5 Tips For Your Next Trip Abroad
Traveling is by far one of my favorite hobbies, and it’s how I’ve madeÂ
some of my favorite memories.
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Here are some ways to help reduce the stress of traveling abroad.
1. Make An Itinerary
Research your destination and create a plan before you go.
Before you hop on that flight, take some time to get to know the place you are visiting. Ask yourself, what are some things I can’t miss when I visit? Or what’s the best time of day to go see an attraction? You will need to plan out what you want to see each day, and how much time you will need to explore that area. I like to write out each attraction, where it is, how long I will spend there, and what time I will go at. Creating a list like this makes it easier to know what I’m doing once I get there.
Some valuable resources to find things to do are travel blogs, Instagram, and TikTok. I actually have been using TikTok a lot more recently to research destinations and find things to do there. It is super quick and easy to watch a 30 second video describing things to see and where they are.
2. Know What To Bring
Make a packing list of everything you will need for your trip. Start your list a few days in advance so that if you forget anything, you can add it before you even start packing. This way, you won’t realize you forgot something when you’re already on the plane. Make sure you have all of the documents needed to go through customs when entering the country. This includes your passport, immigration control forms, visa (if necessary) and any other country specific documents.Â
When it comes to clothing, you may want to do some more research on what the whether is like. Pack accordingly to both the weather and the types of activities you will be doing. I have found that rolling my clothes tightly allows me to fit more than if I fold it. It helps to keep your things as compact as possible to limit the amount of bags you have to bring.
3. Research Transportation & Accommodation
I recommend using public transportation as much as possible in foreign countries, it’s just so much easier and it’s cheap. The systems are usually very easy to figure out, and you can download a map of the system so you always have it with you.
4. Book ahead of time
In addition to making an itinerary and packing, you should also make sure that all of your bookings are in place before you leave. Make sure you have a flight and a hotel for the extent of your stay so you don’t go looking around the city for one when you get there. Sites like Expedia make it very easy to book hotels, flights, and rental cars.Â
Research the best areas to stay in. See what hotels are close to the attractions you want to see, and make sure it is in a safe area. Every city has its bad parts, so make sure you don’t book hotels in those areas.
If there are popular places you want to see, buy tickets online ahead of time if possible to ensure you get a spot! It would be frustrating to get to a spot and realize there’s a he line or you can’t even get in at all.
5. Prioritize your safety
Be aware of your surroundings at all times!
As a tourist in another country, you are very susceptible to pickpockets. It is very common for this to happen on trains or subways, so make sure you always have your bag zipped up and close to you. Do not wear flashy accessories that could get stolen easily.
You should also always tell a friend or family member where you are and where you are planning to go so in case of emergency, they have an idea where you are.
Keep your phone charged, and bring a portable charger. You need your phone for contact and directions, it can be very difficult to navigate or be reached without it.
Traveling should be fun and stress free! Put in the time beforehand to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Some people like to make elaborate itineraries to follow, and some people like to just have a simple outline. Whatever your preference is, you should definitely do some planning and research ahead of time so you can make the most of your time abroad. Travel safe!
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