Hope. Fear. Excitement. The excitement of travelling for the first is palpable.
When I set out on my first trip around the world, I had no idea what to expect.
With over 17 years of travel experience, I now know better. Now, travelling is second nature to me. When I arrive at an airport, I am on autopilot.
Back then, I was a complete greenhorn. This was my first trip abroad.
To make up for my lack of experience, I used my guidebooks to get my feet wet and went on organized tours. I was inexperienced and young and made many rookie travel mistakes.
I understand what it is like to be just starting, with a mind full of questions, worries, and concerns.
If you are wondering how to travel and want some advice on how to prepare, I have 12 tips for first-time travellers that will help you avoid my mistakes.
1. Don’t Be Scared
Fear can be a powerful motivator. It’s scary to leap into unknown territory, but you’re not the first person who has travelled the world. You’re not exploring new continents or uncharted territory.
You can find a well-trodden travel path, and some people will guide you. You can do it, too, if millions of people are able to travel around the globe every year. You are just as capable of travelling as anyone else. You did the hard part, which was to decide to go. The hardest part is having the courage to take that decision.
Everyone makes mistakes. Everyone does (myself included). It’s all part of the experience.
You’ll find many people willing to help. You will be surprised at how kind and helpful people can be. You will make friends, survive, and be better off.
2. You don’t have to live by your guidebook
Guidebooks can be useful to get a general idea of a place. Guidebooks are a good way to get an overview of a destination and learn about the basic facts. You won’t find any of the newest off-the-beaten-path attractions, bars or restaurants.
Connect with locals to get the latest information (and insider tips). Connect directly with locals and expats using websites such as Meetup.com and Couchsurfing. You can receive advice and tips on how to maximize your trip.
Take a free walking trip when you arrive in a new town. It’s a great way to meet a local expert who is happy to give you their best advice. They know the best restaurants, bars and off-the-beaten-path activities.
Ask other travellers or staff at your hostel/hotel. Also, visit the local tourism board. This is an often overlooked great source of information. Locals can guide you to the best places!
Use a guidebook as a foundation for your plans, but get the latest information from locals to fill in the details.
3. Travel Slow
Most new long-term travellers (including myself) learn this the hard way.
It can be tempting to try to fit in as many activities and cities as possible, particularly if your vacation only lasts a few days.
Rushing from one city to another every day will leave you stressed and exhausted. The whirlwind will leave you with a lot of blurry memories. You’ll get some amazing pictures for Instagram, but is this really the reason you travel?
Rolf Potts is the author of Vagabonding, a best-selling book.
Quality, not quantity, is what matters in travel. Do not worry about the number of places you visit. Do not try to impress others with how many countries you have visited. Slow down to enjoy your destination. You will learn more and enjoy the experience more.
When it comes to travelling, less is more. Traveling slowly can also reduce transportation costs. Slower travel is cheaper!
4. Pack Ligh
When I visited Costa Rica in 2003, I packed a bag with a lot of stuff. I had hiking boots, pants, a fleece jacket, too many clothes, and toiletries that weighed as much as my entire body. All of it sat in the bag, mostly unopened.
Instead of packing for the actual trip, I packed “just in case”.
Remember that you can always buy more things when you’re on the road. You can purchase everything abroad: socks, shampoo, jackets and new shoes. You don’t need to bring the whole kitchen sink.
Pack light. Pack light. You will have less to carry and won’t be burdened with a heavy backpack for weeks or months.
A bag of around 40 litres is sufficient unless you’re going somewhere very cold. This size bag is easier to carry and doesn’t become too bulky. It can also fit in your carry-on if necessary.
Find the right bag for you and your budget.
5. Get Travel Insurance
Whether you are a seasoned traveller or a new backpacker, make sure that you have the right protection in case of an emergency. The COVID-19 Pandemic taught us that sudden emergencies can happen out of the blue.
I’ve had my luggage lost. In Thailand, I ruptured my eardrum. In Colombia, I was stabbed.
One of my friends has broken a bone while travelling. My friends needed helicopter evacuation from the Amazon. I have friends who were forced to fly home because of a sudden death.
Stuff happens. Things happen.
Travel insurance is a great way to protect yourself.
I always carry it with me because I am aware of how quickly things can turn bad. Be protected. You’ll also feel more confident and have peace of mind.
