7 embarrassing mistakes to avoid on your first international trip

Are you travelling abroad for the first time? It can be an exciting yet nerve-wracking process because you feel so overwhelmed by the planning, and what to do and what not to do while you reach your destination abroad - right?

Here are some rookie mistakes to avoid so that your first international trip is smooth and memorable.

1. Not checking the expiration date on your passport

• Before booking a holiday or the second you start considering travelling internationally, it is obvious to check your passport expiration date.
• This is because several countries require your passport to be valid up to 6 months after your intended return date.
• Also, passport renewal can be a lengthy and time-consuming process, so always give yourself that extra time to fix all these logistical issues (because once you have the passport, you will also have to apply for the specific country's visa and that's a whole other ball game!)

2. Not packing the right items or overpacking

• Pack according to your trip, the weather and the way you have planned it. Any special occasion? Or is it packed with adventurous or thrill-seeking activities? It is important to have the necessary clothing, shoes and accessories.
• Carrying valuables: Wearing and carrying expensive jewellery, watches or any other price items can attract the attention of pickpockets; be cautious and mindful of what you carry.
• Do not overpack: Packing light is also the key, if you are to use public transport wherever you are travelling, it's advisable to keep your luggage as light as possible. (after all, you're the one who is going to be lugging all that weight around)
• Power adapters (depending on which country you're flying to) and chargers for your electronics is a must.
• Choosing the right luggage: You might want to take a suitcase that is spacious, is in a good shape and has smooth wheels that makes it easy to drag around.

3. Forgetting to check your phone plan

• Before you jet-set abroad, check if your mobile carrier has international roaming or buy a plan from your mobile carrier that includes international roaming depending on your destination.
• Also see if you have data abroad so that you can easily operate Google Maps and more when you don't have WiFi. 

4. Creating an overambitious itinerary

• You're probably excited to see it all in those limited number of days and want to make the most of it (and your money's worth), but it's important to have a well-planned and spaced out itinerary just in case you want to take things slow, at your own pace and just live in the moment.
• You would want to have make memories that are clear rather than have a hectic travel plan which will be such a blur.
• Immerse yourself in the culture of that place and spend some time relaxing. (Also, if you enjoy seeing or spending time at a particular tourist spot - relax there - don't feel guilty by the rush of covering all the tourist spots at once.)

5. Not figuring out your finances before the trip

• Managing your finances before you leave and while you are at your destination is highly advisable. 
• Create a travel budget to know how much you have to spend where and how much you can save to spend on your personal expenses (shopping, etc.)
• Buy train tickets, or tickets to the popular tourist attractions you intend on visiting beforehand. (If you're visiting a very popular tourist attraction, the tickets might sell out before you reach there, so, plan in advance or book one of those skip-the-queue online tickets)
• Always carry some foreign cash, you might not know when you might need it. Don't carry too much of cash and check the government guidelines on how much cash you can carry as a tourist in that country.
• Get a foreign country-friendly credit card; have an international credit card and make sure you know if there is a limit on international transactions.
• Choose a Forex card: Getting a Forex card is more advisable than carrying a credit card; this is because on a credit card, you will have to pay both the international transaction fees and a conversion fee, but a Forex card saves you from paying both. Through a Forex card, you can withdraw foreign currency from the ATM and you can carry multiple currencies on that one card.
• Divide your money into different spots: Never carry or roam around with all your cash in your pocket, wallet or a purse. Always divide your money and keep them in safe spots in your carry-ons and luggage so that in case any of your bags gets lost, you'll still have some money that you can use in an emergency. This tip will help you keep safe along the trip.

6. Not getting a travel insurance

• Travel insurance is a must. It keeps you safe, stress-free and addresses all the potential threats or losses you might face on your international trip.
• You can choose any insurance plan to your liking that covers your travelling, health, luggage loss, accidents, theft, flight cancellations and more and fully compensates you from your losses, and in case if you ever have to go to the hospital, the travel insurance will save you from paying high hospital fees.

7. Being clueless about the local culture, traditions and food

• It's always nice to read about the local culture, traditions and food of the country or the city that you intend to visit; so that you know what you're in for.
• Know the basic manners or how people greet each other in that specific country.
• Food tip: Don't settle for the first restaurant you spot in a popular tourist attraction, because first, explore more and maybe you can find more authentic cuisines. Second, those restaurants might be overpriced because they cater to tourists.
• You can find classic local food places on food blogs run by local people or those trending on social media.

Do you have any more mistakes in mind? Let us know in the comments.

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