Leaving the country for the first time can be a bit scary to think about, but a little preparation can go a long way. Here are a few things to think about before you depart so that you'll be ready for adventure.


Prepare to Get From the Airport to Your Accommodations Safely


When you get off the plane, chances are you'll be tired, and just want to get to wherever you're staying. Knowing how to get there beforehand will be valuable. First, use Google Map's street view to see what your accommodations look like from the outside. This can be especially helpful if you're taking public transit and then walking, or if your driver isn't familiar with the area you're going to.

Next, research your transportation options. Whether via public transportation or taxi, you'll want to make sure you don't get scammed. Some cities or countries have laws regulating taxis and how much they can charge. Know how to navigate public transportation. Learn when to pay, how to pay, how much it will cost, what routes to take, where to enter/exit, etc., it makes things go much more smoothly when all you want to do is rest.

Get Your Money in Order


You have two main areas to think about here: gathering money to start your trip off and making sure you'll be able to use your credit or debit cards abroad. Before you take off, make sure you have some of the local currency with you because the moment you step outside the airplane, you'll need to start paying for stuff. Having the local currency already in hand will make that easier. Alternatively, you can use the ATM at the airport to get cash.

Sometimes you can get a decent exchange rate from your local bank branch, especially if you want a larger amount of money or you've been a great customer for them. You can also talk to your bank about what the withdrawal fees you'll incur, and if you can get them waived. Your bank may also have a partnership with a foreign bank and can use their ATMs without paying a fee. Plan your spending out so that you make as few withdrawals as possible.


Your credit cards may also have international fees, so you'll want to check whether yours is a no foreign transaction fee credit card or not. You'll also need to let your bank and credit card companies know where and when you'll be traveling. They'll want as many details as you can give, but even just telling them the cities you'll be in and what period of time you'll be gone should suffice. This will stop them from thinking someone has stolen your cards and freezing your accounts. Let them know when and where you'll be, and you should have no problems.

Do Some Research on Your Destination(s)


Arm yourself with some knowledge on the spots you'll visit to help you have a local experience and get the most out of your adventure. Learn a few common phrases in the local language. Some necessary ones include thank you, yes, no, Where is X?, help, bathroom/toilet, and sick. Dig into the country's history and culture, which can help you start a conversation with a local or manage your expectations of treatment. Also research local food specialties. Trying a dish in it's place of origin can be a heavenly experience. After all, what better place to have pasta bolognese than Bologna?


For safety's sake, find out the location and contact info for your country's embassy (if there is one). This is information you hopefully won't have to use, but if there's an emergency or you lose your passport, you'll be glad you have it.

Have all your paperwork in order a few months before you leave, in case you need to get a passport or visa. Also, if you plan to send postcards or letters, gather addresses beforehand to ensure you don't forget someone. In the days before smartphones, I used to print them out on stickers for easy application to postcards.


Traveling internationally for the first time can be a little intimidating, but prepare yourself in these areas and your journey will go more smoothly and allow you to focus on what matters most, enjoying it!

Images from armin_vogel , @N07 , pinksherbet .

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