Preparing for your first vacation can be overwhelming, right? Although each first-time traveller’s preference and each trip are unique, I have compiled a list with 24 useful tricks that I believe will be helpful for any beginner.
To make it easier, I’ve divided them into three categories.
- First-time traveller’s tips for planning
- First-time traveller’s tips for packing time
- Tips for first-time travellers on the actual trip
No matter where you are on your journey, you will find useful information here.
First-time traveller’s tips for planning
1. Invest in good equipment
Before you leave, invest in a comfortable, well-fitting backpack and good shoes if you plan to travel to several places. Spend money on these two items if you are going to spend it somewhere.
2. Travel insurance is available
Travel insurance is expensive, and no one wants it. Do it anyway. You can trust me.
3. Get an eSIM
It is important to stay connected when travelling abroad. This can be for navigation, accommodation and transportation bookings, or even communicating with the locals. With an eSIM, you can connect instantly to local networks and avoid the inconvenience of public WiFi, which is often slow or unsafe. Simpackers.com can help you compare the most suitable eSIMs for your trip. This is a secure and simple way to guarantee a reliable connection wherever you are.
4. Budget your money carefully
It is worth reading my article about planning your travel budget, which goes into greater detail. But a good tip to follow is to plan your backpacking costs as well as possible and then bring twice the amount of money you think you will need.
5. Safety tips: Brush up
You shouldn’t fear exploring the world, but you should still be careful when you travel. Research safety tips while travelling and backpacking.
As you gain confidence, continue to explore other destinations.
6. Speak to your bank
If you spend money in another country without warning, your bank will flag it. And you do not want to be in a country where you can’t access your account. Talk to your credit card company and bank about any foreign transaction fees. Consider opening an account with a bank like Charles Schwab. They don’t charge foreign transaction fees, and they reimburse ATM fees every month.
7. Camping is a great way to save money
Depending on where you are going, tent camping can save you a lot of money. You’ll still need to bring a tent, but the cost savings may be worth it.
8. Work exchange programs can help you stay longer
Work exchanges are a great way to experience a new culture and immerse yourself in the local culture. By living and working with the locals, you can stay longer and gain a more authentic cultural experience. Worldpackers offers many different projects around the world. It is a good platform for people to get started with volunteering. They also have a team of trained professionals to ensure that you and your host have a safe and fun experience.
9. Travel during the off-season
When considering travel during the off-season, it is best to ask yourself what makes this period so special. You can be sure that peak travel times are popular for a good reason. Savings may be worth a little less favourable weather or even missing out on some seasonal events. But it’s something to consider.
10. Get to know your destination
I cannot emphasize this tip enough for first-time travellers: Before you travel, do some research on the destination. Haggling is acceptable, and tipping is expected. What is appropriate clothing in different situations? What is the forecast for your visit? What are the local scams that you should be aware of? These are all important questions that you should ask before your trip.
A great tip to follow is the Adventure Planning Guide.
First-time traveller’s tips for packing time
11. Pack light
Pack light is one of my main tips for first-time travellers. This is especially true if you want to backpack. Test out the weight of your backpack to familiarize yourself. Wear your backpack for a few days as you go through your day. After you do this, you will be more inclined to reduce unnecessary weight before your departure.
12. Pack medicine
A first-aid kit will help you have a relaxing trip. If you’re travelling to a foreign country, you should bring a variety of medicines, bandages, antibiotics, antibiotic ointment, etc. Be sure to get enough of your daily medication.
13. Bring a journal
This may already be on your list if you want to keep a journal. You should still consider it if you haven’t already done so. Even if you don’t journal, you may find yourself wishing you had some paper and a pen at one point.
14. Keep copies of important documents
Remember to copy all important documents, such as your passport or visa, in the event that your originals get lost or stolen. It is best to have both digital and hard copies.
15. Keep in mind these random but useful things
- Microfiber towel
- Ear plugs
- Toilet paper (not the whole roll, but keep some on hand)
- Duct tape
- Water filter (depending on your destination)
- A comfort item can help you feel at home on long trips. It could be anything from a stuffed animal to a t-shirt of a loved one or your favourite tea or coffee.
16. Think synthetics and layers when packing clothing
Synthetic clothing dries faster and is lighter than cotton, making it perfect for travel. Layering is a great way to switch climates.
17. Your backpack is waterproof
Your backpack may come with a rain cover. However, I have found that these are not reliable. To protect everything, try lining your bag with a large, waterproof bag.
18. Battery pack
When I was in a city for the first time, my phone died, I didn’t have any cash to pay for a bus or streetcar, and I couldn’t use Uber. I was also unsure how to return to my hostel in the absence of GPS. It was a long journey back, but I would have been less stressed if I had extra batteries to charge my phone.
19. Note down the address where you will be staying
Keep the address for your hostel, host, or hotel in your pocket every time you arrive at a new place. You can ask for directions even if there is no GPS or WiFi.
Tips for first-time travellers on the actual trip
20. Travel in bulky clothing
You will have more room to pack your bag when you need it.
21. Hide your cash in multiple places
A money belt is a great idea. It stores your money away from your bag or coat in case it gets lost. If your bag, coat, etc., is stolen or lost, keep some cash on you, some in your purse, and some at your hotel.
22. Cook for yourself or stay in hostels that offer free breakfast
By cooking and eating free meals, you can save a lot of money. Most hostels provide a free breakfast or at least have a kitchen where you can prepare your meals. You can volunteer for almost any project, including farms, ecovillages, and communities.
23. Locals are the best people to talk to
Locals can be your best source of information. Locals can give you valuable information about the safety of certain areas of the city, hidden gems to discover, and the culture of the region. Begin by talking to the person who works at the reception of your hotel or hostel. Your host is the perfect person to help you out if you’re volunteering!
24. Take care of yourself
Even though it may seem like it, life continues even when we are on vacation. Nothing is worse than being sick on a backpacking trip. Don’t be afraid to indulge in a little extra alcohol or eat some of the local food, but take care of yourself.
Drink water and give your body time to recover and rest. On travel days, keep snacks on hand because you will need energy and more calories when you are travelling with a pack.
You can read more on this topic: 10 tips for eating healthy when travelling on a tight budget.
25. Be flexible
Be flexible when planning your trip. List your bucket list items for each destination, but leave a few days free in case you want extra rest or the weather is not favourable one day.
26. Free WiFi is everywhere!
Do some research and keep in mind which local places offer free WiFi (think McDonald’s or Starbucks). When you arrive in a new place, download city maps to your phone. You can then use them even if your phone is not connected to WiFi.
27. Check in with friends and family
Before you depart, give your itinerary to several family members or friends. Check-in regularly with your family and friends. You could send an email each night before you go to bed, but knowing that someone is expecting you to check in each day and knows your location can be a big help if anything goes wrong on your backpacking trip.
27 First-Time Travelers Tips and Tricks have been very helpful. Backpacking is a great learning experience, but it will become easier with time.
