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When 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.
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
Excellent advice! I especially like the tips about being flexible, non-judgmental and expecting things to be different from home. I was reminded of a post I wrote about 10 types of obnoxious tourists. As long as travelers take your advice and don’t act like this, they’ll be fine: http://www.goabroad.com/blog/2012/04/23/obnoxious-tourists/
Great post. I’ve certainly come across a lot of those types of tourists before!! The Monolinguist just kills me!!
Great tips! I’d like to add:
– Always always trust your gut instinct. Learn to listen to it and follow it. If you feel safe – then do it. If you don’t, then for goodness sake, don’t! (As a new traveller, I once missed a Turkish wedding because I was too scared to accept an invitation to go; others that went had the time of their lives. On other occasions, I’m sure I’ve saved my skin by not accepting lifts to invitations to houses for dinner that felt dodgy).
– Travel on your own from time to time. It forces to you be become self reliant and interact with those you may not have otherwise
– If you really like it, buy it. It might blow the budget today but you will have a memento that will last for years (such as a carpet, handbag, painting / artwork, etc)
– If traveling on your own and feeling lonesome yet not meeting other fellow travellers that you gel with, change hostels.
– Remember, cheaper is not necessarily better. Sometimes it’s worth splashing out some extra money to eat in a really well regarded restaurant, or take a taxi and save yourself an hour of public transport.
– Be smart, be safe.
– Avoid restaurants that have pictures of the dishes on billboards out the front and look for places where locals are eating.
– Of course be happy and always respect that you are a visitor in someone else’s country.
Love your work!
GREAT tips Dianne. Completely agree with all of them/ Absolutely LOVE the trust your gut instincts one. A mantra for life. Your gut will never lie and the only time I’ve been in trouble is when I haven’t listened to it. It happened to us just this past weekend and it put ourselves in a pretty dire situation. Lucky we got out of it!
Thanks for linking to the post as well on your blog
Great tips for first time travelers and seasoned pros alike. I feel like the more you travel, the more you forget the simple things.
I’m especially keen to:
14. Have off the beaten path adventures and enjoy travelling to the touristy stuff too- just add a different angle to it.
15. Dont 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 traveller does.
It easy to forget the simple things. A couple of these were good reminders to myself as well/ Thanks for commenting Greg!
1- always carry a deck of cards. It is a great way to meet people in a hostel when you’re too tired to go out.
2- ask around the hostel kitchen if anyone wants to do a ‘group cookup’- share your ingredients and cook up a feast.
3- pack dental floss. Not only is it great for oral hygeine, but it is also emergency shoelaces, hair ties, clothes line (for smalls).
4-learn how to make friendship bands. Give them to people you meet who help you out or make an impression. Barter for something or sell them for extra cash.
Oh the deck of cards is a GREAT idea. So are all the rest actually. Cards always kept me entertained in so many different travel situations, and I met so many people as a result and had a lot of laughter! Even with local people, we played cards at the local bar/restaurant in Bukkittingi Sumatra till early hours every evening for a week with the staff there and other travellers- it was a hoot.
Excellent advice as always Caz 😀
I love this! Great advice as always. (I’m intrigued about the US immigration remark though.) Traveling is about so much more than just going to the places. Experiencing the culture, trying the street food, taking a few chances here and there, it’s all what makes traveling that much more rewarding.
Now that was a story Ali! I should write a post about that though. Short version. We handed our passports in to get a visa extension. A week before we were due to depart, we got the visa extension but no passport was returned and no one could tell us where they were. AFter days of tears and frustrations and stress about becoming illegal in the States which would ruin our chances of returning to live, we went to Oz embassy who cancelled and gave us emergency passports. It was a nightmare!
OMG that’s insane! I can’t believe they didn’t return your passports! So glad the Oz embassy was able to work it out for you. Yikes!
Great tips, and not just for new travellers. There are some tips there that we need to be reminded about before each and every trip overseas. This should be a Travellers Manifesto!
I like that idea! If only I knew how to create a pinterest image out of it. 🙂
When you’ve been traveling for a while, you’re aware of most , if not all, of these tips (which is probably why you called them tips for first time travelers), but you tend to forget some of them. Thanks for the reminder–it’s definitely something I need every now and then.
No worries Daniel! I think a refresher for everyone is important. It was fun thinking of them to put in the list and was a good reminder for me too
An additional tip for people thinking about travelling for the first time is that sometimes the hardest decision is the one to actually travel. Travelling is all about deciding to go and then following through.
I always know that I am serious when I create a rough outline of my planned trip and start saving the money to reach my travel goal.
Very useful tips not only for first-time travellers but also for those who are always on the go!
Lovely round up of tips there Caz! This one is short yet sweet:
22. Be flexible, it is the best way to adapt.
I really need to start doing Yoga 😉
Yoga is a great place to start Tom!! 🙂
If you like sports, try to take in a local match…it’s a great way to connect with the people of your destination.
GREAT tip Deej! We always love to watch sport and local matches are good fun
I have to add that the advice to bargain depends on where you go. I know it’s expected in many countries, but if you walked into a store in Chile and started bargaining, people would think you were insane just as they would if you tried to bargain somewhere like the US. But #26 I wholeheartedly agree with!
True True! But there are some instances in countries like this where you can use your bartering experience to negotiate better deals!
It always surprises me how many people yell when someone doesn’t understand. Great tips. 🙂
Be open to a change in your travel plans. Some of the best experiences are the ones you don’t plan.
Travelling in fewer places for longer is a great tip. From our perspective when departing Australia it takes so darn long to get anywhere by plane that we always want to cram in as much as we can when we’re away.
Our plan next time is to travel slowly, as they say and take time to really take everything in. Great article!
infinite likes…..
I just love to make travels and these tips will certainly help me a lot. I will remember all of your tips and thank you very much for this wonderful post. 🙂
Completely agree with this list! Especially number 18! Down with the Naysayers!!! Where are here (where ever here is) and we are doing it our way!
Come to think of it, I think this list is also very useful for people staying where they are. 😀
And I would supplement number 40 with “learn how use water instead of toilet paper”. Squatting was never a problem for me, but using the bum gun… 0_0
No, travel insurance isn’t sexy but I wouldn’t go anywhere without it! I get a bit disappointed when I hear of even experienced travellers going without it and then discovering that they wish they had it.
But my favourite tip is NEVER complain that people in a country your visiting don’t speak English! So true.
It is amazing how many people complain about the English thing! Ridiculous!
I agree about the English language complaints. Decades ago while I was in Europe, I was lost looking at a map when a German lady asked if she could help. I happily said yes, please. She apologized for her English (which was great BTW), and I told her that I should apologize for not learning more of her language and thanked her profusely for her help! After all, I was in her country and did not expect her to speak English! We had a delightful conversation and she expressed how nice I was for an American. Sad that Americans have a bad reputation overseas!
What a wonderful experience Virginia. Thank you for sharing! It is sad Americans have a bad reputation overseas as I don’t find that here in the country at all.
Very useful tips not only for first-time travelers but also for those who are always on the go!
Do you like traveling? You should try to go to Indonesia. Many places interesting choices there.
LOVE Indoensia. I was first there in 97 and am dying to go back
If you are travelling as a couple it’s always a good idea to split up your clothing in both suitcases. In the event of one piece of luggage being misplaced, you’ll both have clothing to last you a few days until it’s recovered.
Great tip Rosemary! Thanks for sharing
Great tips if you are travelling lone. I agree with travel insurance, its a must thing to have. Funny you say about using the squat toilet, it comes handy if you learn how to use it.
Great travel tips guys! I especially agree with this one “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”. I got robbed once but in the end it all worked out.
Yep. The old “Don’t cry over spilt milk” saying here rings so much truth. Don’t let it disturb the rest of your amazing adventures.
I definitely agree with #40- Learn how to use a squat toilet. 🙂 Practice keeping your balance in private…. eventually you can do it with your pack on! I don’t think you’d want to put your bag on the ground near a squatty potty. 😛
Love the tips 🙂 What strike me most is No. 15.
World is definitely large to cover everything in one day. Even back in home, there’s always something new & interesting to see each day and yet to be discovered.
Do you mind if I translated some of your tips (to my local language) & link back to this post? Thanks!
That is fine Waida. But you can only take a selection from the passage. It can’t be the whole piece. Thank you for asking!
I read the title “43 travel tips for first time-travellers”,
not “43 travel tips for first-time travellers”
I guess I read too much science-fiction.
😉
Funny!! Some times you do feel like you are travelling through time though
Great tips! I think some of the comments have great tips too, maybe you should update the post in a few months with the best ones.
Great idea! Thank you
Hi Caz,
Enjoyed reading the tips – they are very helpful.
A question – do you have any suggestions on taking people pictures and publishing them in blogs or social media ( of coursse, with proper respect to the individuals)..we just returned from a two week travels in China..in areas, where yo do not know the language, your communication is via smiles, hand gestures and nods..and in crowded places or when you are traveling by bus , etc..you do not even have time for that..but some of the captures of people at work, kids enjoying food items or at play are very interesting..any of your own rules while you post them..Many thanks..
Jay Bhandary…fellow traveller
There aren’t any rules I guess as such. This topic could actually be explored more by travellers and people in the community as I don’t really know the answer. I think as a general guideline always ask the person if you can take their picture and then mention you have an online publication you may put it on and if it is okay. I know with the language barriers we can’t always do this, so ask in the best way you know how with charades!!! IT might be a good idea before you go to a country, to get those questions written on a piece of paper in the native language to cover yourself.
Caz,
Thank you…. good suggestions. Have a great time in Thailand…
JB
Thank you JB! So far so good.
These are really tremendous tips. I particularly like the last tip. It’s so hard to go back to reality after a vacation.
” 8. NEVER complain that the people of the country you are visiting do not speak English. Remember where you are.”
I love this quote and I always remember this thing when I travel
Thank you! It is a good one.
Wow really nice tips for beginner
Great tips. First one is the best!
Lots of good tips here. I love the ones that talk about being open-minded and respecting the country. I know many times, when people begin to travel, they except it to be like their own country – not true! Embrace those differences! =)
You can never have too much insurance! I’ve had a few “accidents” along the way and thankfully they have all been covered. You’re right in saying it isn’t sexy, but necessities like that usually aren’t. 🙂
Excellent tips for first timers! I will pass this along!
Don’t always listen to other people’s recommendations! I have been told before to not bother going to a certain place but after exploring there, I have loved them!
Totally agree! We have had this happen lots of times and the reverse too!
This is a great list of travel tips. Very useful advices. We like it.
WONDERFUL web page & tips – THANK YOU so very much! Some are just common since, but we so often need to be REMINDED of just such logical protocol.
I wholeheartedly agree with your #5. Learn the basics of the local language. Use them often. It is the best way to show respect, break down barriers and start conversations.
I had that forefront in mind when I visited Germany (I don’t speak German, but learned to say “Please, thank you, how much? Excuse me & I’m sorry” expecting to use them often. I took a side trip to France (I do speak French, yay!) and was eager to get to use the language. When I stopped in the Post Office to mail some post cards, I asked for the stamps in French, but stumbled on the word for “stamps”. The clerk just rolled his eyes at me and said, “Oh, just speak English!” most disgustedly. LOL – he was the rudest person I met the whole trip; but later that evening, when I got lost walking back to the train station, a lovely elderly woman walking her dog (and who did not speak English) graciously showed me the way. She was by far the kindest person I met on the whole trip! 🙂
Great stories Judith! Thank you for sharing. Unfortunately rude people in any country is something you can’t avoid. What a shame he had that attitude towards the respect you were showing. I love the kindness of strangers you meet when travelling. The Universal language
These tips are just not only make your travel more enjoyable but also taught a good lesson to live a life the way you want. There is no point of regretting things later which you haven’t done in your life.
How many times have you been to India ? i think these tips came from your visit to India..
Actually we have not been yet!! But, it sounds like we will be prepared when we do 🙂
Love these tips! Everyone can learn from these, especially the ones about respecting local cultures and traditions.
Yes! It’s amazing how many people still don’t think about respecting and learning from the local people
Let me just add one thing which many many people overlook and subsequently often have grief over … Always read the terms and conditions when purchasing travel services especially air tickets, it is important info.
Great tip Garry! This can sure lead to headaches
Pretty nice post you’ve got there.Allthoug.h i have to say i am a bit skeptical about the eat food from the street.I have bad memories.
Oh no try it again! I’m sure you’ll have a much better experience
Nice Sharing and very useful tips. I have learned many things today, i have visited your blog first time. I give it a big thumbs up. Traveling provides an education in life that you cannot obtain in any other way.
Loving these tips guys, especially the ones about being respectful of the local culture, and language. Nothing bugs me more than when I see disrespectful travellers, or people moaning about English not being spoken in South Korea/Poland/Turkey/wherever.
Also, I’m interested to hear where that shot of rice wine tip comes from…that’s too specific for there not to be a story behind it 😉
Pet Hate Tom!! I find it so bizarre that people even find it annoying that local people don’t speak English. How could you be that ignorant?
Yes the rice wine shot came at the end of a hot hike through the local rice fields near Muang Ngoi in Laos. We did not want to upset the spirits so had to oblige the local chief’s request to shoot it down and then join him for lunch and a chat! They rarely had white people pass on through. Great experience.
I always think the smile is number 1 must for first time travellers.
In any situation smile and always find the funny side and you’ll get through it.
Great List!
Totally agree!! You can always find something to smile about even if it is simple how ridiculously absurd your situation is.
It’s probably way more interesting and enjoyable than being stuck in a cubicle. At least your creating a story to tell.
When I read the title of the article I thought the tips were going to be more serious and detailed but these tips were very refreshing and fun! Love it!
We love refreshing and fun! Thank you Boyde
It’s so inspiring, caz.and These are amazing thoughts. And it’s true that we need to relax while we travel.Getting after it and seeing the world is truly living…
Cheers!
must-read for first time travelers! great advise esp. #35 travel for longer in fewer places.
One of our favourites!
Thanks for the great advice and tips!
I would like add
Travel light! Nothing worse than hauling around clothes that you never end up using.
Buy a pair of the most comfortable walking shoes you can afford, European cobblestone streets can be a killer on your soles after walking around for hours.
Travel in the season which matches what you mainly want to see and do.
I have to say though when you get home you will only remember and focus on the positive experiences….
GREAT tips! The shoes is a great one. I still have a pair of hiking shoes I brought 7 years ago in China. They are a great brand and so comfortable. I’ve walked everywhere in them and they still look brand new. It was so worth spending the extra money.
All great points; although I have to say that point 40 is the most important though – lol! That was the biggest adjustment that I had to make and a real shock to the system. If anything, it makes you appreciate home more 🙂
It sure does! Although it is the healthiest way to do your business!
All such great tips. I think number 22 has helped me the most during my travels.
Great list. 3 is one of my favourites except when it comes to 5 (I’m hopeless, no matter how hard I try!)
Excellent tips – I especially like the tip of “travel for longer in fewer places” – too many people make the mistake of cramming a whole heap of places to visit in a very short space of time, and then don’t see much of those places at all. Much better to travel slowly, and travel extensively.
Great post! I’d repost this on my FB fan page too, people should know this when traveling.
This list is fantastic. I always love finding great travel tips. My favorite tip is number 38. I think it is super important to not plan each second of the day while on vacation.
Oh no you have to be super flexible. You’ll have such a better time if you do
I had to double check what I wrote. I was saying I agree with you! I love NOT planning each second of my vacation. I would have missed out on a lot of great things had I not been flexible 🙂
Hi there,
Great list, thanks. I wanted to add one more that you left out: take some self-defense classes, whether male or female. I think it’s really important to have this kind of training since it will help you have that confidence in knowing you can protect yourself should anything unexpected happen while traveling.
Alana
These are useful advise and must be applicable not only for first timers but for all types of traveler.
Absolutely Richard! Thanks for taking the time to stop by and share!
#19 is so true! I ate so much street food in Cambodia that I got a little scared. I “played it safe” the last night by eating in a nice restaurant…and got sick!
#16 is really hard to remember, but probably the most important thing to do.
Thanks so much for sharing the useful tips… Really great work!!!!
Very useful tips to take care in travel. It will help for a unexperience travller. Thanks for sharing your experience. Excellent Post
Very nice job . These things will help me in my traveling and transportation.. It really and simply great . Enjoy the Thailand beaches with motor yacht charter from Phuket Charter Boat visit Phuket Yachts and Charter
LOL! I read the title like this:
43 travel tips for first “time travellers”
I want to travel through time so badly. 😛
Excellent article by the way. I love your blog!
Cheers,
Liv
That is very funny Liv. I really hope one day I figure out that secret and can write a post about it 🙂
Really amazing tips I love this post.
Great experience.
Wonderful Post !
Never travel without an open mind. Never live without an open mind, it is the greatest gift for growth you can ever give to yourself and others.
I loved this post – especially #13. Leave a good impression of your culture on the countries you are visiting.
Great list – thanks for sharing it
I agree where you have mentioned about be friend with the local people. It helps a lot as of my experience. The tips are nice for me.
Great tips! Do your homework before setting out on your travels, and find out about whether or not you need to get immunized against certain diseases beforehand. And remember immunization doesn’t mean you don’t have to be concerned about selection and handling of food and water.
Good stuff to know. I just got my passport and I’m starting to read more blogs to get some ideas of what to expect at the end of the year when I head overseas.
Great travel tips with funny notes there. Thanks for sharing
“17. Start travelling when you are young”
I think, it’s a little late for me… 🙂
No never too late! You’re still 17 on the inside right?
This is good advice. In South Africa, it is customary to say hello first before asking for directions. It helps if you know how to say hello in Zulu or even Tswana.
For me those first 3 tips are the most important. If travelling doesn’t feel like one big stressful adreneline rush… then you’re probably not having enough fun 🙂
I never stay still, never stop looking for something never new to see or do and never feel like I’ve done enough travelling to be happy!
Great to hear that this morning Andrew! I’m going through the stressful adrenalin rush at the moment in our lead up to our big Aussie road trip. Now I can relax and know it means I’m having fun and on the right track! Thanks for the boost
44. Don’t be afraid to make the first step;
45. Don’t forget to get to know the country in which you are going to trave;
46. Don’t forget your photo camera 🙂
Great tips Alex! Thanks for sharing
So many excellent tips! Traveling is definitely about opening yourself up to life and experiencing what the world has to offer.
10. Do not over bargain. 50 cents is nothing to you, but may mean a days worth of meals to the person you are haggling with.
This is my favorite, many people dont think about how arogant they sometimes act.
can’t help appreciating the highlighted phrases, because these really are great tips. nice touch!
Excellent list of tips. A very useful resource for any traveller!
#43 is by far the best advice! I never realized that reverse culture shock was a thing until I got home two summers ago for Europe. Don’t be upset if you cry a little or feel lost when you get home, it’s still hard sometimes!
Excellent post! Just what i need! Especially #1 “Don’t expect things to be like they are at home”…Should always always keep that in mind. 🙂
Thanks for the great tips! These are things people should always keep in mind but often overlook. Will be putting many of them into place when I begin my perpetual travels in a couple months, rather nervous and very excited. Might have to bookmark this one.
Great tips but # 40 just isn’t going to happen. #17 hope you have parents that like to travel I was in diapers when I started traveling. #19 I was eating Tacos in TJ at 14 TJ is on the border of the US and Mexico. Never have I gotten sick off street food Bangkok has to be one of the best places for street food you can eat for about 5.00 a day. #35 for sure don’t keep moving from place to place stop to see where you are. I will add # 44 find a friend that works for a major US airline that’s older with at least 40 or more years flying and see if they will add you to there pass rider list.There’s 1000’s that have benfits for free flying and discounts on hotels that have no one that uses them and they are happy too add you.
As I read down your list, I was secretly trying to find something that you missed, but you were spot on. Numbers 1 is the most important. It’s amazing to me how many people travel away from home and expect everything to be as what they are used to at home. Once a person can get past this; then they truly become a traveler.
Thanks guys, great tips, since we have started our journey recently, is nice to read them 🙂
couple of them they actually have appeared spontaneously, like using sign l’ge, smiling at people, being always polite… some of them worth to be aware of, like the one with a village chef 🙂
Take care and many happy tips to you all 🙂
Hello,
Great tips. Really! its fantastic and good tips.
32. Celebrate local customs and festivals with the local culture in their traditional manners.
33. Learn about other religions, 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 will end up lost when the map app crashes.
Thanks for share…
I’ll take it from the expert travelers. I’m in awe of everything I read from your post. These are the things that every traveler should keep in mind. Thank you for pointing these out and I hope you still share more of the tips and ideas about traveling.
Thanks, very useful Blog.
Our company (hipfig.com) just started with video guides for first time International traveler. Right now, there is ONE travel video series with 6 videos for the first time International traveler…. from baggage packing tips, departure process, layover to arrival process.
Idea is to make First time International travel easier for First time traveler.
I am from the United Kingdom, travelling alone in Thailand for the first time during that time. I have a lot of experience travelling in Europe, but not in Thailand. So Thank you for sharing such a great and helpful tips about Thailand with me.
I’m 20 years old and thinking of places to travel out of country for the first time. Anyone have any place in mind that would be cheap and good for a first time traveler?
South East Asia is a good start!
Just bought my passport! I’m excited, but nervous!
Yay!! Enjoy
#35. Couldn’t agree more. For so many people, travelling is ticking a check list
This is a wonderful list of important things for travelers to do. I especially love the Eat the Street Food one. If you are going to experience a new place, do it all while you have the chance. Thanks!
Hi! I am not finding the info I need so maybe u can help me 🙁 I am a first Time traveler and I am a Canadian citizen and just got my passport, we are leaving April 10th and really need some help I am kind of nervy leaving Canadian soil. I am wondering do I need to bring any other form of id with me with my passport? and what can I expect when I am coming home? really need some guidance
thank u Kim
Beautiful. This should be given to every young adult out on their first trip abroad (which should be mandatory).
Awesome tips! At first I am very nervous of going solo on my trip abroad but that change a lot today. I now enjoy getting lost on foreign cities and meeting wonderful people along the way. I also enjoyed trying different, interesting and sometimes weird dishes!
Hey, great piece! It was one of the inspirations for the travel guide I did specifically for people going abroad for the first time! We ended up writing this http://www.tourradar.com/blog/ultimate-travel-guide/ – Thanks for the inspiration! 🙂
Great tips. I loved it 🙂
Great post !!!!!!!!
Your comment:pls kindly help me out am a first timer,i want to take a trip to cyprus any moment from next week pls what is the trip advice from nigeria
1. Don’t expect things to be like they are at home.- -> So true!
Like tip 32 when possible. As a first time solo traveller recently I’d add that you need to manage expectations and take it all on with a sense of humour! Bad experiences are part and parcel to long trips but they’re not to be dwelled on 🙂
Well done. Very useful tips for first time travelers. I like #32 and #33 the most.
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I believe in speaking with the local people! As they are the one that would bring you to hidden gems!
Is taking pictures of beaches & sea with lot of people either sitting or walking is a crime in U S?
Hope I can start my first solo traveling as soon as possible. Thanks for the tips!
Thanks for sharing, Its fantastic resources for first time travelers. I love this post Especially #11. Respect local customs. It is not about your way, you are the visitor.
Ecellent post. Really good tips for newbie travellers! I especially liked #10, #19, #30
Each one in the list is recommendable tips, Some of them are basic rules and manners to follow visiting tourist locations, different cultures, different people. I am also going to make a list of travel rules to follow in each country soon. Thank you for writing this wonderful post CAZ, i already bookmarked and shared the must learn travel tips for first time travelers.
Lovely and Effective post for essential tips in your first time travellers. We’re sharing on our facebook page!
Yes you are right. Whenever any first time travels in an unknown place, then it comes with a lot of trouble. But i read your blog and i learn the how solve the travelling problems. It is very supportive and useful post. I would like to visit the post once more its valuable content. Thanks a lot for this beauty Enjoying article with me. I appreciate it very much!