Firsts are always special, aren’t they? Be it your first salary, first car, or anything else. Imagine going on your first-ever international trip. Sounds exciting, correct? The best part about travelling is exploring new destinations, cuisines, adventurous or theme parks, and more. You must be excited about your journey; however, you should not neglect the importance of travel insurance. You should buy trip insurance to protect yourself from unforeseen events such as flight delays, lost or stolen luggage, and more.
Since you will be travelling abroad for the first time, you might be confused about what to do, what not to do, and how to do it. Lots of questions! Keep reading to know the most important
things for your trip.
1. Prepare Your Travel Documents
Your passport is the key to international travel. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date. Check the visa requirements in advance. You can only apply for a visa if your passport is valid. Some destinations, such as Vietnam and Myanmar, provide visas on arrival, whereas others require an application beforehand.
2. Research Your Destination
You should research your destination in advance. Travelling to a foreign country sounds fun, however, you might face some challenges such as differences in language, culture, and laws. For instance, did you know that chewing gum could land you a fine in Singapore? Foreign countries have strict laws, and it is best to be aware of them ahead of time to avoid trouble.
3. Invest in International Trip Insurance
Health should be your top priority. Medical emergencies can happen at any time, and staying protected against them gives you peace of mind and alleviates your stress. Hence, you should get trip medical insurance. It provides you with financial protection against unexpected medical emergencies. Additionally, travel insurance also provides coverage against unexpected non-medical events such as delayed flights, lost luggage, trip cancellations, and many more.
4. Familiarise Yourself with Currency and Payment Methods
Currency varies greatly across countries, so it’s essential to familiarise yourself with the local money. You should plan and exchange your money when it offers a high exchange rate. You should contact your bank to inquire about the possibility of avoiding a large transaction or service fee. Additionally, debit and credit cards are widely accepted; however, it is recommended to carry an adequate amount of cash to avoid problems.
5. Gather all the Important Documents
Once you have your passport and visa, start gathering the necessary documents for your trip. A list of important documents is mentioned below:
- Passport
- Visa
- Flight tickets
- Hotel confirmation receipts
- International trip insurance
- Medical prescriptions (if any)
- Identification proof \
6. Pack Appropriately
When traveling to a foreign country, you should carry all of your essentials and avoid overpacking. This will save you from paying extra baggage fees, which can be expensive. Here’s a checklist of what to pack:
- Universal power adaptor
- Mobile charger
- USB cable
- Headphones
- Power bank
- Medicines
- First-aid kit
7. Learn Basic Local Phrases
While many places have English speakers, learning a few basic phrases in the local language can be incredibly useful. Some common foreign phrases, such as Hola, amigos, Bonjour, etc., are not too difficult to grasp and will help you connect with local people. It shows respect for the local culture and can even make your trip more enjoyable.
8. Understand Local Transportation Options
Exploring a foreign country for the first time can be a challenge. Familiarise yourself with the local transportation options, such as public transportation, taxis, ridesharing services, and car rentals. Public transportation is more cost-effective and convenient. Research how to navigate the transportation system and understand local traffic rules.
9. Stay Connected and Keep in Touch
Research international phone plans or consider purchasing a local SIM card to avoid expensive roaming charges. Download apps such as maps, and translation tools which will be useful throughout your trip. Keep in touch with your loved ones and share your experiences and location with them to ensure your safety.
10. Be Confident
Travelling abroad can involve unexpected twists and turns. Maintain a versatile mindset and be open to new experiences during your journey. Things might not always go as planned, but often these unplanned moments lead to the most memorable experiences. Be confident, maintain a positive attitude, and travel like a PRO!
Also read: Passport File Number.
Wrapping Up
Travelling to a foreign country for the first time will be an experience of a lifetime that you will remember for a lifetime. Be prepared for new experiences. Things might not always go as per your planning; however, you should welcome anything that comes your way with a positive mindset. Research your destination in advance and invest in international trip insurance for your safety. Don’t forget to carry your passport and visa. It’s the key to your adventurous journey.
Embarking on your first-ever international trip and confused about which international trip insurance to choose? Consider Niva Bupa Travel Insurance. They provide comprehensive coverage specifically designed for international travellers, offering peace of mind with benefits like medical coverage, trip cancellations, and emergency assistance. Their extensive network and round-the-clock support guarantee that you’re well-protected and can navigate any unexpected events with ease.
