Being in a new country can be quite daunting. From not knowing the language to trying to find your way in a new area, the idea of traveling abroad might seem like too much to handle. Here are some tips to make your journey more manageable:
Get necessary documents well in advance
If you plan on traveling anywhere outside of the U.S., you will need a passport. Some countries may even require you to get a visa as well. The process of getting a passport can take weeks or even months, depending on where you live. That’s why it’s vital you plan as far ahead in advance as possible to get yours.
Many post offices provide this service and will let you know what you need to start the process. The U.S. Department of State’s website lays out various timelines for getting a passport, from emergency and urgent travel to expedited and routine. Keep in mind, you will have to pay more for an expedited passport.
In addition to needing your passport at the airport, you may also need it when you check into your hotel. However, once you’ve arrived, keep your passport in a secure location (like a locked safe in your hotel room) as you enjoy your vacation. Do not carry it with you throughout your stay, as pickpockets could easily swipe your main form of identification.
Figure out how you’ll pay for things
Thanks to modern technology, you may not need to carry much cash with you when traveling abroad. But you will want to contact your bank to let them know you will be using your credit or debit card overseas. This will prevent your card from getting declined via a security alert.
One thing to remember is some locales may charge you to use your card for payment, so it’s still a good idea to have some cash on you. Many banks allow you to withdraw different types of currency directly from them, but you will want to do so well in advance in case there are any delays. You’ll also want to see what the exchange rate is in the country you plan on visiting so you can budget properly.
Learn about cultural norms
While you may know how people interact here on American soil, things can be quite different in other countries. For example, it is not common for customers to tip their waiters in some countries; it could be seen as an insult if you were to do so. The same goes for certain hand signals or gestures. Do some research and get insights from residents of the country as well as those who have traveled there before. If you’re going to a place where people don’t speak English, consider learning a few key words and phrases like “thank you,” “please,” and “where is the bathroom?” Thankfully, there are many mobile apps and websites that allow you to quickly input a phrase to translate.
Make a loose itinerary
Even if you’re a “go with the flow” type of person, you may want to make a loose itinerary of things to see and do. Check out travel websites for ideas on the most interesting places to visit. Or consider signing up for tours of lesser known locales that give you a true glimpse of the country’s history. No matter what you do, always be safe when traveling, especially if you’re doing so alone. Doing a simple bit of research could be the difference between the trip of a lifetime and a terrible experience.
Update your phone plan
Contact your mobile provider to inform them you’ll be heading out of the country. You will probably have to sign up for a special plan that allows you to use your phone for calls and to have internet access while traveling. This will be another item to add to your budget, as most providers offer various levels of travel access at different prices.
With these helpful tips for traveling abroad for the first time, you should be well on your way to enjoying a fruitful, cultural endeavor!