When I first started traveling, I felt a strange mixture of anticipation, anxiety, and thrill. As I was experiencing such contradictory emotions, I had no idea what to expect. In order to find the answer, I started taking my travel passion seriously. Sometimes I was stuck and other times I learned something new. I gained something valuable in any case. Inexperienced, I made many mistakes. At times, I had no idea what to do.
After three years of traveling (one trip per month), I have a lot to share. It was impossible for me to travel alone, so I’d like to share ten tips with new travelers. It will also help you to boost your level of self-confidence.
Be confident
The fear of losing something is the strongest deterrent. It can also bring out your best qualities. It’s like taking a big leap of faith if you decide to follow your passion with all your heart, especially if it’s something you want to do alone. It’s a scary experience and you may be scared, but relax and calm down. You’re not the first to travel around the globe. There are people who can guide you along your journey if you need help. You can do it too, because thousands of people travel around the world every year. You can be nervous but giving up is not a solution. Do not postpone trips. Just get going. You’re just as good as anyone.
Don’t hurry
Will you stop for a moment? The race of life is not for the quickest. You’re on vacation to relax your senses. What’s the use of a vacation if you are also in a rush? It’s tempting to want to know everything about a location, but it is not possible. Even if you do your best, you will never be able to see every single popular attraction. Do not make traveling about how many countries you’ve visited or what photos you plan to upload on social media. Travelling isn’t about rushing through 10 cities in a 10 day period. It’s just stress. The only thing you will remember is the photos. You will find that at the end of a trip like this, you have seen everything and yet nothing.
Slow down and read your favorite book in a café or rejuvenate your senses in a spa. Take pictures to remember. You will enjoy a more rich experience. Remember that our best memories are not captured on photos. Please, in this world of tourists and travelers, be a traveler.
Pack Light
Travel tips are essential for women, in particular. When packing for a trip, remember that you will be the only one who must carry your luggage. Don’t overpack. Pack according to the weather of your destination. One pair of shoes is sufficient. The same goes for bottoms. The perfect outfit is a pair of jeans, (ok, fine, girls, no more than two), a pair of shorts and 1-2 tops. (Of course, the ones that don’t need ironing). It will be difficult to carry all of the items you have in your bag if you stuff them all into it.
Packing in a small bag is the best way to go. You will not be able to store things you do not need. You will be able to carry less.
Carry extra cash
In contrast to the common misconception that travel is expensive and that not everyone can afford it I have learned that you can make it budget-friendly, if that’s what you want. In addition, it is important to have some extra money with you at all times while traveling. You could need extra cash at any moment, as you can never predict if your itinerary will change or anything else. A trip can be interrupted by an urgent situation. There aren’t ATMs in every place. Take more cash than you think you’ll need and avoid unnecessary spending.
Carry a first aid kit and a lock
You must always carry a lock, especially if you are staying in a hostel or dorm. You will have to lock up your belongings as you’ll be sharing a room with strangers. A basic first aid kit is important to have with you. Always be prepared. I carry bandaids, ointment to treat cuts, some medicines and pepper spray.
Let life unfold
In our everyday lives, we are already under stress due to the schedules and timetables that we must follow. Do not let stress creep into your holiday. Travel plans should be flexible and you should try to adapt as the situation changes. Preparation is important, but too much will prevent you from experiencing any adventures or happy travel mishaps. Travelling often means you will be faced with difficult situations and have to find a way to escape safely. You’ll want to share these stories with your children and grandchildren in the future! !
Over-planning can be stressful because you are bound to a set agenda. Sit back, plan one or two things and then see what happens. This will make the experience more enjoyable. Don’t over-plan; let life surprise you.
Be bold
I’m writing this for all introverts. You are very shy and always worried about what other people think. It takes guts to talk with someone you don’t know. Before I travelled, I felt the same way. I still feel a bit like that. We are all in the same boat. While travelling, everyone else is looking for someone with whom to chat. You don’t have to talk with anyone because most of us, including myself, enjoy solitude. It’s about the times you need to ask someone a question, but are too shy to do it.
Many travelers are extroverts and want to make new friends on their travels. All you need to do is say “hi” and the rest will follow. You don’t need to be glued to the screen of your mobile all day long or listen to music. Just talk to your travel companion. You have nothing to loose, and you’ll gain confidence in the process.
Try Adventure Activities
I’m not a fan of heights. Especially if I need to jump off. If you want an experience that can’t be described in words, you need to step out of your comfort zones and try something you think will give you an adrenaline rush. Adventure activities can give you that adrenaline rush that will make you feel alive. You’ll scream as a baby when you jump off the cliff but you’ll feel more alive than ever in that nanosecond. You will gain confidence by participating in any adventure activity, especially if you are a first-time traveler. Risk taking and trying new things is important. Challenge yourself. Self-confidence is a result of challenging yourself.
Networking is essential
You will meet many new people while traveling. It could be an interesting couple, or a group consisting of good guys, or a few funny girls. You may make lifelong friendships with some of these people who share your interests. Get their contact details if you want to connect with them. Facebook, Instagram, etc. Facebook, Instagram, etc. have made it easy to stay connected with others. Do not let these globetrotters disappear from your mind after your return from your vacation. You can learn a lot from other people’s travels. If you want, you can plan a trip together.
Don’t be lonely
Never feel alone when you travel. You can make friends with other travelers. You can either take their advice or share your own. You are not on your own. Prepare yourself to meet many people who share your interests. You are not alone, even if you travel solo. You are probably nervous. I was too when I first started traveling. Human nature is to worry. That’s normal. You don’t go on a vacation, but the trip does. It makes you better, maybe the best version you can be someday.
Just relax, breathe and enjoy yourself. Travelling is a great experience.
Happy Traveling 🙂