always vary. Be sure to carry a lightweight jacket in case you’re cold.

28. Stay Hydrated

Airplanes can be dehydrating, so be sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight. Whenever we fly, I like to bring an empty water bottle with me. Once we get through the security line, I can fill up my bottle at the next water fountain.

Not only will this save you money in the airport, but it will also come in handy when cruising and just traveling in general. I’ve trialed several types of water bottles and have found ones that are lighter weight , can be clipped or attached , and portable the most convenient for vacations. I even found one that is collapsible and will easily fit inside of book bags and purses!

Travel tip: Bring an empty water bottle to fill up once you pass security.

29. Listen to the Safety Briefing

Listening to the safety briefing on the airplane can help calm your nerves during a flight, especially if this is your first time flying!

When the flight attendants begin the briefing, make a conscious effort to pay attention and follow along. They will provide important information about the safety features of the aircraft and the procedures to follow in case of an emergency.

By familiarizing yourself with these details, you’ll gain a better understanding of the safety measures in place, which can help alleviate any anxiety or fear you may have.

30. Use a Calming App

If you’re flying for the first time and are experiencing some anxiety, you can try downloading a calming app to your phone to promote relaxation. The apps offer guided meditations, soothing sounds, and/or breathing exercises that are designed specifically for stress reduction.

Some apps you can download are:

• Flying with Claustrophobia

31. Bring a Neck Pillow and Blanket

There’s nothing worse than being cold or uncomfortable on a flight. A good idea is to bring some versatile pieces, like a sarong , that can be used as a blanket and re-worn outdoors.

An extra pair of socks is also nice to have. In addition to the compression socks, why not bring some big and fluffy socks to keep your toes warm?! This is especially helpful on those really long flights!

We hope these first time flying tips will relieve any anxiety and nervous energy you may be experiencing. Have fun and safe travels!

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And please do me a little favor and share this article with others, for there’s a good chance that it will help them with their travels !

First Time Flying Tips FAQ’s

What must you do 30 minutes before a flight.

Before a flight, there are important tasks to complete around 30 minutes prior to departure. Check-in, go through security, keep your boarding pass and ID accessible, arrive at the boarding gate, inquire about seat availability, prepare your carry-on items, and stay updated on any announcements.

Arriving early and allowing extra time is crucial for a smooth travel experience.

Do I really need to arrive 2 hours before a flight?

The recommended arrival time before a flight is generally at least 1-2 hours before the scheduled departure time. While it may not always be necessary to arrive a full 2 hours before, it’s still important to allow enough time for check-in, security screening, and potential unforeseen circumstances.

Do I need to print my boarding pass?

Printing your boarding pass is not always necessary. Many airlines now offer electronic boarding passes, which can be accessed and displayed on your smartphone or mobile device. These electronic boarding passes usually include a barcode or QR code that can be scanned at various checkpoints throughout your journey, including security and boarding gates.

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50 Travel Tips for First Time Travelers

W hen you are planning your first trip abroad, it’s an exciting but also nerve-wracking experience. For those who have never traveled before, you’ll soon learn that the world out there is a vastly different and fascinating place that’s different from where you grew up.

To make sure you make the most out of your first travel adventure, we have some tips for first time travelers to help you make the most of your experience – and to make sure you don’t make the same mistakes we did!

Not knowing how to travel and not knowing what you’re getting into can be dangerous. It can lead you to commit many cultural faux pas, or make a mistake that can cost you money, or your safey.

But don’t let that put you off. Traveling gives back so much more than you can ever imagine.

Below is my advice for first time travelers. If you follow these tips, you’re in for an incredible experience!

Travel Tips for First Time Travelers

Below are some of my top tips and words of advice for anyone planning their first time travel adventures…

1. Don’t expect things to be like they are at home.

The big appeal to travel is to visit places that are completely different to back home.

Take time to navigate your way around your new environment, learn the ways of the metro, research local customs, and after a few days you’ll find yourself fitting in.

2. Travel with your eyes wide open

You won’t see much if you walk around looking at the floor. Keep your head up, your eyes open , and take in as much as you can.

You never know what you will discover when you take time to notice things.

3. Be open to learn new things

You’ll find when you visit another country, the locals love to share their country and culture with you.

If you are open to trying new things and learning new ways of life, then you will find opportunities for doing this.

4. Don’t judge, instead say, “Isn’t that interesting? Tell me more.”

Just because people do things differently to you, doesn’t make it wrong. Be understanding that other countries operate in a different way to you.

Every country has a different economic status, different levels of wealth, different traditions, customs, beliefs and ideals.

This means they have different methods for doing things.

It’s easy to get frustrated, and sometimes the new way isn’t as efficient as your way, but usually there is a reason for this. Be open minded and consider why things are different.

5. Learn the basics of the local language

Learning simple phrases, such as how to say hello and thank you, can go a long way.

Use them often. It is the best way to show respect, break down barriers and start conversations.

6. Manners are universal, use them

Kindness can get you far in another country. You may come into situations where you need to ask for help from someone (who may not speak the same language as you).

If you approach with a smile, then chances are more people will be willing to help you.

7. Do not shout at others, they are not deaf, they just can’t understand you

I see this so often with travelers. It’s so easy to get frustrated when someone can’t understand you, and we are all guilty of getting frustrated.

But take a step back and think about the situation. Are you using the most basic language? Do you really need to get upset?

Try to have some empathy when communicating with people.

Google translate is going to be your new best friend and will help with this.

8. NEVER complain that the people of the country you are visiting do not speak English

There is a worldwide expectation, usually from English speakers, that everyone in the world should speak English.

This is one misconception about travel that I wish people would get down from their high horses from.

There are some parts of the world where English is not widely spoken, and it’s usually because the people have not been given the opportunity to receive English language lessons .

This may be because English speakers don’t visit this part of the country or because of social or economic reasons.

There are many reasons why people don’t speak English. Do not assume that they are not refusing to speak in English because they are stubborn, they simply just don’t know, and this needs to be accepted.

Again, use Google translate to help you out.

9. Bargain, it is an expected part of a transaction

Bargaining, or haggling, is part of the fun of travel. Though be mindful that this is really only accepted in market setting.

You cannot walk into a H&M in France and expect them to lower the price.

10. Do not over bargain

That being said, don’t bargain for the sake of it. If 50 cents is nothing to you, then why argue over it?

50 cents may mean a days worth of meals to the person you are haggling with.

You should bargain to get a good deal, not for the sake of it.

11. Respect local customs

It is not about your way, you are the visitor. When you visit someone else’s country, you should abide by their laws and customs.

Don’t go to a predominantly Muslim country and walk around in hot pants because that’s what you do back home.

It’s not just about not causing offence to the locals, but you can also break laws by not following the local customs and land yourself in a lot of trouble

12. Know your limits when out drinking

Party yes. Have fun yes, but do not go so far to extremes that it means you trash the local area, or worse, get into an accident that could be fatal.

Many travelers, particularly young backpackers on their gap year, fall into this all the time.

They get too drunk, or go on a boozy tour, and think they are superman. Remember you’re not invincible.

13. Leave a good impression of your culture on the countries you are visiting

Remember when you’re traveling that you are a representative for your own country.

Sadly, stereotypes can have a huge affect on traveling. You may be judged based on the actions of other travelers from your country – whether they are good or bad.

If you find you’re being judged harshly, don’t get frustrated with it, instead try to change the narrative. Kindness goes a long way when you’re traveling.

14. Have off the beaten path adventures

Sticking to the tourist trails and usual itineraries are great for those who are nervous, but once you have found your feet, I encourage you to get off the beaten path a bit.

This will allow you to see a place from a new angle and get more authenticity. Of course, enjoy traveling to the touristy stuff too – just add a different angle to it.

15. Leave your ego at home

Don’t think you are so awesomely cool just because you’ve visited 58 countries on a budget of $25 a day and all you do is go off the beaten path like a real hard-core traveler does.

Traveling has been glorified because of social media, but no one likes an arrogant traveler.

Be humble, understand that traveling is a blessing and not accessible to everyone. You are lucky to travel, so make the most of the experience and don’t try to get competitive about it.

16. Ignore everyone else’s opinion

Travel in a style that is in alignment with your values and suits your likes and interests. If you want to book a group tour or guided tour, go ahead.

You don’t have to travel solo because it’s popular. You do you.

17. Start travelling when you are young

There are many reasons why you should start traveling when you’re young , but one of the biggest reasons is because you have the energy to.

I’m not talking about physical fitness (though that does come into play a bit) but I’m talking about your mind.

When you get older, things become less impressive. There I said it. When you are young, everything is so exciting and so refreshing.

When you travel later in life, you expect more and so things become less powerful.

18. Don’t let people put you off

Don’t listen to the naysayers and dream-stealers telling you why you can’t live your dreams and how you should conform.

19. Eat street food

It won’t kill you. In fact, there are many reasons why you should eat street food. In Southeast Asia countries such as Thailand, street food is part of the norm.

Don’t think eating on the street is dirty. In fact, it could be cleaner than some restaurants.

Just know what to look for – make sure they are cooking on an open fire, there are a lot of locals eating there, there are plastic stools to sit on to eat, and as a bonus, if the chef is an old grandma you know it’s going to be food.

20. Try different local dishes

Ditch the Western diet, you can eat this anytime. When you travel, try the local food.

Of course, if you’re traveling to Western Europe, you can eat pizza in Italy and baguettes in front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris , but what I mean is trying to eat food that’s local to that country.

21. It’s okay to feel uncomfortable, it is how you grow

Everyone gets into situations that they are not comfortable in. This is a learning experience and while it’s not fun at the time, you will learn from it.

22. Be flexible, it is the best way to adapt

This goes back to what I said earlier about accepting how things operate differently.

If you are someone who likes routine, or has a strict itinerary marked down to specific times, you are going to struggle.

Even those who travel for years on end will find that their itineraries never go to plan because of unforeseen circumstances – maybe a bus breaks down, or the route to a place is longer than you thought.

It’s ok to have an itinerary but be flexible. Understand that because things operate differently, it will make it hard for you to stick to it 100%.

23. Ask for help when you need it

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Most people, especially locals, are accommodating to tourists and know that things are different for them.

Even if you struggle to communicate, use hand gestures, bottle language, and sign language and charades to help you.

Or get Google translate.

24. Carry palm cards with important phrases written on it in the local language

Not may people recommend this, but those people probably haven’t travelled as much as us!

Palm cards are a life saver, especially when visiting a country where you know English isn’t widely spoken. It’s also an excellent idea if you have allergies or medical conditions.

This essential for vegetarians in China.

25. Don’t be afraid to respectfully say no

No more words are needed. You don’t have to do everything, agree to everything. You have the freedom to say no.

26. Take part in local customs

If the chef of a village offers you rice wine shots at 10am after a morning hike so you can chase away any evil spirits you are carrying, do not be afraid to say YES.

27. Talk to the local people

Be friendly. It’s amazing what you will learn.

28. Pack lightly

You don’t need to take as much stuff as you think you do. Too many travelers carry multiple jackets, or think “I’ll just take a sweater incase it’s cold” when they are visiting Kenya in Africa.

You should pack underwear, two pairs of shoes (one pair of trainers for walking, and one pair of flip flops or sandles for when it rains or wlaking around a hostel), socks, and a few pairs of clothes.

That’s all you really need. Leave JEANS at home. They are heavy and bulky and in most places are uncomfortable.

In fact, we usually travel with a carry-on bag to save on checked baggage fees.

29. Smile smile smile

And laugh often – you’ll meet so many new friends this way.

30. Do one thing each day that scares you

Push those comfort barriers a little further out each time. It’s great to get out of your comfort zone.

31. Try to make friends

Share and mingle with other travellers. It will give you a feeling of always being among friends.

32. Celebrate local events and festivals

There is no better way to experience a country than attending a festival. Some of the most bucket list experiences are engaging in festivals, such as Songkran in Thailand or Holi in India.

Get involved with the local culture in their traditional manners.

Check out this list of fun festivals around the world

33. Learn about other religions

You may not necessarily to believe something new, but to understand and perhaps to bring light unto your own beliefs.

34. Don’t rely on technology to help get you around

You may be surprised to learn that Google doesn’t know everything. Don’t rely on Google Maps to show you the way, and don’t expect all information you read online to be accurate.

Your biggest resource for information is the locals, your hotel reception, and local visitor centers and tourist information centers.

35. Travel for longer in fewer places

You will have a more enriching experience if you stay in one place for longer, rather than rushing to fit it all in.

If you can, travel slow . This will allow you to really get to know a place and discover the best places to suit your vibe.

36. Don’t be afraid to take each day as it comes with limited plans

You don’t need an itinerary to travel for most places. You can simply rock up and see what the day has in store for you.

37. Guard your passport with your life

Don’t ever give it to US immigration for visa extension because they somehow think you don’t need it to leave the country and won’t return it to you.

You should also never use it as a deposit for renting a scooter or car. Carry copies of your passport as well.

38. Have travel insurance

It ain’t sexy, but neither is the thousands you could end up paying if you don’t have travel insurance .

39. If you get robbed or bad things happen, don’t get hung up on it.

As long as you are safe and well, let it go and continue to enjoy yourself.

40. Learn how to toilet squat. You’ll need it.

I won’t say more here. Just, follow this advice.

41. Don’t be afraid to blow the budget on those once in a lifetime experiences

Remember travel is a blessing and not everyone has the means to do it. Don’t feel guilty about it, just do it while you can.

Whether it’s going on safaris or taking a hot air balloon ride, this is the only chance you’ll get.

42. If you are really hating it, then change direction

If you go somewhere and it’s not what you thought it would be like, then just move on. Don’t feel like you have to stay.

43. Be prepared for reverse culture shock

Most people don’t realize this, but when you travel, your mind changes when you get back.

You’ll realize things about your home that you didn’t realize before. Be warned that when you return home as it could really mess you up.

Don’t miss these tips for dealing with reverse culture shock.

44. Always check visa requirements

Don’t assume because you have an American or UK passport you don’t need a visa. You might, and you will land yourself in trouble if you don’t come prepared.

45. Get a microfiber towel

They dry faster and pack smaller. You’ll save space and time.

46. Use packing cubes

Another travel hack to help you pack light and make sure you don’t travel with endless pieces of luggage is to use packing cubes . They help organize your stuff and make everything more accessible.

See more packing tips here.

47. Get a reusable water bottle

Most hotels and hostels have a water filter or drinking water tap you can use. Save yourself money, and save the environment, by refilling a water bottle.

48. Buy toiletries when you get there

If you want to travel light, you will want to travel hand luggage only. Don’t waste money on those small 100ml bottles for your liquids, just buy it when you get there.

The world is not so remote that you can’t find toothpaste abroad.

49. Pack earplugs

Whether you’re on an international flight or staying in a hostel, you will find that there will always be a time when you need earplugs.

You may also want to get a travel pillow and eye mask for flights too.

50. Get a travel credit card

There are so many cards out there you can choose from, but I highly recommend you get a travel credit card that allows you to save on foreign transaction fees. It’s best to choose a travel credit card that allows you to earn bonuses, collect lots of points on everyday purchases, and gives you lots of travel rewards and credits. The Points Guy is the best resource to help you with that.

Solo Travel Tips

Need more advice about solo travel? Check out these posts…

• 18 ways to save money on accommodation
• 21 ways to find cheap flights
• 16 Ways To Earn More Money For Travel
• Why create a Travel Bucket List
• 10 Principles to Make Your Travels Memorable – Our Travel Manifesto
• 6 jobs you can do overseas
• 52 Ways to Save Money on Travel
• 21 ways life after travel can be difficult
• 32 Travel Tips for a Cheaper and Deeper Experience

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Fear of Flying

Hypnosis for Fear of Flying

Medications for fear of flying.

• Virtual Reality for Fear of Flying
• SOAR Review

What is Turbulence?

• Small Airplane Statistics

How Safe are Airplanes and Air Travel?

• What is Acrophobia?
• What is Agoraphobia?
• What is Claustrophobia?
• What is Mysophobia?

What is Aviophobia?

• Childrens’ Fear of Flying
• TSA Tips for First Time Flyers
• Celebrities Afraid of Flying
• Fear of Flying Apps
• Clear Airport Security Review
• First Time Flying: Tips on Booking, the Airport, and the Flight

Affiliate Disclosure: We may use affiliate links on this page that lead to Amazon or other partners. If you make a purchase after clicking on a link on this page, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Part of the fear of flying is actually a fear of the unknown. If you are flying for the first time—whether for business or pleasure—this includes not knowing what to expect at the airport or while you are in the air.

This step-by-guide spells out everything the nervous first-time flyer needs to know, from booking the flight to navigating the airport to getting situated onto the plane. 

We've packed in our best travel tips for first-time flyers based on the collective experience of our staff, so climb aboard and let's get you ready for the flight!

These flight tips cover most major airlines like American, United, Delta, Southwest, etc. For budget airlines like Frontier or Allegiant, you'll see some variance in items like luggage fees, in-flight accommodations, etc. 

Boarding procedures, safety instructions, and other instructions as they relate to the safety of staff and the passengers remain relatively standard. 

Booking the Flight

The first step in the flying process is purchasing tickets. To book the flight, most people purchase their tickets online through airline or travel sites or their mobile apps. The only thing you have to fear in this step is expensive ticket prices. Otherwise, it is a relatively easy process that you can handle yourself.

Directly through the Airline

In terms of convenience, booking directly through an airline's website is the easiest route. If there are any ticket price changes between the time you book and the time your flight departs, you can usually have that difference refunded with a quick call to customer service.

It's also easier to get better seats and address flight delays, changes, or cancellations when booking direct. Otherwise, you might be referred back to your travel agency, which is another cumbersome step to have to take when you're having problems with your flight. 

It's a little extra work on the front end, but for first-time flyers, this gives you added flexibility just in case something were to go wrong. 

PRO-TIP: Add your airline's phone number to your contacts and jot down important info like flight numbers, confirmation numbers, etc. in the notes app on your phone.

Just in case something does go wrong, having all of this info readily available will help solve problems faster.

Through a Travel Agency

There are some instances where booking through a travel agency is the better option. Specifically, if you are planning an international trip or one that is more complex than a week-long vacation in the United States, a travel agency can be a big help. 

OTA's, that's Online Travel Agencies, are sites like Orbitz, Trivago, Kayak, Booking.com, Expedia, and others. 

What's the difference between them? 

Spoiler alert - not much. In fact, the majority of these sites are all owned by four or so big players. 

Why use an online travel agency? 

• One-Stop-Shop, flights, hotels, car rentals, and more
• Good first-time user offers
• Helps to save time and money
• Quick and easy comparison of different airfares and schedules
• See reviews and recommendations from people who have taken the same trip before.

For the most part, they wrap up all of your trip into a single package and help manage the booking and getting you to your destination. All you have to do is pay and print out the trip details. 

If problems do arise on your trip, a customer service representative is only a phone call away to get you the help you need. 

Direct Flights

Whenever possible, get a direct flight. Layovers only add the potential for more problems. You want the journey to be as simple as possible, and when you only have to board and exit a single plane, you lessen the chance for delays, cancellations, and missed connecting flights. 

Layovers and Connecting Flights

If you can't find a direct flight, it's not the end of the world. A connecting flight is where you will travel to one airport to join a different flight that will take you to your end destination. Sometimes you may have multiple stops, but for most domestic flights, it's common only to have one.

A layover is a time in between these connecting flights. For example, if you fly from New York to Los Angeles, you may only fly halfway to Chicago. There you will exit the plane and wait in another concourse until your next flight is ready to depart for Los Angeles.

This can be a quick turnaround or several hours long; it all depends on the flight schedule.

If you must choose a layover, pick one that is at least 2 hours between the time the plane is scheduled to land and when the next one is scheduled to depart. Any less time may result in a missed connecting flight. 

What often happens is the plane's wheels will touch down at, say, 10:41 AM. However, the plane won't make it to the concourse for 'x' reason (jetway unavailable, lots of traffic, etc.) until 11:30 PM. By the time you're off the plane, it's almost 12:00 PM, and you're rushing to get to your next flight.  

When booking your flight, remember:

• Book a direct flight whenever possible, even if it costs a little more.
• Give yourself at least a 2-hour layover between connecting flights.
• Add more time to your layover if you want to eat, freshen up in the bathroom, etc. 
• Red-eye flights are often cheaper but at the expense of traveling at night.

RED-EYE FLIGHTS: You might see a "+1" on some flights, or see flights that fly overnight. These are referred to as "red-eye flights." Any flight that travels through the night is a red-eye.

The downside is obvious; however, these flights are typically cheaper if you can deal with not sleeping well.

Types of Tickets

You may see different ticket types available for purchase. The main differences you're likely to see include the ability to make flight adjustments after purchase, refundability, carry on allowance, seat selection, or boarding group. 

Be sure to carefully read the fine print of the ticket you are purchasing. Most airlines will be somewhat flexible on some of these policies. For example, if you need to change your flight weeks or months for departure, most customer service agents are happy to make that adjustment. 

Always, always, pack the night before! Get your laundry done a day or two before and make sure all of your electronics are fully charged. You will also want to pack some specific documents and ensure you have the right luggage. 

Important Documents

Be sure to have a valid form of ID, such as your driver's license and your passport if you are traveling internationally. The TSA has an article outlining other forms of acceptable IDs, if you are not using something typical, like your driver's license, military ID, or passport. 

Starting on October 1, 2020, all travelers in the US, over 18 yrs old, will be required to have a REAL ID-Compliant Driver's License or another form of acceptable identification.

More on the REAL ID can be found on the TSA website . 

Even if you plan on using a digital boarding pass on your phone, it may be helpful to print it from your home computer or at the airline's kiosk. 

An example of a boarding pass for an American Airlines flight printed at the airport.

Carry On Luggage

Carry on luggage refers to the larger suitcase or bag that you can bring on the plane with you and store in the overhead compartment.

There are restrictions to the size of the carry on you can bring; however, most bags from known brands like Chester, TravelPro, Delsey, and others are compliant for most domestic flights. 

International flights have slightly stricter standards, and are the requirements are only slightly smaller than domestic flights. Be sure to check the website of your airline for specific requirements.

If your bag is larger than specified measurements, you will be required to 'check' your luggage, which incurs around a $25-$30 fee.

BE AWARE: Don't go by your luggage manufacturer's advertised dimensions. Some manufacturers will not include the wheels or handles in their product listings. Airlines do take these into account.

If your luggage is questionable, you may be required to place it in this module to check its measurements.

Checked Luggage

If you are traveling for longer than 4-5 days, you'll likely pack a larger suitcase, which you will be required to check-in prior to going through security. These bags have weight limit restrictions, but as long as you're only packing usual items like clothes, shoes, etc. you won't even come near that limit.

There is a $25 to $30 fee for each way when checking your luggage. After checking your luggage, you will not have any access to your bag until you pick it up from the baggage claim at your destination.

TSA has specific restrictions on what you can and can't pack in both your checked and carry-on luggage. Each airline may have additional restrictions on what you can and can't pack. 

Personal Items

In addition to your carry-on, you are also allowed to bring on a 'personal item' onto the plane. This has to fit under the seat in front of you and is commonly a purse, small/medium backpack, or diaper bag of sorts.

These bags are subject to the same restrictions as your carry on and also have varying size requirements. It is best to pack items that will be accessed during the flight like snacks, headphones, laptops, power banks, etc. 

To summarize, remember:

• Make sure your ID is compliant and up to date
• Your carry on and personal item meet your airline's requirements
• If you are checking luggage, it also meets your airline's checked luggage regulations

Checking In

Before the flight, you are also required to "check-in," which just acknowledges you are still planning to make the trip. If you booked online, you could follow the instructions you get from the airline — you'll get an email or text prompting you to sign in. 

This is usually about 24 hours before your flight. If you didn't do so during the booking process, you can usually choose a seat during the check-in process, or pay for your checked bags (if applicable). 

Almost all major airlines allow you to perform all of these actions from the app. 

As part of this process, you receive a boarding pass—a document that proves that you have purchased a ticket and contains information about you and your trip. 

After checking in, your boarding pass is available through the app and can be added to your digital wallet. 

You can also print your boarding pass from a desktop computer or at the kiosk at the airport. It's highly recommended to do this just in case your phone dies or has technical issues at the gate. 

Arriving at the Airport

How early should i arrive for my flight.

Most airlines and travel experts recommend arriving two ahead of the scheduled departure time for any domestic flight. For International flights, plan for around 3-4 hours ahead of time.

If you are traveling during the peak holiday season, aka Thanksgiving and Christmas, it's advised to add an extra hour or two onto those times because of the influx of families, children, etc. 

Remember, you need to account for factors you can't control like traffic, security checkpoint wait times, etc.

PRO-TIP: Signing up for TSA Pre-check, Global Entry (for international travelers), or CLEAR, can save you TONS of time and hassle going through security.

It's basically like getting to go through the VIP line, which is always shorter.

If you are not being dropped off, you will need to pay for parking. You should check the rates and available lots at the airport you'll be departing from. Larger airports usually have 2, sometimes 3, different lots for travelers. 

One lot is designated as "daily," for travelers who will not be leaving their car overnight. This gives them a better rate than the "long-term lot," which is specifically for flyers who will be gone for more than a day. 

If you are gone for multiple days, park in the long-term lot, or else you'll be paying a lot more money to stay in the daily lot. 

When you pull into the lot, you'll likely pass through a gate where you'll receive a ticket about the size of a business card. Put this in your glove box as you'll need it to leave the lot. After coming back from your trip, you'll put the card into the machine on the way out and pay the parking fees. 

Lastly, for some major international airports, you may have to ride a shuttle from the parking lot or garage to the gates. It's recommended to tip these shuttle drivers a few dollars as they will typically help you with your luggage. 

PRO-TIP: If using an iPhone, drop a pin on the location for where you've parked your car and save it. Otherwise, make a note on your phone on the section, lot number, etc. of where your car is parked. This will make it much easier to find once you get back.

It's recommended to always print out a paper copy of your boarding pass and tickets, just in case the digital copies on your phone become inaccessible. 

You can print these out on your computer at home, or you can retrieve them from the kiosk at the airport. If the kiosks are not available or you are having trouble with them, you can talk with one of the airline's representatives to help you. 

You will receive all of the tickets and boarding passes for the first part of your flight, so be sure to place them somewhere where they can't be lost. The front pocket of a backpack, wallet, or purse is a good idea. You will want to be able to access them quickly, but keep them secure. 

Walk up to a kiosk or customer service rep to check into your flight.

Checking Luggage

If you plan on checking your luggage in, you can do that from the kiosk or by speaking with a representative. 

If done from the kiosk, it will print out a long sticker that you will wrap around the smaller, non-extending handle on your suitcase. You will remove the backing to expose the adhesive, wrap it around, and then connect the two adhesive sides together to form a loop. 

You'll then need to wait in line until you reach the check-in desk to hand off your bag. Sometimes the representative will be printing out the sticker and putting it on your bag. 

After you have landed at your destination, remove the sticker and throw it away before heading home. Having multiple labels on your luggage only increases its chances of getting lost. 

Getting Through Security

Depending on the airport, there may be a central security checkpoint for all gates—like in the Atlanta airport—or there may be separate checkpoints for each set of gates, like in the Tampa airport. 

Airport personnel can help you find the checkpoint, and there is generally ample signage to point you in the right direction. Regardless, all passengers must go through security, including children. 

When you reach the security area, you'll generally wait in line anywhere from no time to an hour or more. Once you get to an agent, they will check your boarding pass and ID to ensure they match. 

You will need a government-issued ID such as a driver's license, and as already mentioned above, starting October 1, 2020, it will need to be REAL-ID compliant. If your ID is compliant, you will not be allowed to pass security or board the plane.

If you become a frequent flyer, we recommend that you check out our CLEAR airport security review as a way to gain access and move through life more quickly and easily.

Be Aware: While waiting in line, you may be subject to a random screening. For example, while the author of this article was in Washington DC, his hands were dusted for any remnants of bomb-making materials. Unless you have recently been to a shooting range, near any gun powder, or fireworks, you will not have anything to worry about.

The Screening Process

Next, you will place your personal belongings and any carry-on bag (the one(s) you will keep with you on the plane) in bins that roll along a conveyor belt and under the x-ray machine.

This is the what security screening looks like after you have walked through and gathered your items.

BE AWARE: While waiting in line, you may be subject to a random screening. For example, while the author of this article was in Washington DC, his hands were dusted for any remnants of bomb-making materials. Unless you have recently been to a shooting range, near any gun powder, or fireworks, you will not have anything to worry about.

BE AWARE: The body scanner is a very sensitive machine. Something so much as your boarding pass or a stick of gum can show up on the screen.

Keep in mind this machine will not show any images of what is underneath your clothing - only if a foreign object appears on the outline of your body.

Any electronic larger than a cell phone needs to be removed from your bag(s) and placed in one of the containers. This includes laptops, tablets, and cameras. Be sure to have these items easily accessible and not buried deep within your bags. 

After that, you collect your belongings from the bin, put your shoes back on, and head to your gate area.

A Better Solution: CLEAR

If you would like to avoid most of the security screening, consider signing up for CLEAR and check out the review here. With CLEAR, you will only need to walk through a metal detector; all your belongings can stay in their respective bags — no removal of shoes, shorter lines, and less hassle.

Prohibited Items & the 3-1-1 Rule

Airports have strict requirements regarding what you are allowed to have on your person and in your carry-on bag. To find out what personal items you can bring with you on the flight, consult the resources below.

For a guide on permitted and prohibited items, visit this Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website page .

For information about the "3-1-1″ rule pertaining to liquids, visit this TSA webpage .

Finding the Concourse Gate

The "gate" is the area where you wait until time to board a plane. Each concourse in an airport houses several gates. A concourse resembles the wing of the mall in that it usually contains restaurants and gift shops. Any food or merchandise you buy in the concourse area is fine to take on the plane with you.

A terminal is the large main building of a section of the airport. The terminal houses several concourses. Imagine it like a large tree. A terminal is the trunk of the tree with large branches coming off the trunk, these are your terminals. Finally, there are small branches off of those larger ones called gates, where the planes are docked for the next flight.

It goes Terminal > Concourse > Gate, so in the picture the gate is L8. This is gate 8, in concourse L. According to this map of Chicago O'Hare Airport, concourse L is in Terminal 3. Large international airports have multiple terminals, but generally will not reuse concourse letters. 

When at the gate, you are free to sit wherever you please. When it is time to board, passengers line up and present their boarding documents to a gate agent. 

If you are using a digital boarding pass, it is scanned straight from your phone. Just ensure your brightness is high enough and have your paper one ready in case your phone has trouble scanning. 

You will then walk through a "jetway," or "jet bridge" which connects the gate to the outside of the plane.

A jet bridge waiting for an airplane to dock on a sunny day.

An airplane that has been docked to the jetway on a rainy day.

Valet Checking your Carry On

For smaller aircraft, typically ones flying in or out of small regional airports, you may be required to 'valet check' your luggage. Don't worry, this doesn't cost you any money, and is a common practice. 

Usually, an attendant will walk around the gate area, passing out small red or yellow tags that will attach to the top of your luggage. This will vary from airline to airline, but generally, if it has wheels, you will valet it.

After scanning your boarding pass, you'll leave your carry-on at the top of the jetway where it will be stored in the belly of the aircraft for that flight only. You will still take your personal item with you to your seat. 

After the flight lands, your bag will be waiting for you at the top of the jetway. It may take a few minutes for the crew to unload all the bags and make them accessible.

Boarding the Plane

Passengers board the plane according to the group number on their ticket. Different airlines have different ways of doing this, but for most first time flyers, you will be the last to the second-to-last group.

Once you make your way onto the plane, read the seating labels found around eye level just below where the handle is for the overhead storage compartments. You'll see row numbers, often with letters indicating the seat number. 

If you are having trouble getting your bag into the storage area or can't find your seat, flight attendants will be standing by to assist.

There will also be an icon indicating the window or aisle for you to determine which seat is yours. 

Planes have markers at about eye level so passengers know which letter on their boarding pass refers to which seat.

After locating your seat, place your luggage in the overhead compartment, ideally wheels first. You can take your backpack, purse, or whatever your personal item is with you to your seat. It will need to be placed under the seat in front of you for takeoff and landing. 

For those sitting in the front-most seat of economy you will not have a seat in front of you. Instead, look for the overhead compartments that are reserved for your personal items. 

Pre-Flight Procedures

Now for the fun part, the flying itself. For some people, this is where the fear and anxiety begins setting in. But if you know what to expect when you fly, you will hopefully be able to better manage the fear before you are in the air.

Passengers board the plane, find their seats, and store any carry on baggage in the storage bins above the seats. 

The crew relays safety instructions (or they are presented in a video on screens behind each seat), and the Captain gives a brief message to passengers along the lines of the weather in your destination city, any expected weather or turbulence issues expected and how long the flight is expected to take.

A safety card is in the seat in front of you to let you know what you need to do in the rare event of an emergency.

People that are already experiencing fear and anxiety when they fly tend to fear the worst during safety instructions. This is something you can learn to overcome by educating yourself on flight safety statistics and recognizing that the fear is irrational.

Accidents are very rare, so safety measures are seldom needed; the crew addresses them in the unlikely event they are necessary. If an emergency does occur, the crew is well-trained and equipped to assist passengers.

The Takeoff

The Captain then "drives" the aircraft on the ground to get in position for takeoff. Before takeoff, passengers must fasten their seat belts and remain seated until instructed otherwise. 

When the pilot gets the clearance to take off, the plane will begin accelerating along the runway before becoming airborne. This is the part some passengers dislike because the plane is leaving the ground, and the body is angled upward. 

Others have a feeling of exhilaration as the plane accelerates into the air. The acceleration and takeoff are likely to be a little bumpy as you move across the runway.

During the Flight

When the plane reaches a certain altitude, passengers are free to move about in the cabin and use the restrooms. Many planes have a video screen on the back of each seat with on-demand music, TV programs, and movies for entertainment. Wi-Fi is usually available as well, so you can take care of personal or business-related tasks.

The crew will also serve snacks and drinks. Depending on your ticket, food and drinks may be complimentary. 

If you're in the coach section (typically the cheapest) section, you'll generally get a snack like pretzels or cookies and sodas or water. You can still buy additional food items or alcoholic beverages if you prefer.

If there is turbulence and moving around is not safe while in the air, the crew will instruct passengers to remain seated until notified otherwise. Turbulence is nothing to fear—it is caused by fluctuating air pressures and is a normal experience of flying.

The Landing

Likewise, when you are close to landing, the crew will require that passengers be seated and buckled in. 

Some people fear this part of the journey because the plane will often slightly roll (turn) and change altitudes in preparation to descend and land on the airport runway assigned to the flight. 

When the plane lands, the Captain drives to the gate, where passengers use the jetway to exit the aircraft and enter the destination airport.

Post Flight Procedures

Exiting the plane.

Similar to how you boarded. Exiting the plane is essentially the same but in reverse. 

After the plane has exited the runway, there may be a wait until a gate is available for the plane to dock. This is dependent on whether or not flights are running behind and the availability of a jetway. 

You should remain buckled until the crew gives you the okay to unbuckle. If sitting near the rear of the plane, you will be better off staying in your seat as it will take a while for everyone ahead of you to get off the plane. 

Be courteous to other passengers and help when needed. 

Baggage Claim

If you checked any luggage, you would then head to the baggage claim area. Airport signage will direct you to baggage claim, or you can get assistance from airport staff. Shortly after landing, luggage is placed on a carousel for passengers to pick up.

Final Thoughts

Once you have experienced the air travel process for the first time, you will at least have addressed the fear of the unknown, and hopefully will enjoy any future flights. Good luck, and if you are interested in reading some additional tips for first-time flyers, click here .

First Time Flying | Resources

• Airport Terminals
• Fear of Flying Statistics

Written by Fly Fright Staff , Staff Writer

Fact Checked

Our team of writers and editors rigorously evaluate each article to ensure the information is accurate and exclusively cites reputable sources.

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Going on an international trip soon? The rules for international flights have many dos and don't's. Here are 12 tips gleaned from experienced globe trotters designed to make that long-haul flight easier. 

Pack Lightly

On one of my first international business trips as an adult, I overpacked drastically. Guess who had to carry a large heavy suitcase, a large purse, and a garment bag around Paris at Metro and train stations that didn’t have elevators or escalators? After that, I swore to only pack what I could comfortably carry by myself. Check out my packing tips here.

Choose an Aisle Seat

On long flights, it’s recommended that you get up and walk to stretch your muscles and avoid blood clots in your legs. This is much easier to do in an aisle seat, so book one as soon as you book your ticket.

There's an App for That!

Apps can be a savior when traveling, but especially when you're abroad. You can use travel apps them to keep in touch with your airline, translate different languages, search for services at airports, choose your seats and myriad other tasks.

Dress Accordingly

On a long flight, you want to look well-dressed, but you also want to be comfortable. so you don’t want to wear clothes that cut or bind. I wear a wrinkle-proof jacket that can double as a blanket or a pillow, and I always wear a long pashmina for the same reason. The pashmina can also be used as a wrap, a pillow, a skirt cover and an accessory to dress up travel outfits. Buy my favorite for $10 at the Bijoux Terner website. I also wear slip-on flat shoes that are easy to take on and off at security and on your flight. All of this isbeautifully illustrated here at the Chelsea Tells Storiesblog.

Arrive Early

Most airlines want you at the airport at least two hours before your flight takes off, especially if you’re leaving from a U.S. international gateway airport . It will give you time to check your bags, check in, navigate the airport security checkpoint and get to your gate in plenty of time and arrive ​stress-free.

Zip Through Customs

Those who travel internationally know that U.S. Customs and Immigration lines can be a nightmare, especially at peak arrival times at the major international U.S. airports. Smart travelers carry the  Global Entry  card, which speeds you right past the Immigration and Customs lines. And a bonus -- it also works for the domestic Transportation Security Administration's PreCheck program .

Lounge Around

Because you need to be at the airport so far in advance, consider paying for access to an airline-branded or airport lounge. There are plenty of lounges that allow you to pay a fee for entry. It's good to have time away from the masses before boarding your flight.

Drink Water

It’s OK to have a glass of wine or two while on your flight, but you really need to stay hydrated, because aircraft cabins are extremely dry. And instead of bothering flight attendants for endless little cups of water, go to your local dollar store, buy a water bottle and ask them to fill that up.

Cone of Silence

Nothing is worse than being on a plane with a screaming child or a chatty Cathy seatmate. That’s why I never travel without either a pair of  noise canceling headphones or my Beats Flex By Dr. Dre earbuds. Pop on either of them and enjoy the silence.

Sleepy Time

When it’s time to rest, you want to be comfortable. So invest in an inflatable neck pillow (I know they look silly, but they are a great sleep enhancer), an eye mask and comfortable socks.

Charge Me Up

More airlines are installing power ports on their aircraft, but you can’t always depend on that. When I flew to Paris for Christmas, the flight over had a USB port, but the flight home didn’t. That’s why I always carry mytrusty Mophie Juice Pack Powerstation Duo, which allows me to charge my iPhone and iPad quickly.

Show The Love

The flight attendants are there for your safety. But they also work hard to ensure that our flight is comfortable and stress-free. Show your appreciation by presenting them with a box of sealed chocolates, like Ghiradelli Chocolate Squares or Ferrero Rocher truffles. And although you're not expecting it, they may show the love back to you in return. 

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100+ Europe Travel Tips for First Timers & Must-Knows Before You Go

Last Updated: November 6, 2023

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Headed to Europe for the first time and trying not to cry?

I get it. You’re probably a hot mess of emotion right now. Between the excitement of ticking off bucket list moments and the anxiety of getting pickpocketed or (possibly worse) getting side-eyed by cool European youths, there’s a lot of potential for stress carbs and sheer overwhelm.

Don’t worry though – I have all the Europe tips you need in this post to keep those first time jitters at bay, and ensure you’re fully prepared for your big European adventure.

So, what are some must-knows before you travel to Europe for the first time? Read on for a full of my best Europe travel tips, after over a decade of travelling around/living on this gorgeous and delicious continent.

NOTE: As an aggressively apologetic Canadian, I must first clarify that these European travel tips are written from a North American perspective, and there are some culture shocks that (while seemingly basic) can really confuse a 1st time visitor, so… yes, this is just me covering all the bases. Enjoy!

Save this list of Europe Travel Tips for Later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

Europe Travel Planning Tips

Let’s start with some planning-related Europe tips to help you with flights, booking hotels in Europe, choosing dates, the best times to visit Europe, etc. to get you from armchair travel to your real-life dream trip.

Steal my step by step guide to planning a trip to Europe from scratch

This post is full of random Europe travel tips, but if you are looking more for step by step guidance, be sure to check out my step by step guide to planning a Europe trip.

Also be sure to check out my free Europe trip planner book , as well as my free International Travel Checklist for a list of things to do before you travel abroad.

Avoid peak travel times

If you have the luxury of flexibility, I’d avoid visiting Europe between mid-June to the end of August.

Simply put, this is when prices and crowds are at their highest, and (depending on where you go) temperatures during this season can reach a point of salty, sweaty discomfort.

Instead, consider going in the Spring , Fall or Winter!

Avoid European holidays

In addition to avoiding North American holiday periods, be sure to also consider popular European school holidays too.

Generally, speaking longer European school holidays will take place during Easter/Christmas, a very popular time for European families to travel around the continent too.

Yes, Europeans can be avid tourists too. Don’t forget that!

Go for Christmas markets!

Okay, this may be a direct contradiction to what I said above, but one exception I’d make for “peak season travel” in Europe is going to Christmas markets.

This is one of the most magical times to visit Europe, and if you plan your visit for earlier in the season (late November, rather than close to Christmas), you’ll usually be able to avoid the bulk of the crowds.

Here are my top must-knows for visiting Christmas markets in Europe if you want to learn more.

Consider getting a travel credit card

I’m going to level with you: no matter how you plan it, even if you stay in hostels and subsist solely on hummus and bread scraps, you will end up spending a lot of money on your Europe trip.

… so you might as well try to reap as many rewards from it as possible!

Getting a travel rewards credit card before booking all your hotels and flights is one of my favourite underrated Europe travel tips.

There’s a million options out there, so I’ll leave the research/choice up to you, but just make sure you’re booking everything on a card that maximizes the amount of benefits you get.

For me personally, I have the Amex Platinum , which yes has a really high fee but at least for the first year it’s super worth it because you get travel credits, travel insurance, lounge access, and most importantly, enough bonus sign-up points to get you a roundtrip flight to Europe from North America! It’s not for everyone, but definitely worth looking into.

Bonus sneaky point hoarding tip: Travelling with friends? Especially if they don’t collect points of their own, offer to book for everyone, then have them pay you back. Whee – free points without needing to spend all the money!

Get a Wise card

If you’re not interested in getting a travel credit card, a handy and free alternative I can highly recommend is a Wise card.

Having a Wise card allows you to “send and spend money around the world at the real exchange rate”, avoiding hidden fees in the process.

It is SO handy for travel, because you can use it for over 150 currencies around the world, and you even get 2 free ATM withdrawals per month with it overseas.

And because your card is linked to your Wise account, you can simply load it up with a minimal amount of money so you don’t have to risk your normal credit/debit cards while walking around.

You can use my referral link here to transfer your first $500 fee-free.

NOTE: I’ve also had a good experience with Revolut when I lived in Germany, but they don’t offer services for Canadians so I can no longer use them.

Focus on one or two countries for shorter trips

Unless you have a lot of time to work with, I would recommend getting to know one or two countries well rather than trying to visit too many countries in one go just for the sake of checking them off your list.

While travelling between European countries can be affordable and quick, hopping around too much can be a sure recipe for burnout and time lost commuting.

Plus, the more you see of one country, the more you’re able to get more off-the-beaten path and find spots you hadn’t heard of before!

Check out my list of 1 week itineraries for Europe if you need inspiration.

Learn all about the Schengen Area

An important must-know for all first time visitors to Europe is that border-free travel doesn’t exist across the continent (as is commonly believed).

Rather, border-free travel apples only between countries in the Schengen Area, this group of 27 countries (accurate as of 2023):

• Liechtenstein
• The Netherlands
• Switzerland 

When crossing borders outside of these countries, you will need to clear passport control as normal.

Understanding this distinction will help you plan how long you can stay in different countries, as well as Europe in general, and give you some insight into logistics like when you’ll need to clear passport control, and which visas you might need for where.

Use your understanding of the Schengen Zone to legally stay in Europe longer

For most tourists, the maximum amount of time you can spend in the Schengen Zone is 90 days out of 180 days .

Simply put, if by the time you leave, you can look back on the past 180 days and say you stayed less than 90 days total, you’re good.

BUT if you want to stay in Europe for longer than that amount of time, you can utilize your Schengen Area understanding to stay longer, simply by including travel to non-Schengen countries.

For example: Let’s say you can only spend 90 days in the Schengen Zone, but you’re allowed to spend 180 total in the UK. You can easily make your European trip longer than 90 days by adding time in the UK, Ireland, Bulgaria, Romania or any other non-Schengen country.

Consider more off-the-beaten path destinations

Another benefit of visiting non-Schengen countries is they’re often lesser visited, and filled with some truly amazing hidden gems.

For example, I’m a HUGE fan of Bulgaria. (Here are some of the coolest things to do in Bulgaria that you probably haven’t heard of.)

While I totally understand the desire to see the most popular and best-known destinations on your trip, sometimes visiting these lesser known spots can bring amazing surprises that end up being the highlight of your vacation!

Of course, there’s a middle ground too – you can easily get the ‘best of both worlds’ by combining a hugely popular destination with some side trips to other lesser known places in the same country. These posts might help with that:

• The Best Places to Visit in England (Besides London)
• The Best Places to Visit in France (Besides Paris)

Offset pricey destinations with more budget-friendly ones

If you’re hoping to visit Europe on a budget, but still have some pricier destinations on your bucket list (e.g. Switzerland, Norway, Sweden, Iceland, UK, Germany, etc.), then a great way to cut costs is to round out your itinerary with more affordable stops (e.g. Bulgaria, Romania, Poland, Montenegro, Lithuania, etc.)

This of course makes more sense on longer trips where you’ll be covering a lot of ground, but just remember than some European destinations are MUCH rougher on the budget than others, so mix it up if you’re looking to give your wallet a break.

Alternate between busy and chill destinations

On a similar note, you should make sure your Europe trip itinerary also includes a mix of busy and relaxed places.

One of the biggest mistakes I made during my first backpacking trip was I crammed SO many huge cities into my itinerary, one after another.

But when your itinerary is nothing but European heavyweights like Paris, London, Amsterdam, Rome and Florence… yikes, you’ll be sightseeing your eyeballs off daily with zero chance for breaks.

So, here’s a very important Europe travel tip when planning your itinerary: try to space out the “big” cities with chiller destinations, maybe nature or beach breaks so you have time to rest up before sightseeing like the Energizer bunny once more.

Learn the tricks to getting cheap flights TO Europe

Not sure how to get the best flight deals for your big Europe trip? Be sure to check out my guide on how to get the cheapest flights to Europe .

I promise it’ll save you hundreds of dollars, if not more.

Take advantage of free stopovers

Certain airlines have a free stopover program where you can have a long layover for no extra cost, meaning you get two destinations for the price of one plane ticket!

Here are some Europe-based airlines that offer this:

• IcelandAir: Free stopovers in Reykjavik for 1-7 days
• Iberia: Free stopovers in Madrid for 1-6 nights
• TAP Portugal: Free stopovers in Lisbon and Porto for 1-5 nights

Steal my step by step process for finding the best hotels

If you’re overwhelmed by the prospect of booking all your own places to stay, I have just the resource for you.

Here’s how to find the best accommodation in Europe every time.

Book hotels far in advance

And if you don’t have time to check out my whole step by step process, then here’s the #1 piece of Europe accommodation wisdom I can give you: book your hotels as soon as possible.

In many of Europe’s most popular destinations, good value accommodation books out quickly, so your biggest defense against outrageous prices and poor quality hotels is booking early.

Even if you’re not going in peak season, you never know when an unexpected event (e.g. a big concert, sports game or conference) will send hotel prices soaring, so the sooner you book, the better.

I know that committing to a hotel early can feel scary, but if you use  Booking.com , you can find hundreds of hotels that offer free reservations and free cancellations up until a certain point.

I’ll often hop on Booking.com to make a placeholder / “just in case” reservation in the early stages of my planning just to ensure I have a Plan B in case prices skyrocket.

The European hotel star system is different to North America

I grew up with a North American hotel system where 5* meant opulent luxury and 1* meant run for the hills, unless you want to lose your kidneys.

The star ratings in Europe are a bit different. Instead of stars coinciding to quality on a scale of 1-5, the stars actually correspond to a checklist of amenities/requirements.

SO, you can get some amazing 2* properties that are simply smaller and don’t really have things like a spa or pool, while also finding crappy 4 or 5* properties that have that rating just because they’re big and have amenities like fitness centers and valets (i.e. many chains).

Learn more about the criteria for star ratings here.

Avoid airport hotels unless flying in or out

Tempted by a cheap hotel deal near the airport? Run.

Unless you are flying into your destination late and need a place to crash or are flying out early in the morning, do NOT book a stay at any airport hotels.

With Europe travel, you want to ideally be close to the sights or at least in a scenic neighbourhood, not next to a motorway. Adding in the time and cost of commuting to/from the city centre, it’s rarely worth it so keep that in mind the next time you’re tempted by the siren’s call of an airport Ibis.

Learn the options for free accommodation in Europe

Hoping to find places to stay for free in Europe? There are indeed options for that!

Here are a few ways you can potentially find accommodation for free:

• Couchsurfing:   Crashing with someone within a community of travellers where people offer to host each other in their homes free of charge
• House Swap: Trading homes with someone (like in The Holiday). Many sites facilitate these exchanges, including  HomeExchange  and  Kindred
• House and Pet Sitting:  Looking after someone’s house/pets in exchange for free accommodation. One of the most popular platforms for this is  Trusted Housesitters
• Workaway:  Volunteering your time/services in exchange for accommodation

Don’t forget travel insurance

I personally believe that travel insurance is a must for every trip. Trust me, the peace of mind is worth the cost!

Click here to check rates with WorldNomads.

Make sure you’ll have Internet access

This tip goes without saying, but if you’re old school and prefer to travel without Internet, don’t.

Really, as romantic as it is to disconnect during your travels, having an Internet plan for your phone is crucial. It allows you to navigate with Google Maps, use translation apps, do research on the go, etc.

Without it, your trip will be infinitely harder. No joke – some places these days even require you to have data to scan menus!

Luckily, roaming within the EU is free, and it’s wayyyy cheaper than what we have in Canada.

Download helpful apps before you go

On that note, once you have a data plan set up, you can take advantage of all the helpful apps for Europe travel available.

Some of my favourites include…

• Omio : Great for comparing and booking transport options (including buses, trains, and flights) from Point A to Point B.
• Google Translate : A must for translating signs and menus if you are in a country where English isn’t the main language
• Splitwise : Helpful for tracking expenses split between friends, great for minimizing awkwardness when dealing with trip finances
• Too Good to Go : Perfect for buying discounted meals at the end of the day to save food from going to waste

Download TripIt to keep track of all your travel bookings

Speaking of helpful Europe travel apps, another one I can recommend is TripIt.

This app works like magic to organize your hotel bookings, flights, tickets and all in one place… the best thing is, it does it automatically through scanning your inbox for confirmation emails.

If you’re planning a long trip with multiple stops, hotels, modes of transport, etc. to worry about, then TripIt is a great tool for organizing everything in one neat place.

Ensure you have proof of onward travel

“Proof of onward travel”  is a very important consideration that many first-time travellers forget about.

In sum, it’s proof that you’re leaving your destination before your visa or allowance expires.

Usually this proof is provided in the form of a ticket back home, or a ticket elsewhere to prove that you’ll be leaving at some point.

A lot of people dismiss this requirement as a myth, but trust me: it’s not.

I was once almost barred from boarding a flight to Germany because my return flight was after the 90 day Schengen Zone allowance, and I didn’t have proof I would be leaving the Schengen Zone before the 90 days was over. I intended to spend some time out of the Schengen Zone to ensure I never overstayed, but they demanded proof… so yes, they do check!

Want to learn more?  I have a full article if you want to read more about  proof of onward travel  and my experience lawyer-ing myself out of that (very awkward) situation.

Steal my pre-made itineraries

Lastly Europe travel planning tip: I know that making itineraries can be exhausting, but luckily there are Type A laptop gremlins like me who adore doing it.

So, here are some itineraries for you to steal in case you need them:

• My 1.5 month Western Europe backpacking itinerary
• My 40+ one week in Europe itineraries

Europe Travel Tips for Transport & Getting Around

Getting around Europe can be really daunting for a first-time visitor, so here are all my best Europe tips related to transport and getting from one place to another.

Public transport is abundant and amazing

Don’t be afraid of using it!

I’m always shocked when I hear travellers who think that they’ll need to rent a car for their Europe trip.

Oftentimes, you really won’t need to, especially if you’re mainly visiting big cities.

On that note…

Avoid renting a car

Unless you are doing a trip that focuses heavily on natural sights or smaller remote villages, odds are you won’t need a car.

Public transport (as I mentioned above) is a solid option, and involves a fraction of the stress often unleashed by car rentals.

… But beware of hidden costs if you do rent a car

When it comes to car rentals in Europe, often the first price you see isn’t indicative of what you’ll have to pay in the end.

Some hidden/additional costs might include…

• Age or nationality based surcharges
• Additional driver fees
• Multiple country fees
• Extra miles
• Extra insurance
• One way fees
• Tolls/vignettes

So if you still want to rent a car, here is a post to help you figure out how much renting a car in Europe really costs .

Renting a car? You might need a vignette 

One of the pains of car rentals is the additional fees. In many European countries, you need to pay for a vignette (a sticker you put on your car) to use their motorways.

In Switzerland for instance, this costs 40 francs… and yes, you need to make sure you have the vignette BEFORE you drive into the country, as there are automatic scanners at the border that can pick up your details and send you a ticket later (which we learned the hard way).

Do a lot of research before committing to a Eurail pass 

Many first time visitors to Europe think of a rail pass as the cheapest option, but very often, booking your train tickets in advance will work out to be cheaper than a Eurail pass, especially if you aren’t taking that many trains and don’t need full flexibility (i.e. you are okay to book the trains advance).

Eurail passes can be great value, but not always. If you need help figuring out whether they’d make sense for you, read my full Eurail review for more details.

Look into scenic European train rides

I’ve already made my allegiance to European public transport pretty clear, but one of the main reasons is simply how beautiful it can be.

Sure, trains aren’t always the cheapest way to to travel Europe , but they’re often the most scenic and beautiful.

So if you’re into the idea of travel as an experience, then be sure to read my post on the best scenic train rides in Europe , and the best scenic train rides in Switzerland .

Familiarize yourself with Europe’s most famous budget airlines 

One of the cheapest ways to get around Europe is hopping around on budget airlines… where sometimes an international flight is cheaper than a 6 pack of nuggets.

Of course, the epic prices come with their own set of drawbacks, usually in terms of the flight experience, customer support, and additional add-ons (which always come at an extra fee).

You can learn more specifics about Europe’s top budget airlines through my reviews here:

• Honest RyanAir Review
• Honest easyJet Review
• Honest WizzAir Review

Consider bus/coach travel if you’re on a budget

In addition to planes and trains, Europe is very well connected by an extensive bus (AKA coach) network.

One of the main contenders in this space is Flixbus, but depending on the country you’re visiting, there’s often local companies offering affordable bus travel between cities as well.

Again, I’d recommend using Omio so you can quickly compare buses, trains, and flights at the same time, but just know that bus travel in Europe can be a really cheap, safe, and easy way to get around.

Although there are of course some downisdes as well. You can read my full Flixbus review for more details.

Book an airport transfer for minimal stress

I love navigating Europe with public transport but if you’re travelling with a lot of luggage or as a big group, one of the more cost effective ways might actually be to just book a private transfer or taxi.

Of course, depending on where you go, taxi scams can be a real possibility, so for the least stressful option, consider booking a Welcome Pickups transfer, which is a set price, includes an English speaking driver who monitors your flight arrival time, and offers free cancellations up until 24 hours before.

This saves you the hassle of trying to get a taxi/navigate the language barriers to do so.

… Plus they pick you up with a cute little sign that has your name on it!

Do research on how trains work in your destination

I have to say, one of the most overwhelming things for me in Europe was getting used to how trains work. I come from West Coast Canada, where passenger rail from city to city is very limited.

SO if you’re new to train travel, it might be helpful to do some research on how the train system works in your destinations, paying attention to particularities like…

• Where to find the right platform for your train
• Where to stand in order to find the right section of your train
• Whether you need to buy and validate tickets before you get on board

Train stations are chaotic and stressful places, so you’ll ideally want to know these main things before you get there, otherwise you may have a lil mental breakdown on-site.

Use train station lockers

If you’re looking for a stress-free way to explore a city for the day, or if you need a place to dump your bags before check-in or after check-out, a convenient solution can often be found at your destination’s train station.

At larger train stations in Europe, there will usually be paid lockers or a ‘left luggage’ office for you to leave your bags for a small fee. Be sure to take advantage of these so you can explore without hauling all your lively possessions with you.

Order taxis or rides through apps whenever possible

Of course, this isn’t possible everywhere, but taxi scams are so widespread in certain European countries that you should definitely use an app when you’re able to.

The most popular ones in Europe include Uber, or FreeNow which is like Uber except you’re ordering an official licensed taxi.

Ordering through an app helps ensure you get a fair rate, and is also (in most cases) more convenient than waiting at a taxi stand or trying to wave one down in the street.

Always look for deals with public transport

If you’re relying on public transportation to get around during your trip (which I highly recommend), then doing a bit of research on ticket types and discounts can really save you a lot of money.

Most major European cities offer some kind of discount for day tickets, group tickets, or multiple trip bundles, so be sure to look into those rather than buying single tickets every time.

Always validate and hold onto your ticket

When it comes to navigating public transportation in Europe, most times it’s not enough to simply buy a ticket – you must usually a) validate it properly and b) keep it on you in case of inspection.

Who’s checking you ask? Well, most major European cities have random ticket controllers who periodically go around to make sure you’ve paid for and validated your fare correctly.

Sometimes (like in Paris) they’ll even ask to see your ticket after you’ve left the train platform, so be sure to hold onto your ticket until you’ve left the station.

Avoid public transport during rush hour… and during big events like sports games

When you’re a care-free tourist, it can be easy to forget the woes of mundane daily life like trying to get home during rush hour. Well, don’t forget: no matter where you go, they have a rush hour too, so be sure to avoid it whenever possible.

Ideally, you should aim to avoid public transport during times that locals are commuting to/from work. Pay special attention as well to big events like huge concerts or sport games, which can also make public transport a nightmare.

Easily rent bikes or scooters

Most major European cities now have e-bikes and e-scooters that you can easily rent on-the-go through an app. This can be a fun way to quickly and cheaply get around the city.

Options will depend on your destination, but keep an eye out upon arrival! If they are available, odds are you will see them everywhere.

Europe Tips for Attractions

Odds are, if you’re visiting Europe, your plans involve a lot of sightseeing. So, here are some of my best Europe travel tips related to attractions and itinerary planning.

Prepare yourself for scaffolding and restorations

Europe is an amazing destination thanks to its history.

… But the flip side of that is that it is old and so are many of its most famous monuments.

So, mentally prepare yourself for the possibility that the amazing church or landmark you’ve seen a million times on social media is covered in scaffolding, or doesn’t look as you hoped due to restorations.

For example, the first time I went to Rome, I was devastated to see the Trevi Fountain completely covered with scaffolding, and drained of water.

And most travelers have similar stories. There’s no way around it, but just keep in mind that it’s possible!

Look into age-based discounts

Oftentimes, whether you’re looking at train tickets or attraction tickets, there will be enticing discounts available based on your age, so be sure to look into those for additional savings, especially if you’re considered a child, youth (often this goes up to age 27!) or senior.

Get an ISIC Card if you’re a student

Here’s a very important Europe travel tip for students: if you are a student, the good news is you’re eligible for a wealth of additional discounts and offers.

The bad news is, often European institutions won’t recognize or accept student IDs from abroad, since they’re all so different.

An easy way to get around this though is by getting an  ISIC Card , which is an internationally recognized student ID that costs about twenty dollars, but will save you at least that much in discounts. 

I’d recommend getting one if you plan to travel around Europe for a longer time.

On a budget? Prioritize free museums and sights

This is one of my top Europe backpacking tips – do not sleep on the many free things to see and do in Europe.

Everywhere you go in Europe, there will be free things to do and see, ranging from free museums to beautiful architecture and street art.

So, be sure to research beforehand and see what free things there are to do at your destination.

NOTE:  A lot of museums across Europe offer free admission on particular days of the month. Take advantage of these offers!

Book tickets for attractions in advance whenever possible

This is usually cheaper, and can save you a lot of time on the day of your visit because at major attractions, there’s usually a separate line for people who already have tickets.

Skip the line tickets are usually worth it

If you’re visiting a busy destination, then I’d highly recommend looking into Skip the Line tickets for major attractions, which will allow you to get in quicker.

Remember, during your trip, time is money, so paying a bit extra to skip the line is definitely a good use of funds.

Visit attractions shortly before closing time

While most guides advise that you visit the main sights early, another sneaky hack that works quite well is visiting right before it closes.

I did this once with the Vatican Museums, entering about 1.5 hours before closing time and it I practically had the place all to myself!

In contrast, one time I did an early morning tour of the Vatican and it was already quite busy because other tour groups were starting at the same time. 

Book special tours that are before or after public opening hours 

Many busier destinations will offer this now, and it’s a magical way to experience the top sights with a fraction of the crowds.

I once did a sunrise tour around Venice and it was incredible to see all the main sights and feel like I had them mainly to myself.

Seek out fun and unique tours in general

Gone are the days that destinations offer just your old standard tours that cover everything generally.

These days, in most major European destinations, there are special tours you can book based on interest, with tours focusing on everything from history and food to street art and photography.

I usually like to have a quick search on GetYourGuide to see what’s available.

For touristy cities, research on local blogs 

In big cities like Paris or London, sure there’s a lot of tourists, but there are even more locals, who live there and call it home.

This means there’s a whole other side to the city that many tourists miss out on, from cool pop-ups and restaurants to special cultural events. I always try to look up fun events/updates on local blogs before every trip, and have gotten some really fun travel memories out of it.

You might find my guide on  How to Find Cool Stuff to Do Near You  helpful.

Seek alternate viewpoints to main landmarks

If you ever find yourself in a place wanting to get THE photo of a major landmark (e.g. the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Coliseum in Rome, etc.) then a great way to get an amazing photo away from the crowds is by seeking out alternative angles and perspectives.

Remember, landmarks are big, so odds are you can find some cool places to get your photos without having to cram with everyone else. Simply walk a few blocks away and try to find unique views!

Always search for information on the official websites of attractions (even in the local language)

These days, hours/entry requirements can change quickly and third party guides (yes, even Google Maps!) may be inaccurate. 

So, if you’re trying to find information on how to book tickets or what opening times are, make sure you always go straight to the source rather than other sites or blogs (even mine!)

For example, on my most recent visit to Rome, the Pantheon had changed its policy to be open only for reserved time slots on weekends, which would have been really unlucky because I saw no information about this anywhere else.

Don’t spread yourself too thin

An ideal itinerary should have a mix of sights, experiences & relaxing. Don’t burn out by forcing yourself to see everything. I personally always ensure that there’s a relaxing or chill activity on each day, whether that be a picnic or just a relaxed coffee/cake afternoon.

If you’re not interested, don’t force yourself just because it’s a must do

I think too often, first-time visitors in Europe get caught in this trap of needing to see all THE most famous things, but remember: at the end of the day, this is your vacation, so don’t force yourself to see something just because a random person on the Internet told you to.

I personally love museums but they’re not for everyone, so just remember it’s your vacation and there’s no need to do something just because it’s famous.

… but psst – if you ARE into museums, don’t wait until your trip to go! There are tons of really cool virtual museums you can check out when you’re bored. Pro tip from one hopeless nerd to another.

Safety Tips for Europe (And How to Not Get Scammed!)

Is Europe dangerous to travel? This is one of the most common questions that first-time visitors ask. Honestly, so long as you keep the following Europe safety tips in mind, you will be fine.

Be wary of petty theft and scams when you visit Europe

Certainly in more touristy cities like Paris and Barcelona, opportunistic crime is abundant.

You can learn the most common pickpocket techniques and how to avoid them in my post about how to avoid pickpockets in Europe , but overall, the key is to always be vigilant and keep an eye on your belongings.

Pickpockets thrive on distraction, and tend to operate in high-traffic areas that have a lot of people/tourists (e.g. train stations), so be especially careful to not let anyone get too close.

Look into theft-proof bags and accessories

There are a lot of amazing theft-proof travel accessories out there these days. The bad news is they’re not always the cheapest.

If you’re willing to splurge a bit on something high-quality and designed to thwart pickpockets, here are some options:

• PacSafe’s  products are all made to be theft-proof, including their signature backpack  here  and day bag  here
• Secret passport scarves  like these  are a great way to stash THE most important things in a subtle and discreet way 

Research the pickpocket hot zones for your destination

Most major cities have certain areas that are particularly well-known as pickpocket destinations.

In Rome for example, there’s Termini Train Station where I got pickpocketed, and Bus 64 AKA the Pickpocket Express.

Knowing where pickpockets tend to operate can help provide some ease of mind, and help you figure out when to be on guard.

Keep valuables out of sight

Leaving your phone on a terrace table, or your purse hanging on your chair are both easy ways to get your valuables stolen!

Sure, it’s easy to let your guard down when you’re trying to relax, but remember that keeping your valuables out like that can be an easy way for them to get snatched.

Whenever I’m dining anywhere, I always keep my bag between my feet so they’re hard to access, and make sure to not leave my phone out on the table (on my lap, under a big napkin is often a safer bet!)

Don’t take “free stuff”

A very common scam in touristy European places is people will offer you something for free “as a gift”, but then demand you (or one of your travel buddies) pay for it.

Some examples include…

• Friendship bracelets

Generally, they will set up shop in busy, touristy areas, so remember to be especially cautious in these areas.

Don’t sign any petitions

Another common scam is the petition scam, usually run by groups of young women.

They’ll come ask you to sign a petition (often first breaking the ice by asking if you speak English) and then either demand a donation from you, or distract you as someone else picks your pockets.

… So if someone asks you to sign a petition, just ignore and walk away. Better safe than sorry!

Rudeness is the way to get rid of scammers

On that note, if you find yourself in a situation where you are being followed or confronted by one of the aforementioned scammers, the best thing to do is ignore them and walk away.

They can be very persistent, but will give up eventually when you ignore them.

Limit the amount of cash you bring out with you

I always say to plan for ‘worst case scenario’, so another one of my top Europe safety tips is to not bring around more cash than you’d stand to lose.

Once upon a time, my friend was carrying around hundreds of euros in her bag (at the start of her trip) and was pickpocketed in Nice on her very first day! Pickpockets work quickly and unexpectedly, so don’t bring out more than you’d be okay losing.

Store your cards separately

On a similar note, make sure to not carry all your cards in one wallet, so that (in case you are pickpocketed), you have a back-up.

I would recommend keeping one card in your suitcase, or in a separate bag.

Don’t make yourself appear to be a good target for robbery

Sometimes when I’m travelling I’ll see people doing photoshoots posing with their designer shopping bags, completely oblivious to the fact that they’re making themselves targets.

Worse, sometimes they just leave the bags on a bench or on the stairs while they’re occupied on their phone.

If I were to write a “how to get robbed in Europe” article, these are the types of behaviours that would make the list, so make sure you’re not making yourself a clear target, and don’t wear unnecessarily flashy outfits or accessories which might catch a thief’s eye.

Keep your phone out of reach

Phone snatchings are becoming a really common crime, especially in big cities like London, so avoid having your phone haphazardly out, or at least be sure to pay more attention when you do, especially…

• If you’re standing close to doors on public transport
• If you’re walking along a bike lane or road

Be careful of bike lanes

Speaking of bike lanes, here’s another important (physical) Europe safety tip: be mindful of them.

If you’re like me and come from somewhere that they’re not overly common, it’s way too easy to accidentally walk onto them and potentially get yourself run over (or more likely, make yourself an annoyance to a cyclist just trying to get home).

Beware of strangers asking you to go for drinks randomly

This is a scam that’s more prevalent in famous party cities, but if a random person (usually an unreasonably attractive woman) comes up to you off the street and asks you to grab a drink, odds are rather good that they’re not just a friendly local looking to grab drinks with a stranger.

This is a common scam where people (again, usually beautiful women, but not always) will bring targeted tourists into bars they’re working with to get a few drinks, only for these tourists to get charged extortionate rates for these drinks, because you never question how much stuff costs when you’re trying to flirt.

Extreme stories even say that bar staff will block the door until the tourists pay up.

Moral of the story: if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

And beware of children

A general rule of thumb is this: if a kid is confidently coming up to you and/or getting close unannounced, keep your valuables close and watch your pockets. This is often a distraction tactic used by pickpockets, and sadly some kids are also trained to steal from a young age too.

I almost lost my wallet in Bratislava this way, when a woman asked me to take her photo and her kid started running around me as a distraction.

I realized pretty quickly what was happening and caught my pickpocket literally with her hand in my purse. Luckily, I was able to swat her hand away just in time.

Buy some small locks to put around your zippers

Another great travel hack I’ve picked up over the years is simply buying a set of small cable locks  like these  and keeping one in each bag.

That way, you can quickly lock your zippers together in crowded situations and prevent anyone from randomly opening your bag.

Simple, but effective.

Look up common taxi rates and scams before arriving

While I’m a firm believer that public transport is the way to go, sometimes you might need to take a taxi, whether it’s because you’re arriving late, running late, or just want to splurge a little.

While this varies depending on the country, taxis are often prime scam zones! I’ve personally been scammed by taxis in  Prague  and also in  Sofia.

Particularly if you are leaving from busy areas like airports or train stations, some opportunistic drivers will take advantage. This is how I got charged 4x the usual fare in Sofia, mainly because I didn’t know better.

So, if you plan on taking a taxi, make sure you search up how much that route should generally cost, and also familiarize yourself with common scams.

Know the emergency numbers

In North America, 911 is the go-to when you have any kind of emergency, but the numbers are different in Europe.

Within the EU (and a handful of other countries), the general emergency number is 112, and most countries will have other numbers for more specific emergency services as well.

So, be sure to take note of what these are before your trip, although I’ve heard anecdotally that 911 should reroute to emergency services as well.

Avoid sketchy EuroNet ATMs

If you’re going to an ATM, try your best to find one that’s connected to an actual bank.

There are a lot of ATMs (especially around tourist areas) that charge huge fees, or make currency conversion more confusing than it needs to be so you can get charged more.

As a general rule, don’t use any of those Euronet ATMs – they’re the worst!

Have a plan in case of a worst case scenario

This isn’t just a good Europe travel tip, but a good tip for travelling anywhere – make a plan for the worst case scenario.

Imagine your bags get stolen with your passports and all your cash/cards – what would be your backup plan? What would you do if you lost your phone?

Having a plan in place can minimize stress in the event that anything does happen, and having that peace of mind is very important for any vacation!

Get a good VPN

If you plan to be travelling longer-term, getting a reliable VPN is a must.

In short, VPNs (or Virtual Private Networks) mask your IP address and encrypt your data so that you can protect your identity online, browse anonymously, and even change the geographical location you’re browsing from.

This can be helpful in a lot of backpacking situations. In the past, I’ve used a VPN to…

• Access streaming for my favourite TV shows that weren’t available in the country I was travelling in
• Visit sites that were blocked in the country I was travelling in
• Access important sites (e.g. banking portals) that flagged my visit as suspicious because I was in a new country
• Securely browse the Internet with public WiFi knowing my data/identity was protected

As a real cheapskate (especially in my earlier travel days), I’ve tried every free VPN under the sun, and always found them to be unreliable or buggy.

After doing lots of research, I decided to splurge on  Private Internet Access , which I’ve been using for the past few years, and I’ve been loving it. It’s super easy to use, very reliable, and actually (when you break it down) not expensive it all.

Subscribe via  this link  and you can get it for under 3 bucks a month.

Food & Drink Tips for Europe

When in Europe, eating and drinking well is a must! Here are some of my best tips for making the most of Europe’s varied food culture.

Visit grocery stores to save big

Not only is visiting supermarkets abroad just a fun cultural activity in general, you can save a great deal of money by buying snacks/drinks there vs. from vendors as you’re out and about.

If you have cooking facilities at your accommodation, making some of your own meals can also be a huge money-saver, even if you’re just swapping out a sit-down lunch for a picnic one.

Beware that you might need to weigh your own produce

Of course, visiting supermarkets abroad can come with its own healthy dose of culture shocks, one of the main ones being that most countries have their own different method of handling produce.

Should you weigh it? Print a sticker? Just bring it as-is?

The answer will depend, so observe what others are doing before you get caught awkwardly at the cashier with a woman shouting at you in Bulgarian because you didn’t weigh your tomatoes (true story).

Have a quick search of regional specialties before you go

European cuisine is SO diverse, and even within one country, you’ll have all kinds of different regional dishes to try, so I’d recommend doing some research beforehand about the top must-tries, so you can keep an eye out for them.

For example, you might think you know what Italian food is but when you go to actual Italy, you’ll realize that every region has their own special dishes, so be sure to look into what those are before just getting pizza everywhere.

Dine far away from tourist attractions

A general rule of thumb is that any restaurants right next to major tourist attractions are probably gonna have a poor price to quality ratio, since they cater more to tourists who are flush with cash and unlikely to return.

My tip? Just walk a few blocks over before starting your food hunt, or d some research beforehand to find well-rated restaurants near you.

Learn how to spot a tourist trap restaurant

Tourist trappy restaurants are a dime a dozen in Europe’s more popular destinations, so make sure you work on your tourist trap radar.

A few red flags include…

• Big pictures
• The menu being translated into a million languages
• The words “TOURIST MENU” over it
• A really persistent person out front beckoning you to come inside

Double check that places have prices on display before ordering

This may be the oldest scam in Europe’s “let’s extort tourists” playbook, but any restaurant with fair pricing will be transparent with their pricing.

If you come across a restaurant that doesn’t list prices upfront, then run for the hills.

Never assume “it can’t be that bad” because odds are they’ve omitted their prices for a reason and plan to charge you an extortionate amount, like  this place  which went viral for a 500 euro lunch bill.

A quick check of reviews is a must

While I don’t believe reviews are accurate 100% of the time, I do think they’re very helpful for establishing patterns, especially when there’s a bunch of reviews all saying the same thing.

A quick search of the restaurant (even on Google Maps Reviews) can help prevent you from getting scammed or being subject to mediocre food/service.

Lunch specials are usually cheaper

If you’re gonna splurge and treat yourself, lunch might be the time to do it. Many places will offer special deals for lunch, so keep an eye out for those!

Usually the bill won’t come until you ask for it

Generally speaking, the ultra-friendly and proactive customer service you get in North America doesn’t really exist in European countries.

Very rarely will you have servers come up to constantly check on you and ask how you’re doing, so if you’re wondering why nobody has brought the bill around, just get their attention because they don’t tend to drop it off until you ask (doing so without asking is actually considered a bit rude in itself).

Don’t shy away from food tours

If you’re running on limited stomach space but want to try as many local specialties as possible, then food tours are a really fun and delicious option.

Most big destinations in Europe have them these days, and they’re a great way to sample a lot of local foods while also getting a local guide’s perspective and expertise.

Context is key and learning about food (while eating it!) is the best.

Take a cooking class 

Another foodie activity that’s now offered in most European destinations these days is cooking classes.

There’s no better souvenir than learning how to prep your favourite foods once you get home, so definitely consider adding one to your itinerary.

Get used to sparkling water

Sparkling water is a lot more common in certain European countries than in North America, to the point where sometimes it’s the default if you ask for water.

If you’re not a fan of spicy H20, then make sure to specify Still when you order water.

Don’t pay extra for hotel breakfast

Don’t get me wrong, I love a good hotel breakfast when it’s included in the room rate, but if you’re given a choice, you can save a lot of money by going out to get breakfast at a bakery, which is also more fun in my opinion.

When weather permits, picnics are a much better option

I love picnics. They’re such a romantic and affordable way to enjoy a meal, especially when you have a great backdrop.

Make sure you picnic at least once during your trip – I promise you’ll love it! And your wallet will too.

Generally speaking, Europeans eat later than North Americans

After living in Germany for a few years, making dinner plans with friends at home almost put me in a coma. Dinner at 5:30 or 6pm? Wayyyy earlier than most European countries, especially Spain where dinner time is often after 9pm.

Of course, you can take advantage of this cultural difference by getting a table at popular restaurants simply through booking as soon as they open.

Be openminded with trying new foods

I hated beer until I had it in Belgium. I hated cheese until I tried smoked cheese in the Netherlands.

I don’t know how to explain it, but certain food and drink items just taste different, and frankly, better in Europe than they do in North America.

So before you write something off as a food you don’t like, give it a try. You might be pleasantly surprised, especially if it’s the regional specialty.

Get takeout for super cheap with Too Good to Go

One of my favourite (little-known) Europe travel apps is called  Too Good to Go.

They service many major European cities, and basically, it’s a free app that restaurants use to sell their leftover food at the end of the day (sometimes at lunch too).

This helps minimize food waste, and means you can pick up an entire take out meal for less than 5 euros.

Sure, you don’t get to choose what you get, but it’s an excellent way to eat cheap and help reduce waste at the same time.

Culture & Etiquette Tips for Europe

Tourists can often have a reputation for being rude… but not you! Not on my watch. Here are some culture and etiquette tips to keep in mind for your trip to Europe.

Culturally, Europe is a million different entities

One of my biggest pet peeves when it comes to Europe travel advice is when books or sites tell you “In Europe, tipping is like…”, “In Europe, locals are…”

… Which I know is kind of ironic in an article simply called “Europe Travel Tips” but shhh just go with it.

Long story short: Europe is composed of dozens of countries, each with their unique cultural nuances and norms, so be sure to research culture tips specifically for where you’re going, because things like tipping, queuing, meal times, etc. can vary considerably across the continent.

Learn at least hello and thank you 

While visitors can often survive just fine without learning the local language, i’s generally good manners to know basics such as hello and thank you for every country you visit.

… So be sure to practice that a bit before you go!

Do not tip by North American standards

As I previously mentioned, tipping in Europe does vary from country to country, but never would a 20% tip be considered the bare minimum like in North America sometimes.

So, be sure to research tipping culture in your destination before you go. In many countries, tipping involves simply rounding up.

Try to not speak too loud

In Europe, North Americans generally have a reputation for being… loud. Sometimes obnoxiously so.

So if you’re out in public, try to lower the volume of your voice to closer match what’s around you (easier said than done, I know, but something to be mindful of).

When in doubt, mimic the locals 

Cultural norms can vary widely from place to place, so your best bet is to just observe the status quo and try to imitate that.

If nobody is chatting on the train, it’s probably a good sign that you shouldn’t either. If everybody is lining up in an orderly queue, maybe you should join that queue instead of barging in the front.

Remember, tourists can have a reputation for being disrespectful and annoying, so try your best to shatter that stereotype wherever you go.

Look into festivals and folk events to attend 

One of the most amazing things about Europe as a continent is that it is so deeply rooted in heritage and tradition, with some cultural traditions dating back thousands of years.

For a truly unforgettable experience, I’d recommend looking up some fun festivals or events to enjoy. 

Here are some of my favourites I’ve been to:

• September: Bad Dürkheim Wurstmarkt (the world’s largest wine festival)
• September/October: Oktoberfest in Munich (the world’s largest beer festival)
• February: Crazy Days at Cologne Carnival
• March – April: Starkbierfest in Munich (unique strong beer festival)
• March – May: Keukenhof (the world’s largest flower garden)

Packing Tips for Europe

Not sure what to wear and what to pack for Europe? Here are my top Europe packing tips.

Steal my pre-made packing lists

If you’re overwhelmed with what to pack, I’ve already made some packing lists that you can use as a starting point!

Download them, print them, mail them to all your friends and exes! I hope you get tons of use out of them:

• My Europe winter packing list
• My Europe summer packing list
• My versatile minimalist packing list
• My toiletries packing list

Don’t bring any suitcases you can’t carry

I’ve always been an advocate for packing light, but a good rule of thumb is to not bring any suitcases you aren’t physically capable of carrying yourself.

There’s a million and one scenarios where you might have to end up carrying your suitcase in Europe, like…

• Your hotel or accommodation unexpectedly has no elevator
• The elevator you were counting on at the train station is out of order
• You need to carry your bag up some ancient staircase to get to your accommodation
• You need to lift your suitcase on/off the train you’re taking

So yes, whatever bag or suitcase you bring, make sure you’re able to carry it yourself.

Good walking shoes are a must

I cannot explain to you how much walking you’ll end up doing, so comfortable shoes are much more important than cute stylish ones.

That said, if you’re able to find comfortable walking shoes that are a bit dressier, opt for those over beat up runners.

Generally speaking, casual wear in Europe is more dressed up than what we’re used to in North America, so packing a nice pair of white sneakers or comfy leather boots would definitely be a more versatile choice over hole-filled running shoes.

Buy AirTags to track your suitcases

With airlines losing baggage all the time these days, I’ve finally caved and bought an AirTag to track my checked bag.

And honestly? I regret nothing! I love the ease of mind it provides, and should a thief ever nab my bag one day, I feel very smug knowing I’ll be able to track them down.

Pack an emergency outfit in your carry-on

On a similar note, one Europe packing tip I live by is always having an emergency set of clothes in your carry-on bag.

Checked bags get lost all the time, so having extra clothes with you is key for ease of mind. I usually bring all the top essentials with me in my carry-on. Better safe than sorry!

Pack clothes with hidden inner pockets rather than a money belt

While many travel experts tout the the benefits of money belts, I’ve honestly never been able to get on board with them. They’re awkward, sweaty, and reaching under your clothes to get change for an ice cream is just… not my idea of fun.

Instead of a money belt, I always have either:

• A backpack with a zippered pocket in the back, which makes it inaccessible to anyone else when worn
• A crossbody purse with a pocket on the backside, again making it inaccessible to anyone so long as I hold it close to me 
• A jacket with inner pockets so it’s impossible to reach in without getting super super close

These anti-theft methods are a LOT more comfortable to me than a money belt… so remember: a money belt isn’t the only way!

Bring a universal adapter

Power sockets in most European countries have two round holes and if you’re visiting from overseas, odds are you’ll need an adapter for your plugs to fit.

I’d strongly recommend buying a universal adapter  like this one  if you don’t have one already. Not only is it good for the standard round hole outlets, but it can also work for the three prong plugs in the UK, Malta, and Cyprus.

It’s cheap, can be re-used for every trip, and covers you in all situations. Definitely some of the best money I’ve ever spent!

Use packing cubes to organize and compress your clothes

I am such a packing cubes fangirl.

These beauties are a magical way to keep all your goods organized, while saving space in your bag as well. Gone are the days that you rummage through your entire pack for a particular t-shirt!

Not all packing cubes have to be expensive either. There’s plenty of affordable options on Amazon, like this blue set from  Amazon Basics , but you definitely get what you pay for.

PS: I’m a total packing cube nerd and once bought a bunch of different brands to compare. See my full  packing cube showdown  for more.

Pack a re-usable bag for purchases

Single use bags are slowly getting phased out in Europe, so I find it’s always a good idea to bring an extra bag or two whenever I travel, whether to stash my souvenir haul for the day or to carry around snacks.

So, when in doubt, pack a tote or two! They can be such lifesavers.

DIY your own travel sized toiletries

This is a very basic  packing tip  I always recommend, but rather than buy the bottles of toiletries which give you like, three good squeezes of shampoo, I find it’s easier (and more eco-friendly) these days to buy small reusable bottles that you can fill with your own toiletries of choice.

This allows you to bring your favourite products with you, and saves needless one-use toiletries from ending up in the landfill.

Need help picking the right one?  Read my guide to  reusable toiletry bottles  for more info.

Final Europe Travel Tips to Know Before You Go

Alright, before I let you get back to… your real life, friends, and family, here are some final random Europe travel tips to keep in mind.

Having cash is important

With the exception of Northern Europe and some parts of the UK, cash is still important to carry around, whether for small purchases or for essentials like using the washroom. Keeping coins is also a good idea.

So, don’t forget that cash is still king in many parts of Europe!

Claim VAT refunds at the airport

Taxes are generally built into the price in Europe, so many travellers don’t realize they are paying up to to 20% in VAT (Value Added Tax) for everything they purchase.

The good news is, when it comes to goods that you are buying and taking home (e.g. clothes, gifts, etc.), non-residents of Europe are eligible for a refund on this VAT that you pay.

VAT refund rules vary from country to country, but usually there’s a minimum spend amount in one single location (around 175 EUR in most cases).

So, keep this in mind and you can get a good chunk of change back. To get the step by step process, Google your destination + VAT refund, as the process does differ country to country.

Floors start at zero so don’t get confused 

If you’ve seen Emily in Paris you’ll already know this one.

The floor system in European buildings tends to differ from North America.

Whereas in North America, the ground floor is often the 1st floor, the ground floor is considered its own separate entity in most countries (i.e. Floor 0) and then the next one above that would be the 1st floor.

Prepare for beds to be different

Bed sizes in Europe tend to be smaller, and doubles can often just be two single beds pushed together (so romantic, I know).

Depending on where you go, the pillows and comforters can be different as well, like in Germany where they’ve randomly decided that the optimal shape for a pillow is square. *shudder*

Beware of words you know that may mean a different thing in other languages

For example, a menu for North Americans is a list of dishes you can order, but a menu in France means a set meal or combo.

Similarly, entrées in North America are the main course, when in France, it means appetizer.

Use Google Maps to save spots you want to see

Google Maps is an amazing resource not just for navigating a new city, but also for saving spots you might want to visit in the future.

One of my favourite  travel hacks  is starring every location I deem interesting on Google Maps. You can do this by pressing the Save button when you search up that spot.

This allows you to have a visual map of all the cool cafes, street art murals, attractions, restaurants, etc. that you’ve saved during your research, which means you can easily organize your itinerary/sightseeing.

I love doing this because I’ll often end up in new areas during my explorations, and I can just look at my map to see if anything interesting I read about happens to be nearby. Saves a lot of planning!

Need customer support? Hop on Twitter

Don’t ask me why this is, but if you need to get ahold of customer support during your trip (e.g. an airline, a train company, etc.), usually the quickest response time will be through Twitter.

The best way to tell if you’ll get a reply on Twitter is by checking the official accounts’ replies – if there are recent replies to Tweets, odds are good that there’s a dedicated staff member monitoring the account.

This of course works in non-travel settings as well!

Get crowdless photos by using this cool photo hack

For iPhone users, there’s a super easy way to get cool photos in crowded places without getting a bunch of people in the shot.

Simply follow these steps:

• Turn on Live photo
• Pose for your photo, making sure to stand still
• Get your photographer to snap a few photos of you standing still
• Edit the photo by going in the upper left corner, click on the LIVE button with the downwards arrow, and turn on Long Exposure
• The crowds walking around you should now be blurry, with you still in focus

Binge on movies set in your destination before your visit

You know, I could binge travel quotes all day but nothing will put me in more of a wanderlusty mood that a good movie set somewhere beautiful.

So, if you binge travel movies set in your destination, I promise your trip will be 1000000x times more enjoyable when you recognize the sights that you’re seeing. Trust me.

Consider learning the Cyrillic alphabet

If you are travelling somewhere that uses the Cyrillic alphabet, it can be very beneficial to learn how to read it.

This is because sometimes destination names at train/bus stations are written only in the local alphabet, which can lead to a lot of confusion if you’re unfamiliar with it.

European countries that use the Cyrillic alphabet include…

• North Macedonia

Remember: Europe is more about the experience than it is about seeing a million sights

Last but not least, I have to say… Europe is beautiful, yes. It’s packed to the brim with gorgeous museums, architecture, natural beauty, etc. BUT at the end of the day, what you need to focus more is on the experience of just being present and enjoying every moment.

Don’t stress yourself out too much with a heavy itinerary and trying to cram as much as possible in.

Enjoy it! Because your trip will go by far quicker than you think.

I hope this list of Europe travel tips was helpful!

If you’ve made it this far, wow. I applaud the stamina. And patience! This ha admittedly been a VERY long list of tips for Europe, but if you have any more questions, let me know in the comments… and be sure to read my list of unconventional travel hacks if you’re eager for more.

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

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India Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

I’ve never been to India. I know. Crazy, right? It’s not that I don’t want to go but life has just always gotten in the way. However, India is a place a lot of people visit and, since I can’t write about it, I want to bring in someone who can: my friend Mariellen Ward. She’d a travel writer who has been going to India since 2005 and runs the website Breathedreamgo . We’ve known each other since 2010. Today, she’s going to share some tips on how to visit India for first-time visitors.

I will never forget my first time visiting India. My first car trip in Delhi felt like a roller-coaster ride. Cars and trucks of every size, overloaded bicycles and motorcycles, and even the occasional bullock cart, seemed to be coming at me from every direction. No one was paying any attention to lanes or the rules of the road. Vehicles were driving the wrong way. I couldn’t make sense of what was happening.

I had heard about the “sensory overload” travelers feel in India, and now I was experiencing it. It was exciting and nerve-wracking in equal measure. And just a taste of things to come.

I spent six months crisscrossing the subcontinent on my first trip, back in 2005 and was often overwhelmed by the huge crowds, the foreign traditions, the perplexing bureaucracy, the mind-boggling complexity, and the bewildering culture shock.

These things combined make India a challenging — though very exciting and rewarding —destination.

However, if you read and follow these travel tips for first-time visitors, they could help smooth out some of the more disorienting bumps.

1. Slow down

It takes time and some know-how to successfully navigate in India. This is not a place for hurried travel. Don’t try and see as much as you can; that is not the right approach. It’s tiring to travel in India, and the object should be to experience it, not to check things off a list.

As a general rule, for every two weeks you are in India, pick one region. For a one-month trip, just pick two regions — say, two weeks in Rajasthan and two weeks in Kerala . You can even sit in one place and still not miss anything. No matter what, if you are in India, you will experience India.

2. Adjust your attitude

Likewise, accept that things will not go as planned. Cultivate the philosophy that things happen the way they are supposed to, not the way they are planned. This attitude can lead to the most marvelous adventures.

3. Be careful who you trust

Having said that it’s a good idea to be open, a healthy level of skepticism also comes in really handy in India. There are many con men there, especially in the travel and hospitality sector. They have a sixth sense for first-time visitors and will try and take advantage.

So, learn the prices by asking locals and other travelers before negotiating with auto-rickshaw drivers and market vendors. Don’t believe drivers — or random people you come across at airports, train stations, and tourist attractions — who tell you things such as your hotel burned down, or the train you want was canceled.

Often, an opportunity to make money off of you will spur creative tactics, and some of these scams can easily catch you off guard. Once, I was looking for a new iPhone case and the vendor showed me one and told me it was made by Apple. But a close look revealed four spelling mistakes in one short sentence engraved inside the case.

4. Practice safe travel

There are also anecdotal reports of women being molested, especially in busy, crowded places. Follow basic precautions and safe travel strategies, and use common sense in India.

Here are several safety travel tips (please read my top tips for women traveling in India for more details):

• Buy a local SIM card so that you can make local calls and stay in touch.
• Research carefully where you want to go, ensuring it is an area frequented by other travelers, with good infrastructure and hotels.
• Plan your travel so you don’t arrive late at night; travel during daylight hours only.
• Be careful when posting to social media, so that you are not revealing your current location.
• Stay alert to your surroundings, and keep a close eye on your handbag and luggage.
• Keep the Tourist Helpline number handy and call if you need any assistance: 1-800-111363.

5. Try a small group tour

For your first time in India, try taking a small group or custom tour to help you get your feet wet. My company, India for Beginners , was founded to help women travel safely and well in India. We offer a few small group tours, but we specialize in creating custom tours and providing a high level of personal service, such as meeting travelers at the airport and assigning a tour manager who is available 24/7. We hold your hand in India!

6. Take the train

Taking a train in India is a great experience and should not be missed. However, you need some basic knowledge about the classes and the trains. You may not want to dive into sleeper class or general class immediately; I would recommend 2AC (second class with air conditioning) or CC (chair car). Or even 1AC (first class with air conditioning) or EC (executive chair car).

Shatabdi and Rajdhani trains are among the best in India, so try and book one of these. Overnight trains can be a problem because they don’t clean the toilets at night, so keep that in mind when you book.

7. Eat the food

India is one of the world’s great culinary destinations, and first-time visitors should not shy away from trying all the delicious cuisine on offer, even street food. Some of the famous Indian items you shouldn’t miss are masala chai, sweet lassi, biryani, pakoras, dosas, and sweets such as gulab jamun and kheer.

It’s hard to avoid getting sick in India, though, because you never know when a tainted item will cross your plate. It could be at a street stall or a five-star restaurant. However, you can reduce the chances of getting sick by following these basic rules:

• Drink filtered or bottled water only.
• Watch for undistilled water in ice or sauces.
• Avoid salad and other raw food unless you can peel it (such as an orange or banana).
• Eat only food that is freshly cooked.
• Look for busy stalls and restaurants with high turnover.

8. Get a local SIM card

Everything in India runs on WhatsApp, one-time password (OTP) verification, and text messages. Because of this, you need a local number. To do so, get a local SIM at the airport when you arrive. Still, you may have trouble paying for things online with a foreign credit card, as India requires OTP verification, and getting registered with Indian Railways so you buy train tickets online is nearly impossible.

9. Remember where you are

For example, unless you’re on the beach in Goa, it’s wise to wear modest clothing in India . Long, loose, and flowing are key for dressing for the climate and the culture.

It’s also best to be very respectful, especially with regard to the myriad religions. And be aware that genders relate differently in India, and overfriendliness can be misconstrued. Be polite, but with strangers, and especially those working in the hospitality sector, it’s usually best to dial back effusive friendliness.

10. Follow the seasons

Weather and the season matter in India. It’s incredibly hot almost everywhere in May and June, the monsoon season is July to August, and it’s surprisingly cold in north India in winter, December to February. Do some research and find out the best places to visit in India by season .

So, when it’s cold in north India, head down to tropical Kerala or Goa and hit the beach. In the heat of summer, check out Ladakh, a high desert plateau that sometimes seems otherworldly. Note: Fall is festival season, so you can experience Durga Puja in Kolkata, Diwali in Jaipur, or the Camel Fair in Pushkar.

11. Visit attractions in the morning

(However, this rule does not apply to shopping. Stores, and even restaurants, tend not to open until 10 or even 11 am. Urban Indians tend to do everything late. Breakfast and lunch are late, and dinner can be very late indeed.)

12. Head into the countryside

You can go trekking in the mountains, take a tiger safari , visit one of the many national parks, camp out overnight on a sand dune in Rajasthan, or take a boat cruise on the Brahmaputra River.

And don’t forget the rural areas. Most Indians still live in villages. It’s really worthwhile to meander through the quaint villages of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, or Uttarakhand.

India is not an easy place to travel. It’s not a relaxing vacation destination. It is, though, an experience — often a life-changing experience. Start by doing research, read books about India , watch movies about the country, learn about the cultures and various destinations, and get ready for a transformative travel experience.

Like many before you — from The Beatles to Steve Jobs to Elizabeth Gilbert — you may just fall in love with the place. As writer Rumer Godden said, “Once you have felt the dust of India, you will never be free of it.”

Mariellen Ward fell in love with India, with travel, and with travel blogging on her first trip to the country in 2005. She has spent more than seven years of the last 18 in India, and now lives there. Though Canadian by birth, Mariellen considers India to be her “soul culture.” With her travel blog, Breathedreamgo , she tries to encourage and help other female travelers to go after their dreams. And her custom tour company, India for Beginners , is dedicated to helping women travel safely and well in India.

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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16 Tips on how to assemble a perfect travel first-aid kit

by Anne Betts | Dec 31, 2022 | Health, Safety and Comfort | 5 comments

Updated December 31, 2022

How do you assemble a perfect travel first-aid kit , yet still manage to pack light? I don’t claim to have a universal solution, but the following works for me.

Table of Contents

1. Identify your needs in travel first-aid kit

2. never packing ‘what-if’ items doesn’t apply to a first-aid kit, 3. build your kit from scratch, 4. get sound advice, 5. help out other travellers if possible, 6. adopt packing light strategies, 7. get prescriptions filled before departure, 8. verify the legality of your medication in your destination country , 9. label everything, 10. have access to medicinal information and first-aid advice, 11. review your kit before each trip, 12. list kit contents, 13. identify factors affecting kit contents, 14. individualize your kit, 15. and to complement my first-aid kit…, 16. back home, reach into the travel first-aid kit, in summary…, how to assemble a perfect travel first-aid kit.

Use these 15 tips to assemble a perfect travel first-aid kit considering your destination, activities, and health needs while still packing light.  

Each kit is different. A first step is figuring out what you expect of yours. Here are some ideas:

• It has what’s needed to respond to illness and injuries given the destination, season, activities, and health needs of those who depend on the kit.
• It contains enough supplies to deal with minor injuries and illnesses until it’s possible to get to the nearest clinic or pharmacy. Besides, no one wants to spend valuable travel time navigating a new destination, especially when feeling unwell. 
• It takes existing health issues into consideration, and travel related injuries and illnesses given past experience.
• It contains trusted supplies written in a familiar language and acquired at a cost that may be cheaper at home than at your destination.
• It’s small enough, and light enough, to carry at all times (or have key items always accessible).

Packing light travellers advocate never packing ‘what-if’ items.

A first-aid kit is an exception. It’s like that emergency medical insurance you hope to never have to use. Returning home with a kit that was never opened, or tossing expired medication that was never used, are indications of healthy, injury-free travels.

Assemble your own first-aid kit. It gives you more control over the contents and the container. By all means, look for clues from pre-assembled kits, but there’s a good chance an off-the-shelf kit won’t meet your needs. Cobble together your own, considering your destination, activities, and health needs. Chances are it will be cheaper, lighter, smaller, and more useful than a generic version.

Bloggers, especially those with a healthcare background, are helpful sources of ideas. For specific advice, consult a professional health care provider. Your family doctor and pharmacist are aware of your health issues, and can suggest compatible OTC (Over-The-Counter) medication. Your pharmacist can also provide suggestions on generic (and cheaper) alternatives to brand-name products. A travellers’ clinic specializes in preparing people for worldwide travel.

Unhealthy or injured travelling companions impact on all members of a group. My first-aid kit has responded to the occasional health issues of others, and I’ve been the grateful beneficiary of supplies from another person’s kit.

The right supplies in the right quantities add very little weight, and are invaluable if they allow everyone to get on with their travels.

• While cycling beside the canals of the Netherlands , a blister pack containing two Tylenol tablets treated a companion’s splitting headache.
• A couple of Loperamide tablets enabled us to continue exploring Singapore when my nephew was suddenly struck with an attack of Travellers’ Diarrhea .
• When hiking the trails of Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia, a piece of anti-blister tape protected a friend’s heel from further chafing.
• When hiking the Banks Track in New Zealand, another hiker gave me some hiking wool to help prevent chafing of sensitive areas. 

If your kit is large and heavy, you’ll be tempted to leave it at home, or back at your accommodation. A first-aid kit should be small enough, light enough, and functional enough to have a permanent place in your day bag.

• Look for travel-friendly sizes. Check out truck stops, drug stores, dollar stores, and hiking and outdoor stores for products packaged in small sizes. Google “OTC medication travel sizes” and you may discover online suppliers in your country of residence. This is how I stumbled across minimus.biz  with their range of single-dose blister packs of OTC medication and first-aid supplies.

• Dollar-store purchases tend to be much cheaper than those available elsewhere. I find it hurts less to discard expired medication or have folding scissors confiscated by an overzealous security agent if I paid dollar-store prices for the item. 
• Where feasible, choose blister packs of tablets over bottles and liquids, and single-dose blister packs over tubes and bottles.

• Where feasible, transfer or decant to smaller containers.
• Use see-through zip-top pill pouch bags to separate various products.

• Choose a container for your kit that slips easily into a day bag. It will need to be waterproof if you’re involved in activities around water. Otherwise, carry a spare zip-top bag, dry bag , or a rain cover for your daypack.
• Pack a pocket pill container  for storing medication and supplements for use while in transit or on the move.

Your prescriptions are valid only in your home country. Get them filled before leaving home. Pack quantities needed for the duration of the trip, and extra to cover possible travel delays. Ask your pharmacist for the smallest possible labelled container, and ask for the expiry date to be listed.

Scan the information sheets received with the medication, and take the electronic copies with you. For this purpose, I use the app Scanner Pro  and cloud-based app, Dropbox .

Medication that may be legal at home might be illegal in another country. Many countries have their own rules regarding travelling with medication.

Start with an online search for ‘travelling with mediation to ___’ and review the information on authority sites such as the pharmaceutical agency of the country in question. If in doubt, contact the embassy or diplomatic mission for additional information.

If you need to administer any medication with a syringe, it would be wise to obtain a letter from your doctor indicating it’s for personal use.

Don’t separate medication from the manufacturer’s packaging. Keep medication in its sealed package or blister pack to protect its integrity, stability, and effectiveness.

The manufacturer’s packaging helps promote safe use by providing information on medicinal ingredients, dosage instructions, and expiry dates. It’s also useful information to help respond to possible inquiries of border services agents.

Having the medicinal ingredients at your fingertips is handy when trying to purchase additional supplies across a language barrier. If you separate medication from its box, cut up the box and slip the pieces containing relevant information into a small zip-top bag with the blister tabs.

For supplements and probiotics, I find the containers take up too much space. Zip-top bags and reusable prescription containers offer downsizing options.

Before packing or taking any medication, consult an authority site for information and advice.

• How should it be safely stored?
• What temperatures affect its effectiveness?
• Will it cause drowsiness?
• What can or can’t be taken with it?
• Can it be taken on an empty stomach?
• What’s the suggested maximum dosage within a 24-hour period?

Drugs.com is an excellent resource, as is the Traveler Advice Page of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Canadian Red Cross First-Aid app is a useful resource for emergency first-aid advice.

Remaining committed to carry-on travel requires packing with time to spare. I tend to start at least a week before departure, and definitely earlier if I know my first-aid kit needs refreshing. It helps to break packing into manageable chunks, usually by category such as ‘toiletries,’ ‘first-aid kit,’ or ‘clothing.’ For the first-aid kit, this means time to: 

• discard expired medication
• replenish low supplies or missing items
• remove or include destination- or season-specific items
• communicate with others, if not travelling solo, to lighten the load by sharing supplies across first-aid kits.

A detailed list of the contents of your first-aid kit, and those items that complement what’s in the kit, can be helpful. Brand names (and their generic equivalents) aren’t available in all countries, so it’s important to include the medicinal ingredients of each. Store it in a cloud storage app, or where it’s readily accessible on your device.

• keeps you organized when it comes to replenishing or removing supplies;
• is helpful when seeking advice from health care professionals;
• is useful when consulting with travelling companions on sharing first-aid supplies;
• is a reference to avoid overdosing when taking combinations of different medications (e.g., “Tylenol Poisoning” is a real problem; some cold-and-flu medication also contains Acetaminophen/Paracetamol);
• enables you to purchase depleted items with the same or similar medicinal ingredients at your destination; and
• can be easily updated for future travels.

Take into account your own health needs and previous experience in managing them. For example, here are some of the things I considered for recent trips.

Blister prevention and treatment. It’s not uncommon to walk 20 km / 12.5 mi each day, more than at home. Also, feet change. Shoes that fit perfectly when they were purchased might not remain so.

Allergic reactions to insect bites.  Biting insects are my nemesis. The New Zealand sandflies sent me scurrying for antihistamine, and bites from some unknown insect in Australia landed me in the emergency department of a hospital (at a considerable cost) to get a prescription for an antibiotic (that cost $5 to fill). I now ask my doctor for a prescription for both an antibiotic ointment and tablets that can be filled before leaving home.

Digestive ailments. I take medication for acid reflux. This means that Acetaminophen/Paracetamol (e.g., Tylenol) is a safer pain reliever than Ibuprofen (e.g., Advil). Also, with reduced acid in my stomach, I always expect Travellers’ Diarrhea. I also need to plan to deal with occasional and very uncomfortable heartburn.

Minor scrapes.  Most trips involve time on a bike or scooter, increasing the chance of minor scrapes and abrasions.

Respiratory issues. I have a propensity for a bad case of the ‘flu to morph into pneumonia. After remaining insanely healthy during the pandemic, I expected to fall prey to Covid or influenza on my first post-pandemic international trip. This pointed to the need to pack Covid test kits, and my doctor gave me prescriptions for an antibiotic and a puffer, both filled before leaving home.

Staying healthy on long-haul flights. Planes harbour harmful bacteria, and long flights increase the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis. The dry environment contributes to dehydration, dry skin, and sore nasal passages.

In the event it’s helpful, here’s a list of the contents of my kit, based on the considerations described above, and the advice of my family doctor and pharmacist. I favour generic alternatives to brand-name products as they can be considerably cheaper.  

• Anti-diarrhea (e.g., Imodium): Loperamide hydrochloride 2 mg when a blocker is required (e.g., on transit days)
• Antihistamine allergy relief (e.g., Claritin): Loratadine 10mg
• Topical antibiotic for skin infections: Sodium Fusidate 2% (prescription)
• Oral antibiotic for skin infections: Amoxycillin/clavulanic 875/125 mg (prescription)
• Antibiotic for respiratory/bronchial bacterial infections and severe Travellers Diarrhea: Azithromycin dehydrate 250 mg (prescription)
• Anti-nauseant (e.g., Gravol): Dimenhydrinate 50 mg
• Blister prevention and treatment: Dr. Scholl’s Moleskin Plus ; Moleskin pre-cut and shaped by Adventure Medical Kits ; Polysporin Blister Treatment Cushions; Spenco 2nd Skin Adhesive Knit ; blister prevention wool ; BAND-AID ® Blister Cushion
• Cough, cold and ‘flu relief: Sambucol Black Elderberry Pastilles
• Heartburn relief: Tums Extra Strength  (Calcium carbonate 750 mg)
• Antiseptic: tea tree oil
• Miscellaneous aids: cotton wool buds ( Organyc ); cotton balls; tweezers (remove splinters, thorns, ticks, debris); safety pins (remove splinters, thorns, fashion a sling, miscellaneous uses); folding scissors ( Fiskars )
• Pain relief, fever reducer: Extra Strength Tylenol (Acetaminophen 500 mg)
• Wound care: MooreBrand Gauze Pads (2” x 2”); Webcol Alcohol Prep Pads (Isopropyl Alcohol 70%); 3M Steri-Strips ; waterproof bandages ; variety of sizes and shapes of plasters

All these supplies fit in a soft-sided zippered packing organizer measuring 17 x 10 cm / 7 x 4 in and weighing 218 g / 7.7 oz.

• compression socks
• clear duct tape (to keep a bandage in place)
• emergency ID bracelet
• flashlight: FourSevens MiNi X
• immune support: Ener-C drink mix ; NOW Oregano Veg Capsules 450 mg
• insect repellent: Mosquito Shield Piactive (Icaridin 20%)
• electrolyte hydration supplement (exercise, flights, hot climates): NUUN Sport
• Nature’s Aid all-natural skin gel with healing and soothing properties for allergic reactions, minor scrapes, sunburn, and inflamed muscles
• laminated Emergency Contact Card

• nasal soreness: Boroleum (Petrolatum 97.92%; Camphor 1%; Menthol 0.54%)
• pashmina (doubles as a makeshift sling)
• probiotics: Saccharomyces Boulardii
• activated charcoal
• sanitizing wipes: EO Lavender plastic-free bamboo wipes
• Soap Leaves: Sea to Summit
• sunscreen: All good sunscreen butter
• tablet towels
• reusable dry bag to make an ice pack

Rather than keeping separate supplies in a home medicine cabinet and a travel first-aid kit, anything with an expiry date should be utilized when it’s needed. Purging a a travel first-aid kit of expired medication can be costlier than it needs to be, especially if you’ve enjoyed healthy and injury-free travels. 

• Avoid pre-assembled kits. Build your own.
• Be strategic. Base kit contents on your destination, season, activities, and health needs.
• Get advice from health care professionals.
• Look for medication and supplies in travel sizes.
• Don’t separate medication from its packaging.
• Keep a record of the exact medicinal ingredients of what’s in your kit.
• NEVER, NEVER, NEVER travel without emergency medical insurance. When your kit comes up short, an early visit to a healthcare centre could be the best financial decision you’ll make. 

With thanks to Adrian Comeau, Pharmacist, Saulnierville Pharmacy, for his helpful suggestions and advice.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are for general travel health information only. It’s not a replacement for a personal consultation with your doctor, pharmacist or travel medicine specialist.

Might you be interested in these related posts?

• Useful tips on how to prevent and treat travellers’ diarrhea
• 10 Essentials of packing for a travel medical emergency
• Create a travel comfort pack for easy access to self-care essentials
• 25 Ideas on how to prepare an emergency preparedness toolkit for travellers
• It could save your life. Get an emergency ID bracelet for travellers
• How to make a traveller’s emergency contact card in 5 easy steps
• A MacGyver kit for travel: 20 simple ideas
• Travel with tablet towels: a multipurpose essential every traveller should pack
• No soap? No problem travelling with soap leaves
• Travelling with duct tape: 30 practical uses
• 10 Useful reasons to travel with dry bags

If you found this post helpful, please share it by selecting one or more social media buttons. What’s in your travel first-aid kit? What additional tips can you offer? Please add your thoughts in the comments. Thank you.

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Your thinking is so thorough! I will definitely reread this when the time comes to prepare for my next trip. The one I have with me now is twice the size of yours…

Thank you for this! The steps are so on-point! I’ve been thinking of assembling me and family’s first-aid kit, not because we’re travelling soon but because of the natural calamities happening. We do not know when a storm’s gonna hit or when will there be an earthquake that’s why i’m searching on what to put in a first-aid kit. I’m so thankful I came across this post. This is so helpful! Thank you so much!

Great piece of advice on how to carry your first aid kit while travelling.

Great tips! I love making sure my first aid box is full of everything we might need. I’d suggest every parent take a first aid course so they are prepared.

Very informative read! I agree one must be equipped with a proper first aid kit before venturing out to a new place for vacation or a visit. I usually keep medicines for allergy, gold cough, stomach ache, muscle ache and most importantly for any injury.

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Traveling to Dubai for the First Time (2024): 19 Tips & Tricks

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

Traveling to Dubai (United Arab Emirates) for the first time  and not sure where to start? Indeed, planning a trip to Dubai might be overwhelming, even more so if this is your first time in this rapidly growing and continuously changing city!

When is the best time to visit? How much time do you need in Dubai? What are the best areas to stay in and how to travel around? Do you need to pre-book tickets or can you just go with the flow? How to save time and money and still see the best that Dubai has to offer?

Dubai is a city of contrasts, a place where modern extravagance and traditional values go hand in hand. From its towering skyscrapers to its pristine beaches and bustling souks, visiting Dubai is like stepping into a different world…

To help you plan your first trip to this dynamic and unique city, in this guide we share some of our top travel tips for visiting Dubai .

We have visited Dubai several times and all the information and tips in this article are based on our personal experience. Some of these tricks we only learned after several trips…

This practical guide includes all the info I wish we had known before planning a trip to Dubai. These tips will not only help you plan your trip, but will also show you how to make the best of your visit, time, and budget. Find out!

Top 5 Experiences in Dubai:

• Burj Khalifa (book in advance + opt for the level 148 ticket for priority access).
• Desert Safari.
• Museum of the Future (book well in advance!).
• Luxury Yacht Tour .
• Abu Dhabi Day Trip .

Here are our top travel tips for visiting Dubai:

1. Avoid Traveling in Summer

Dubai is known for its scorching temperatures, especially during the summer months. To give you an idea, average daytime temperatures during June, July, and August are well over 40°C (104°F). Even in April or November, Dubai temperatures usually still exceed 30°C (86°F).

The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months – between December and February. The daytime temperatures at this time of the year are usually around 25°C (77°F). So it’s still warm enough to enjoy beaches, pools, and waterparks, but the temperatures are also pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Good to know: Winter is also the peak tourist season in Dubai. So expect accommodation prices to be higher and more crowds at the main attractions. However, with some advance planning and preparation, you can still have a very enjoyable visit, more than in the summer.

The shoulder season – the months of March-April or October-November – can be a good time to visit Dubai as well. If you don’t mind temperatures of around 30-35°C (86-95°F), you can take advantage of somewhat lower prices and fewer crowds than in the winter.

In addition, you may want to check when Ramadan is. During this month, most Muslims do not eat from sunrise to sunset, so many restaurants will be closed during the day. This may might impact your experience, depending on the places you visit.

TIP: No matter when you visit Dubai, be prepared for the heat by wearing lightweight, breathable clothing, using sun protection, and staying hydrated. Plan outdoor activities for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat.

READ ALSO: What It’s Like to Visit Dubai in February

2. Book Attraction Tickets in Advance

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when planning a trip to Dubai is not to plan/book attraction tickets in advance.

Booking in advance means more time slots to choose from, better prices, and less time wasted queuing.  After all, you want to make the most of your trip to Dubai and not spend all your precious time standing in lines.

Good to know: Tickets to many popular attractions in Dubai are often sold out at least a few days in advance. Furthermore, many tickets are cheaper if booked online. In addition, some attraction tickets, e.g. Atlantis Aquaventure , cost less if you book at least a week before your visit.

For some places, not reserving in advance means that you won’t be able to visit at all.  For example, the Museum of the Future is so popular that all tickets are usually sold out at least 2-3 weeks upfront. If you want to be able to choose the time slot that fits you best, you need to book at least a month in advance.

If you want to visit observation decks at Burj Khalifa or Dubai Frame , you also need to book ahead. In most cases, a few days in advance is sufficient, but it really depends on the period when you travel and how flexible you are. Also, consider visiting these attractions early in the morning or late in the evening for smaller crowds and better photo opportunities.

PRO TIP: For Burj Khalifa, we recommend getting a ticket that includes Level 148 . Not only you get to visit another level which is not included with standard tickets, but you also get skip-the-line access through the security check and at the elevators, and it includes some snacks and drinks. It’s well worth it.

Overall, we always recommend booking tickets and tours at least a month before your trip. But keep in mind that for many popular destinations worldwide booking a month or even two upfront is not sufficient anymore.

Tickets don’t get cheaper and there’s less availability the longer you wait. Plus, if you use GetYourG u ide for all attraction tickets and tours like we do, you can take advantage of their very flexible cancelation policy.

Good to know: Booking tickets/tours via websites like GetYourGuide , Viator , or Tiqets also saves you money on exchange rates. The exchange rate they use is the official rate and transactions are in your currency. Whereas if you pay on the spot, it will usually cost you quite a lot more (not only because many tickets are more expensive at the counter, but also because of credit card fees, exchange rate deviations, etc.).

Plus, booking and paying ahead makes it easier to budget for your vacation and keep your credit card’s spending limit available for other expenses during your trip.

READ ALSO: Top Places to See & Things to Do in Dubai

3. Foresee Enough Time & Plan Wisely

There is one thing that you may not realize as a first-time visitor to Dubai and that’s how huge the city is. It’s not a place that you can compare to cities like Rome or London , or even New York City where you can still walk between many attractions and see a lot in a short time…

Dubai is totally different! It’s big, not really walkable (except in some areas), and the attractions are spread out all over the enormous and ever-growing city.

Plus, road works and traffic jams turn every ride into an expedition. The same trip that takes 20 minutes at night or early in the morning can take you an hour or even longer during the day. And yes, public transport can be a good option, but it also has its limitations – more about it further below.

Good to know: When planning your sightseeing itinerary, you will see that most Dubai attractions work with timed entry slots. Be sure to foresee plenty of extra time everywhere though! Even with timed entry tickets, you will often be standing in line for an hour or even longer, not to mention the time that it takes to actually visit the place or get from one attraction to the other.

TIP: So while planning what to see and do, foresee enough extra time between the sights and don’t try to do too much in a single day. Also, group the attractions based on their location, and go for a mix of top attractions with some lesser-known ones. That way, you don’t have to rush from one queue to another and your trip will be much more relaxed.

This brings us to the next tip – see below.

4. Don’t Try to See Everything

There is so much to see and do in Dubai that you could easily stay here for a few months and still not experience everything the area has to offer. So resist FOMO and the urge of having to see ‘everything’. It’s simply impossible, especially if you are only traveling to Dubai for just a few days or a week.

TIP: Choose a few places, attractions, and experiences that interest you the most and focus on those rather than ticking off boxes just because some guidebook told you that one or the other place is ‘a must’.

If you absolutely want to go to the top of Burj Khalifa, well – just do it and tick it off your bucket list. After all, how often will you get a chance to visit the world’s tallest building… In that case, book tickets in advance and be prepared to queue, or save time and avoid the crowds with priority access .

On the other hand, maybe you are perfectly content just seeing the building from the outside and rather spend your time visiting other viewing platforms like Sky Views , the View at The Palm , or Dubai Frame …

Or maybe you don’t care about any of these at all and much rather spend a day at a water park , exploring the old town souks (markets), or enjoying the views from a luxury yacht …

Dubai has so much to offer to all types of travelers. So personalize your itinerary based on what you really want to do, taking into account the time that you have, your interests, and your budget. If you are visiting Dubai with the family, try to incorporate some fun activities for the kids in your itinerary as well, even if it means that you’ll have less time for sightseeing.

READ ALSO: Dubai Itinerary (detailed guide for a week in Dubai)

5. Consider Tours & Private Drivers

If you want to see a lot of Dubai in a short time or you don’t know where to even start deciding where to go, consider booking tours or private guides/drivers .

Sometimes, a private driver can also be cheaper than taking a taxi between all those places, and often, you can also find cars that can take up to 6 passengers (vs 4 in most taxis).

Just to be clear, I am talking about quickly seeing multiple places all over the city in a single day. If you want to spend more time exploring the sites, you better go on your own.

There are tons of different ‘city highlights’ tours that bring you to many of the main landmarks of Dubai in (half) a day. Keep in mind that in most cases, your ‘visit’ will be just a quick photo stop, so it’s not comparable to actually visiting the sights. But it’s a good way to get an introduction to Dubai and catch a glimpse of the top spots.

PRO TIP: If you do a city highlights tour, do it at the beginning of your trip! That way, you can later come back to some of the places that you like the most. An ideal way to explore Dubai is to take an introductory city tour first as you arrive and then thoroughly visiting some of the main landmarks and attractions on your own later.

Abu Dhabi day trip tip: One of the best guided tours we recently did in Dubai was this highly-rated tour. If you want to see the top sights of Abu Dhabi in a day, this tour has by far the best itinerary (I compared many tours before we chose this one and it didn’t disappoint).

READ ALSO: Best Abu Dhabi Tours from Dubai (+Review of the Tour We Chose)

6. Save Time & Money with Combination Tickets

Dubai is expensive, there is no arguing about it. But with some smart planning, you can save some money on some of the main attractions.

One of the best ways to do this is by opting for combination tickets and/or city cards that include several popular places.

Here are some of the most popular deals:

• Burj Khalifa + Dubai Aquarium (+-$20 savings per person).
• Atlantis Aquaventure + Lost Chambers Aquarium (+-$25-30 savings per person).
• GoCity Explorer Pass (up to 50% savings, depending on the attractions you visit).

Good to know: Some tickets cost more during the most popular times. For example, Burj Khalifa around sunset. So if you want to save money, be sure to check prices for different time slots/days when making reservations.

7. Stay Longer

You might be wondering how much time you need to see the best of Dubai. Well, there is really no straightforward answer to this and so much depends on your interests.

That being said, I recommend planning at least a week for a first visit to Dubai. But if you have time and your budget allows it, stay longer. You won’t get bored!

With a week in Dubai, you will be able to visit most of the top landmarks, explore several different parts of the city, and also find some time to relax and unwind. If you want to spend more time at the beach or by the pool, visit a water park or a theme park with your kids, or make a day trip to Abu Dhabi, ideally, you plan at least 10-12 days for Dubai.

But don’t worry if your trip is shorter and you can’t extend it. You can have a perfectly enjoyable visit and see a lot even if you only have a day or two in Dubai. Via the link below, you can find plenty of ideas for planning a shorter visit.

LEARN MORE: Dubai Stopover: How to See The Best of Dubai in 1-2 Days

8. Choose the Location of Your Hotel Wisely

Deciding where to stay in Dubai might not be as straightforward as you may think, especially if the main purpose of your visit is to explore the city.

There is not one perfect place to stay in Dubai – it’s simply much too big and too spread out for that.

However, some areas are better than others and some are really a disaster for commute. If you pick the wrong location, you might be stuck in traffic for hours every time you want to go anywhere and do some sightseeing. On the other hand, that same spot might be perfect for those who are mainly interested in swimming and dining, and are just looking for a relaxing vacation with maybe one or two excursions that include a pick-up and drop-off at the hotel…

TIP: I strongly recommend that you look at the map and the location of the places that you want to visit before deciding where to stay in Dubai. Also, consider how you will travel around.

For example, staying within walking distance of a metro station might save you a lot of time and money on commuting if you plan to do lots of sightseeing. Whereas staying in a nice walkable area with lots of shops and restaurants will be ideal if you like to go out at night.

Here are two of the very best areas to stay in Dubai:

• Dubai Downtown (the area around Dubai Mall – Burj Khalifa) is very central and is perfect for those who want to do a lot of sightseeing, but also for shopping and dining. Sofitel Dubai Downtown is a great choice in this area, close to Dubai Mall and just near a metro station. Remember, however, that this is the heart of the city, so very busy and far from the sea.
• Dubai Marina in the south of the city is another popular area to stay in Dubai. It’s a great choice for those who are looking for a more relaxing vacation, boat trips, water parks, dining, shopping, etc. The beach is not too far from here, however, it will take at least 45-60 minutes to reach the city center. Millennium Place is a very popular hotel not too far from the main Marina area and close to the metro. On a somewhat higher budget, JW Marriott Hotel Marina is a wonderful choice if you want to be in the heart of the Marina.

TIP: On our most recent visit to Dubai, we stayed at Rove La Mer Beach Hotel . It’s close to the downtown area, so quite convenient for sightseeing, but also with direct access to a private beach – the best of both worlds. We loved this hip modern hotel, also because it’s much smaller and more intimate – a kind of place where you don’t have to worry about losing your kids at breakfast. It also offers great price/quality for Dubai. The only downside is that the area around the hotel is still developing with lots of construction going on, but it will only get more attractive in the future.

9. Beware of Tourism Taxes

Hotel stays (including hotel apartments, guesthouses, holiday homes, etc.) in the United Arab Emirates are taxed with various fees, surcharges, and taxes. These amounts might vary depending on the hotel, but it’s not abnormal that these taxes add over 20-25% to your room rate.

For example, our recent hotel invoice in Dubai showed a 10% service charge, 7% municipality fees, 5 % VAT, and an additional 10 AED (+-$3) Tourism Dirham Fee per night.

Altogether, we paid about 24,4% on top of the official room rate. The good thing is that we knew in advance how much we had to pay. Otherwise, this could be a very unpleasant surprise…

So when looking for accommodation in Dubai and comparing prices, make sure that you are actually comparing the same thing!

Many hotel websites show prices without (some/any) taxes, so you may think that booking directly with them is cheaper. Often, it’s not the case at all!

TIP: We always use Booking.com for our accommodation bookings, also in Dubai. With them, you see the total price, including all fees and taxes, so you know exactly how much you will spend. (Depending on booking conditions, you may have to prepay for the stay in advance whereas the taxes are charged separately when you arrive at the hotel, but the total amount you see when making a reservation is correct).

10. Use Public Transport & Local Taxis

Dubai’s public transport system is efficient and inexpensive. Depending on where you are staying and traveling to, it might be very convenient to use the Dubai Metro, Tram, Monorail, or even local buses.

However, this depends on the exact trip you are planning to make and also on the size of your group. Sometimes, public transport is the best way to get around the city quickly and affordably. But there are also many situations when it’s a real hassle and doesn’t make your trip faster or much cheaper.

In those cases, you will be glad to know that taxis are rather affordable in Dubai . The most expensive taxi ride we recently took in Dubai was 25 kilometers, it took over 50 minutes, and it cost us 76 AED (+-$21).

However, be careful that you only use official taxis! Because e.g. Uber is often quite a lot more expensive. Not even to mention that they sometimes charge twice the price during peak times of increased demand. We learned this the hard way, after taking a few overpriced Uber rides…

Also, unlike in many other countries where we use Uber all the time, in Dubai, you never really know how much you will pay until the end of the ride. The price you see in the beginning is usually just an approximate indication.

TIP: Install Careem app on your smartphone and use it to request ‘Hala Taxi’. That’s the best way to get an official taxi in Dubai. If you request ‘Rides’, it works similar as Uber and is more expensive. We learned this from a local taxi driver after a few very unpleasant experiences with Uber and private drivers randomly offering their services at the main tourist spots, and it saved us a fortune.

To give you an idea, we were quoted 120 AED ($33) by Uber and 150 AED ($40) by random ‘kind strangers’ for a ride that in the end cost us 22 AED ($6) by official taxi. When it comes to busy times and popular tourist hotspots, getting a taxi ride in Dubai can feel like navigating the Wild West…

LEARN MORE: Tourist Guide to Dubai Public Transport

11. Start Your Days Early

One of the best ways to make the most out of your trip to Dubai is to start your days early.

There’s much less traffic in the morning, so you can get everywhere much quicker. But the main advantage is that there are hardly any other people, even at the most popular attractions. In addition – if you are visiting Dubai in the warmest months – getting up early is the best way to avoid the biggest heat.

Good to know: Be sure to check opening times of the places you want to visit. While some attractions don’t open until noon, many others are open from 9-10 AM. There are also places – like e.g. Burj Khalifa – that you can visit at 7 AM, and on some days even earlier if you like…

For example, we recently went to the Aquaventure Water Park at Atlantis around opening time. There were no lines at the entrance and we could also do many popular slides without any wait. A few hours later, people were queuing for 45-60 minutes at the same rides…

In addition, the taxi ride to get there in the morning took us just 22 minutes. That same ride to get back to our hotel in the evening was over 50 minutes, not counting more than 10 minutes for a taxi to arrive… So yes, it really pays to explore Dubai in the morning!

READ ALSO: Tips & Tricks for Visiting Atlantis Aquaventure

12. Stay Connected

While pretty much all public places and tourist attractions in Dubai offer free Wi-Fi, we highly recommend getting a local SIM card for your visit to UAE. There are so many situations when it’s just much easier to stay connected. For example, if you need to book a taxi ride, or book some tickets on the go, etc.

Depending on your data plan, roaming can cost a fortune in Dubai. My provider sent me an sms saying that using data in UAE will cost me 15 euros per megabyte (ouch! and no, thank you!). So the first thing I did after landing in Dubai was disconnect roaming.

There are several ways to approach this:

• Pocket Wi-Fi. One of the easiest ways to stay connected on the go is by renting a pocket WiFi at Dubai airport . This is a very convenient option if you don’t want to change anything on your phone. It’s also convenient if you are traveling with a family/friends since you can connect up to 10 devices to it.
• Local SIM card. Alternatively, you can opt opt for a physical SIM card, which is also available at the airport . With this option, you will need to place this card into your phone. If you want to keep your ‘own’ phone number working as well, see if your phone has a dual SIM option – then you can use both. Otherwise, you may want to bring an old phone to use with this local card.
• eSIM. There are many providers available (just search online), but what’s included and the prices vary a lot. Depending on which one you choose and also on your device, this can be a very easy and simple process, but it’s also not very straightforward if you have never done it before. Also, not all phones allow eSIM – so be sure to double-check if your smartphone has this capability.

13. Respect Local Culture

While Dubai is a very cosmopolitan city, it’s also a place with different cultural norms and traditions. Overall, UAE is very ‘Western’ and Dubai in particular is very laid back and relaxed. With over 200 nationalities living in Dubai, it’s a true melting pot of different cultures. Still, remember that you are a visitor here, and be respectful.

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or public places. Also, avoid public displays of affection, as these can be considered disrespectful.

If you’re visiting during Ramadan, be mindful of local customs and traditions. Keep in mind that many traditional restaurants and cafes will be closed during the day but will come to life after sunset. If you are visiting during Ramadan and are planning sightseeing during the day or a day trip to e.g. Abu Dhabi, it’s advisable to pack your own lunch.

One of the most common questions we get is what to wear when traveling to Dubai. Well, you will see people wearing all kinds of clothing – from burkas that cover the entire body to revealing summer clothes that hardly cover much at all. However, while a lot is tolerated, it’s not always appreciated.

So when in doubt, remember that it’s always safer to cover your knees and shoulders. See-through clothing is also not the best idea, unless on a beach.

TIP: Wear loose light clothes – not as much for religious or cultural reasons, but also because of the heat. Long skirts/dresses or wide summer pants will be much more comfortable than tight clothes.

LEARN MORE: What to Wear in Dubai

14. Use Credit Cards

The official currency in Dubai is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED) and all the prices are displayed in this currency. All regular businesses accept cash and electronic means of payment, such as credit cards or smartphone payments.

We haven’t encountered a single place in Dubai that wouldn’t accept a credit card. So if you want to make it easy and simple for yourself, you don’t even need to exchange money and can simply use cards everywhere.

Important! Inform your bank about your visit so that they don’t block your cards for ‘suspicious activity’. And even then… Despite precautions, one of my cards got blocked by a credit card company after a random payment at a restaurant in one of the main malls in Dubai. We had to call the bank to get them to unblock it again and they say that this happens when ‘the systems’ suspect anything suspicious, despite us having notified our bank in advance…

If you want to leave a tip to someone or purchase something small, you may want to have some local currency at hand. In that case, you can get some cash from local ATMs which you will find in malls all over the city. I strongly encourage you to only use ATMs attached to local bank offices as some others might charge additional fees and/or give the worst exchange rates.

PRO TIP: When using ATMs to withdraw money or paying by card, you always get an option between local currency (AED) and your own currency. Always choose local currency (AED) – that way, your bank will do the exchange and you will always get a better rate than the one offered by ATMs or pay terminals.

Good to know: We heard it on quite a few occasions that money is king in Dubai and it doesn’t matter in which currency you want to pay – they will accept it. Indeed, this is the case at the markets (souks) and some smaller private businesses. On a recent trip to Dubai, I could use Euros at the souk. The sellers also told us that they accept credit cards (just make sure to haggle – see below).

15. Shop Smart

Dubai is a shopper’s paradise, but prices can vary a lot depending on where you shop. The prestigious locations like the Dubai Mall are home to some of the most expensive brands in the world and the prices here are usually very high. You will be able to find much better deals at the Dubai Outlet Mall, for example.

Also, if you go to various local markets (souks), be sure to shop around for better deals. Also, don’t forget to haggle – and not a little! Many sellers take advantage of tourists asking ridiculously high prices. Often, 3-4 times higher than what you should pay, and likely even more… Don’t be shy, offer the price that seems correct to you, and be prepared to walk away.

On a recent trip, I got intrigued by a perfume someone put on me while walking through the Dubai Spice Souk (this is common practice – people will (try to) put all kinds of stuff on you – from scarfs to perfumes etc.). So I asked how much it was. The prices depend on the size and the design of the bottle, they said, and so we settled on a medium-sized simple bottle and they told me it was 280 AED (+- 70 euros).

No way I would pay 70 euros for a tiny bottle of perfume at a market! And so we started the negotiations. In the end, I paid 20 euros in cash which – to me – felt like a correct price. The seller was telling me that this was way too low and he was only willing to do it because it was our last day in Dubai and my kids were cute… 😉

After that, I saw similar perfumes at Dubai Airport souvenir store and indeed, most of them were about 20-25 euros for about the same size I got. So don’t be afraid to negotiate and if you don’t feel comfortable with the price or the quality, simply walk away.

16. Explore Beyond the Glitz

While Dubai is best known for its skyscrapers and extravagant landmarks, don’t miss out on its cultural gems as well.

One of the best places to catch a glimpse of authentic culture is Old Dubai. Visit the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood, explore the spice and gold souks, and take a traditional abra ride along Dubai Creek. These experiences are also quite touristy, but they are also totally different from the main attractions in Dubai.

TIP: There are many excellent guided tours that visit Old Dubai . They all take you to the same area, do the traditional boat ride on Dubai Creek, and visit the same local markets. Most tours also include local coffee and dades, and some also food tasting. While you can just visit the area on your own, these tours are really affordable and give you a somewhat deeper insight and insider tips.

On our recent visit, we chose this walking/food tour . It started with some traditional food tasting at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to the old town, a boat ride, and ended at the gold and spice souks. A nice way to spend a few hours and get to know a different side of the city.

READ ALSO: Best Tours in Dubai

17. Avoid Weekends

If you think Dubai is busy on a weekday, try to imagine it on a weekend or on public holidays.

So if you can adjust your plans, avoid visiting the most popular attractions on weekends (Friday afternoon, Saturday, and Sunday).

If you are in Dubai for more than a few days, this is really not difficult to do. Visit the most popular places such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Global Village , Miracle Garden , or theme parks and water parks on weekdays.

On weekends, you can do more relaxing activities such as a sightseeing a yacht trip , a speedboat tour , spend time at the beach or by the pool, go parasailing or jetskiing , or take a desert tour – see below.

18. Experience the Desert

No trip to Dubai would be complete without experiencing its desert. Book a desert safari tour for an adrenaline-pumping ride over the dunes, followed by a traditional Bedouin-style dinner under the stars. It’s an unforgettable experience!

There are many desert tour options , but when you look closely, they are very similar in what they offer. Depending on the option you book, you have one main activity – usually, dune bashing in a jeep, quad, or camel ride. Afterward, you spend time in a desert camp where you can partake in all kinds of different experiences.

Some of these experiences include taking pictures with falcons and camels, sandboarding, various shows (traditional dance, belly dance, fire show), henna tattoos, etc. There is always lots of local food and it’s surprisingly good.

Our experience: We have done two desert tours in Dubai (on different trips) and they were both very similar and both excellent. The first time we went on this dune safari tour and on a recent trip, we opted for this highly-rated tour that includes a longer camel ride . In both cases, the second part of the tour was quite similar, the main difference was that the first tour included an exhilarating jeep ride through the dunes, and the second one – a 45-minute camel ride.

The whole family really enjoyed these tours and I couldn’t say which one is better. All I can tell you is that it’s a nice experience that will make your trip to Dubai even more memorable.

19. Don’t Forget Little Important Details

Here are some additional travel tips for Dubai:

• Bring a reusable water bottle. Dubai is so warm and dry that you will want to carry a bottle of water on you at all times. If you want to minimize plastic waste, you may want to bring your own reusable water bottle. Tap water is, in general, safe to drink. In addition, you will also see free water taps at some public areas, where you can refill your bottles.
• Pack a travel adapter. UAE uses  Type G  plugs, same as in the UK. However, we noticed that in most hotels you can also simply use European plugs and sometimes a simple USB cable. Still, we always pack a Type G adapter just to be safe.
• Bring a power bank to charge your phone on the go. Also, carry extra batteries for your camera.
• Know that you are not obliged to tip, but it’s also appreciated. Many people tip 10-15% at the restaurants or give a small tip to tour guides. If you like to tip, make sure you have some small bills of local currency.
• Bring a small crossbody bag for sightseeing. At some landmarks, you will be asked to leave bigger bags/backpacks in a locker. I like Hedgren crossbody bags for travel – they are light, sturdy, and very durable. The one I have is big enough to hold my camera, a power bank, documents, and even two water bottles, and I was never asked to use a locker. But pack the smallest backpack and you’ll often have to leave it behind…
• Don’t forget sun protection. A sun hat, sunscreen lotion, and sunglasses are a must when visiting Dubai!

So, these are some of the most useful travel tips for Dubai that you may want to know when traveling to this fascinating city for the first time. I hope that this helps you make the most of your visit.

Have a great trip!

Before you go, you may want to learn a bit more about Dubai with some surprising and interesting facts that will leave you fascinated and eager to explore more. Check it out: Fun & Interesting Facts About Dubai .

More tips for visiting Dubai:

• Budget:  How Expensive is Dubai
• Getting around:  Public Transport in Dubai
• With kids:  Best Things to Do in Dubai with Kids
• Fun to do:  Best Free & Cheap Things to Do in Dubai

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Friday 23rd of February 2024

Thanks for the article. It is very informative.

Glad to help. Have a great time in Dubai!

What to know for booking summer travel: Expert tips on airfare, destinations and more

Where to score flight deals during the prime summer travel season.

As the surge of summer travel draws near, the race to book a great vacation is on.

"If you're looking to travel domestically within the U.S., I think you should be booking now for summer travel," Clint Henderson, travel expert and managing editor of The Points Guy, told "GMA."

Earlier this month while reporting quarterly earnings, Delta Airlines CEO Ed Bastian projected "record advance bookings for the summer," telling CNBC that the carrier's credit card data and bookings show customers are highly interested in air travel.

An increase in budget airline routes that has created more competition, paired with an easing of the post-pandemic revenge travel surge, means travelers could see more deals.

"Overall prices are down from where they were when we just had that boom out of the pandemic," Henderson said. "So things are more reasonable."

Hopper, the flight booking app, has shown predicted fares for flights to Europe will be down 10% in price from the same time last year.

Google recently announced its top 20 trending summer destinations , which saw a few newcomers on the list and Paris rose to the No. 2 spot.

With the Olympics taking place there from July 26 through Aug. 11, an uptick in airfare and hotel pricing is expected during the Games.

But those willing to wait out the Olympics could find big savings for flights to the host nation.

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The Points Guy has featured deals from Atlanta, Dallas and Charlotte to Paris for as low as $515 from August through the fall.

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Don't forget to stay flexible with travel dates and keep midweek in mind for possibly lower fares.

There's also a time during the post-summer rush known as "shoulder season," between September and October, when fares could drop by as much as 30%.

When it comes to airfare purchase timing, the experts at The Points Guy have found prices dip eight to four weeks before the outbound flight, but after the one-month mark, prices will creep back up.

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On April 24, 2024, the MICHELIN Guide revealed the brand new list of One, Two, and Three Key hotels in the United States. In this first ever announcement of MICHELIN Keys in the United States, hotels in Atlanta, California, Chicago, Colorado, Florida, New York, and Washington DC were eligible for the distinction. This announcement of the most outstanding hotels in the country comes four years into a comprehensive refresh of our hotel selection. The MICHELIN Guide now includes over 5,000 hotels across the world, and not a single one is simply a room for the night. These are places that significantly add to your experience as a traveler, each vetted and judged excellent in five categories: architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, overall personality and character, value for the price, and a significant contribution to the guest experience in a particular setting. Which brings us back to the Keys. The culmination of countless hours of evaluation by our team of experts, the Key hotels below represent the highlights of our broader selection. Like the MICHELIN Stars for restaurants, the MICHELIN Keys are our most outstanding hotels. In total, the 2024 MICHELIN Guide hotel selection in the United States includes 11 Three Key hotels, 33 Two Key hotels, and 80 One Key hotels. Want to know more about the MICHELIN Key? Here’s everything you need to know . Or, head below to look at all the Keys.

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Highlights of the United States 2024 Key Hotel List

The Three Key Club in New York City

Expect: The highest luxury and impeccable design in Soho, Midtown, and the Financial District. Within the small club of Three Key hotels in the United States, four make their home in New York City. The Aman New York (Midtown) and Casa Cipriani (the Financial District) both make use of glamorous Beaux Arts buildings, the former a gold-crowned skyscraper in Midtown, the latter a glamorously restored ferry terminal at the very southern tip of Manhattan. Each is a refuge: an elegant, painstakingly designed escape from bustling city life. Meanwhile, two Firmdale hotels round out the list of Three Key hotels in New York City. Each is a quintessential example of the style and execution of the group’s co-owner and interior designer, Kit Kemp. Click the links here to explore the whirl of colors and collage of art that define the Crosby Street (Soho) and the Whitby Hotel (Midtown). Also read: Every Three Key Hotel in Paris

Jewels on the Coast: Up and Down California

Its sheer breadth of size and variety means it’s no surprise to announce California as the state with the most Key hotels in America. Here, we’ll point you towards coastal gems like the sublime architectural achievements in Big Sur ( Post Ranch Inn and Ventana ), beachside luxuries in Santa Monica (in particular: the newly opened Georgian ), and wine country favorites like SingleThread and the Madrona . What we love: how each one of these hotels opens the door to the very best of their locations — and gives us a look at each setting through fresh eyes.

Across America: The Golden Age of Celebrity

Our French Keys bask in the tradition of ancient vineyards, stone chateaus, and historic palaces. In the United States, we see a different tradition. In Los Angeles, places like Chateau Marmont , the Paramour Estate , Sunset Tower , and the Charlie date back to guests and residents as illustrious as Clark Gable and Marilyn Monroe. These are spaces that play ingeniously with their history, even as they forge ahead with cutting-edge amenities and experiences. But it’s not just California. New York’s historic artist hotspot, the Hotel Chelsea , once hosted Bob Dylan and Andy Warhol. Today, it decorates every space with art donated by former residents. Look too to the Chicago Athletic Association , a former member’s club for 20th century business magnates and athletes — now among the city’s most impressive and vibrant hotels. Also read: Hollywood Glamor at the First Key Hotels in Los Angeles

Click below to jump to each distinction: 

The three key hotels.

California (Beverly Hills):  The Beverly Hills Hotel, Dorchester Collection California (Big Sur): Post Ranch Inn California (Healdsburg): SingleThread Inn California (Los Angeles):  Hotel Bel-Air, Dorchester Collection California (Rutherford):  Auberge du Soleil, Auberge Resorts Collection California (St. Helena):  Meadowood Napa Valley California (Woodside):  Canyon Ranch Woodside New York (NYC):  Aman New York New York (NYC):  Casa Cipriani New York New York (NYC):  Crosby Street Hotel, Firmdale Hotels New York (NYC):  The Whitby Hotel, Firmdale Hotels

NEW: New York by The MICHELIN Guide – expert insights on where to dine, stay and explore

The two key hotels.

California (Beverly Hills): L'Ermitage Beverly Hills California (Beverly Hills): The Maybourne Beverly Hills California (Beverly Hills): The Peninsula Beverly Hills California (Carmel Valley): Bernardus Lodge & Spa California (Big Sur): Ventana Big Sur California (Guerneville): The Stavrand California (Healdsburg): Montage Healdsburg California (Healdsburg): The Madrona California (Laguna Beach): Montage Laguna Beach California (Montecito): Rosewood Miramar Beach California (Napa):  Milliken Creek Inn & Spa California (San Francisco):  Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero California (San Francisco):  The Battery California (Sausalito):  Cavallo Point Lodge California (West Hollywood): Chateau Marmont California (West Hollywood):  Pendry West Hollywood California (Yountville):  Bardessono California (Yountville):  North Block Washington D.C.:  Rosewood Washington, D.C.   Washington D.C.:  The Jefferson Florida (Miami):  Mayfair House Hotel & Garden Florida (Miami Beach):  Faena Hotel Miami Beach Florida (Miami Beach):  Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club Florida (Miami Beach):  The Setai Miami Beach   Illinois (Chicago): Pendry Chicago Illinois (Chicago):  The Langham, Chicago Illinois (Chicago):  The Peninsula Chicago New York (NYC): Hotel Barrière Fouquet's New York New York (NYC):  Nine Orchard  New York (NYC):  Pendry Manhattan West New York (NYC): The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel New York (NYC): The Fifth Avenue Hotel New York (NYC):  The Mark Hotel

The One Key Hotels

Washington D.C.

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No cuts: Proposed bill could change skipping the security line at the airport

California lawmakers have pushed forward a new piece of legislation aimed at changing the way third-party security screening companies like CLEAR help expedite customers through security at the airport .

An annual CLEAR membership that costs $189 allows travelers to skip the onerous security lines and instead verify their identity with biometric data at a kiosk, then get escorted by an agent to the front of the line bypassing TSA and TSA PreCheck.

But California Senate Bill 1372, which passed 8-4 in the Senate Transportation Committee on Tuesday, would ban CLEAR from expanding at California airports unless the security company utilizes its own dedicated security lines.

"This bill would prohibit a public airport that provides commercial services, beginning January 1, 2025, from entering into a new agreement that authorizes a private third-party vendor that provides expedited security screening to use the standard security lane or the Transportation Security Administration PreCheck security lane," a summary of the bill states .

CLEAR currently operates at nine airports in the Golden State.

The first-of-its-kind bill in the U.S. was introduced by Democratic state Sen. Josh Newman. It now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee, after which the bill could be brought for a vote before the full California Senate and state assembly before potentially making it to Gov. Gavin Newsom's desk.

In a press release on his official website, Newman described the proposed bill as offering "a more equitable experience at airport security checkpoints."

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"Despite what some have said, SB 1372 doesn't seek to terminate the CLEAR concierge service at California airports. Instead, it seeks to have CLEAR and other third-party screening services operate separate lines for subscribers, eliminating the friction and frustration created by the current system," Newman clarified in a written statement.

The bill has several opponents including the California Chamber Of Commerce and California Travel Association, and major airline carriers including Alaska Airlines, Delta Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue and Southwest Airlines.

The publicly traded expedited screening service provider, which was founded in 2010, is in use at more than 55 airports across the U.S., as well as sports stadiums and other large venues.

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Is Southwest about to end its free-for-all seating?

The company says it is ‘very seriously studying’ alternatives to its signature open-seating system.

Southwest Airlines fans know the drill: Check in to your flight exactly 24 hours in advance and secure your spot in line to board the plane. What seat you’ll end up in? That’s a mystery until the last minute.

A puzzle to some and an invigorating challenge to others, Southwest’s unique boarding process and one-class cabin are now under the microscope as the airline looks for ways to prop up its financial performance. In a call with investors Thursday, Southwest CEO Bob Jordan said executives are “very seriously studying” seating and the way passengers board the planes.

“It’s been several years since we last studied this in-depth, and customer preference and expectations change over time,” Jordan said. “We are also studying the operations and financial benefits of any potential change.”

Unlike most airlines, Southwest doesn’t have a premium section on its planes that commands higher fares. Where other carriers might charge extra for a cushy seat in the first few rows or an extra-legroom option near the front, Southwest customers can grab whatever seat is open. A spot near the front won’t come with any additional frills, however.

In a news release announcing quarterly earnings, a conference call discussing those results and an interview with CNBC , representatives said they were taking a deep look at customer preferences around seating and boarding. The current open-seating system was put in place when airliners were generally less full, the company said, noting that preferences change as planes fill up.

“There’s no decision, there’s nothing to report other than we are seriously looking at this,” Jordan said in response to a question about seating. “But early indications both for our customers and for Southwest look pretty darn interesting.”

While Southwest has contemplated the possibility of assigned seating for nearly two decades at least , the review has accelerated over the past six months, the CEO said. Jordan said the company will say more during an event for investors in September. The company has also recently said that it is preparing to add red-eye flights in the next couple of years.

Today, Southwest passengers can pay more to end up in a better seat, even without picking that seat in advance. Upgrades that provide priority boarding and early check-in give customers the first pick of spots. The airline makes “hundreds of millions of dollars” from those upgraded boarding options, executives said last year.

“They’re in kind of a pickle regarding revenue generation, so they’re looking at everything,” said Robert W. Mann, a consultant and former airline executive. “I think what they have seen is that when they’ve tweaked their existing cattle call … they find it to be very lucrative.”

He said that if the airline could deliver a more “pleasant” boarding process, or seat selection for a fee, it would probably be attractive to travelers.

“There’s nothing about their boarding process that they couldn’t improve,” Mann said.

Travel analyst Henry Harteveldt, president of Atmosphere Research Group , said he did research more than a decade ago that found a large number of people avoided Southwest because it did not offer extra-legroom seats, assigned seats or a premium business-class cabin. He said that the airline could make “an enormous amount of money” by adding assigned seating — and that travelers would probably welcome knowing what seat they would end up in.

“I think it could be an incredibly positive thing for the airline, but I recognize that Southwest has a more-than-50-year history of being egalitarian, of having open seating and being different from other airlines,” he said.

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Frequent flying: Airline status isn’t what it used to be, but at least there are some good movies and TV shows to watch in the air. And somewhere out there, experts are trying to make airline food taste good.