Going abroad for the first time – especially on your own – is a lot to think about. Between figuring out everything you need to bring, deciding exactly what you want to do while you’re there, and dealing with an entirely new culture, you might be feeling a bit overwhelmed.
Good news though – most of our Boston team has traveled extensively and know a bunch of secrets for making sure your trip not only goes smoothly, but is one of the best experiences of your life. We asked each of them for their number one best tip for first time travelers.
1. Learn some of the language beforehand – and keep learning while you’re there
Learning key phrases before you leave will help you get comfortable with the culture. But when you’re actually in the country, carry a notebook and ask the locals how to say certain words and phrases. It is okay to write them down phonetically – most people will be so surprised and happy to know that you are trying to speak their language. They will encourage you to speak more!
2. Pack (very) lightly
It is tempting to want to pack for every occasion and possibility when you travel abroad. Being prepared is good, but lugging around a big suitcase full of things you will never use is not! Try this: put everything you want to take on your bed. Then take away 1/3 of the stuff. Then take away another 1/3 of the stuff. What is left is what you take! Here is my list of must-haves:
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Ear plugs (for the plane and sleeping in noisy areas)
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Solid colored clothes that can mix, match and layer
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Small quick-dry towel
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1-2 pairs of comfy shoes (no more!)
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Any meds you may need
3. Get a credit or debit card with no foreign transaction fees
This is particularly useful if you’re going on a long trip or plan to travel out of the country a lot in the future. My practical advice is to get an investor’s checking card with Schwab Bank because they do not charge any fees, including exchange rate, transaction, and ATM fees. Really clutch.
4. Get some local currency (but not too much!)
Make sure you exchange your money for the local currency. Even if you plan to use your credit or debit card, it’s still important to have cash for emergencies. You can either change money at the airport when you get there, or at a local bank, where the exchange rate will probably be better. Keep in mind, safety is always the priority for traveling. Don’t carry large amounts of cash with you while you’re out walking around.
5. Download some apps before traveling
My advice is to download some apps before traveling, including maps, restaurants, hotels, etc, in order to avoid downloading fees. For example, the Travelzoo app can help you get great deals in lots of countries and and has options from restaurants to transportation to activities.
6. Be patient and understanding
This is important for several reasons – when dealing with any initial language barrier, which can at first be challenging; when taking public transportation (that may not arrive on time); when adapting to a new culture’s definition of time and punctuality (which may be incredibly different than what you are used to)….For me, the spontaneous, unexpected moments have resulted in some of my favorite memories from traveling abroad.
7. Embrace detours as a chance to explore
While it can be frustrating to face setbacks or detours on your trip, don’t let them get you down. It may not have been exactly what you planned, but having a flexible mindset can transform these otherwise stressful moments into some of the best unexpected opportunities for exploring and truly experiencing the country.
8. It’s okay to be tired!
When that happens – and it will – take a break! Though I’m not talking about getting a manicure, self care is super important while volunteering or traveling in another country. Being in a new environment is both mentally and physically exhausting. If you recognize when you need a rest, you’ll enjoy the rest of your trip much more.
9. Figure out a communication plan with people back home
If you don’t have an international cell phone plan, you won’t be able to communicate easily with friends and family back home. Before you leave, come up with a strategy for checking in once you arrive and while you’re there. If you’ll be relying solely on the internet for communication, apps such as Viber and WhatsApp allow you to make free international calls when you’re connected to wifi.
10. Get in the mentality of saying yes
Take advantage of opportunities to explore areas you might not have planned for, participate in the national holidays and festivals, and talk to locals about any hidden gems you should experience – even if you’re not super excited about it in the first place. You will most likely have a good time and really get a chance to experience the culture and habits of your host country. And even if you don’t have such a good time, it’ll still make a good story to tell!
ABOUT UNITED PLANET
United Planet is a non-profit organization with a mission to create a global community, one relationship at a time. Established in 2001, United Planet offers volunteer abroad, virtual internships, internships abroad, gap year volunteering, and global virtual exchange in more than 40 countries.
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to join the team to help the needy