International Travel Tips | Top Tips For An Unforgettable Adventure | Adventure Unbound

Travel opens up a whole world of adventure to create memories that will last a lifetime. But things can also go wrong, particularly for those without much experience on the road. So to help you negotiate the twists and turns travel throws at you, we’ve put together 11 of our top tips for a safe, rewarding and unforgettable trip. 

1. Research your destination
One of the most rewarding aspects of travel is experiencing first-hand the local culture or seeing history come to life. A little research before you go can help put what you see into context and offer a far more enriching experience. The internet offers a wealth of information for learning about local religions, customs and etiquette, while novels based in your destination country will help you get a feel for what you are about to encounter. 

Check Out: Cadagon Guide Books

2. Check local scams
Unfortunately, tourists can sometimes be the target of scammers who’ll try and rip you off or lure you out of money. The best tactic for combatting this is to be smarter than them and educating yourself on some of the most common scams before you depart. Having your wits about you and trusting your instincts with people can also go a long way in ensuring your safety.

3. Be flexible in your plans
Even if you’re traveling with a tour company on a set itinerary, there are times when things go wrong. Vehicles break down, natural disasters hit and incidents occur that are outside anyone’s control. Rather than dwelling on these problems or pointing fingers, just embrace the situation and make the most of it. Patience is key when traveling--particularly in destinations where infrastructure is limited or extreme weather events are not uncommon. Being flexible with your travel plans will help dispel disappointment, but also open up a whole new world of adventure. 

4. Invest in travel insurance
A medical emergency when you’re abroad can wipe out your savings in an instant, particularly if you need to be airlifted from a remote destination or have life-saving surgery. Even if you’re not taking valuable items with you and have flexibility with your flights and accommodation, travel insurance is worth its weight in gold when it comes to medical coverage. It might seem like an added expense at the time of purchase, but it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind that you’ll be covered in the event of an emergency. 

Check Out: Travel Insured International, Travel Guard

5. Photocopy/scan important documents
One of the worst-case scenarios when you’re traveling is to have your passport stolen or lost. Depending on where you are, this can be easily rectified with a visit to a consulate or it can spell the end of your trip. Always take a photocopy of your passport and a few extra passport photos just in case this happens, and scan a copy to your email address so you can access it in an emergency. This will help to verify your identity if your passport does go missing and may prevent you from having to return home. 

6. Learn a few phrases in the local language
Even if you’re on an organized tour with a bilingual guide who will do all the translating for you, knowing a few phrases in the local language will go a long way in endearing you to residents. Simple things like “hello,” “please,” “thank you” and “excuse me” will usually bring a smile (even if pronounced incorrectly), while other phrases like “I don’t eat meat” or “I’m allergic to…” will be of assistance when dining out. More than anything, learning a little of another language can be a lot of fun and a great way to get insight into the local culture. 

Check Out: Duolingo App and Lonely Planet Phrasebook & Dictionary

7. Notify your bank before you go
These days, most banks have automatic security systems that will suspend your card if they see a suspicious transaction from abroad. To avoid being left cashless and having to make an expensive international phone call to rectify the situation, let your bank know where you will be before you set off on your travels. It’s also a good idea to take a backup card in case one gets stolen or eaten up by a cash machine, and always keep the phone number of your bank handy just in case you need to cancel a card urgently. 

8. Be open minded
Where you were brought up significantly impacts your view on the world and what is considered acceptable and unacceptable. But step into another country and these things change, with different religions, traditions and customs affecting the way people behave and how they choose to lead their lives. As a visitor to their country, it’s important that you are respectful and don’t pass judgment, even if you don’t agree with the way things are done. Nobody likes to be told by outsiders how they should do things, and you’ll probably get a frosty reaction if you try and do so. 

9. Take a travel first aid kit
A compact first aid kit packed with aspirin, bandages, cold and flu medication, antibacterial cream and pills to deal with upset stomachs can be a lifesaver when you’re on the road. You might not always be within easy reach of a pharmacy, or they might not stock the medication you prefer. Keep in mind that different countries have different rules about what drugs can (and can’t) be brought in, so always check online first if you’re planning on taking something a little out of the ordinary. 

Check Out: Adventure Medical Travel Kits

10. Be discreet about your tourist identity
Wandering around with a camera hung around your neck or a guide book in hand immediately identifies you as a tourist and can make you more susceptible to thieves or scammers. So rather than flaunting your tourist identity (and wealth), try to be a little discreet. Put your camera away when you’re not using it, and check maps before you step outside your hotel rather than scrawling over it in the middle of the street. Walk with confidence (particularly if you’re out after dark), and be selective about who you ask for directions. 

11. Put the camera down
It’s easy to become obsessed with documenting every aspect of your adventure through photographs and videos, but remember to sometimes put the camera or phone away and just experience being in the moment. Enjoy the encounters with people and the atmosphere that might be a world away from your life back home, as it’s these things that make travel such a rewarding and truly special experience.