6 Hacks Every First-Time Traveller Should Know

Going overseas for the first time can feel like you’re fulfilling a lifelong dream. You’re probably thinking about the amazing food you’re going to eat, the attractions you’ve only seen on YouTube, and the once-in-a-lifetime experience this is going to be. But, before all the fun stuff can start, there’s a few things you need to plan and get ahead of to make sure that this trip is indeed going to be one for the history books. Below are 6 tried and true tips every first time traveller should know, from before you even leave home to when you’re on foreign soil.

1. Book Your Airport Parking in Advance

Let’s start at home, before you even set foot in the terminal. For many first time travellers, one of the most stressful parts of travel is driving to the airport, circling the car park, searching for a spot and watching the clock tick down to your flight’s departure. It’s the kind of experience that can set a bad tone for your trip before you even begin. Instead of leaving your parking to chance, do it in advance. 

You can now book a parking spot online from Parking Up so you have a guaranteed spot when you arrive. Imagine rolling up to the car park, pulling out your reservation and walking off to check-in without the stress of searching for a spot. This one simple step can be a game changer if you like to start a trip feeling calm rather than frazzled. Not to mention it saves you those last minute sprints through the terminal.

2. Pack with Cubes and a “Less Is More” Mindset

There’s something freeing about packing light but many first time travellers stuff their suitcases as if they’ll never come home. The truth is, most destinations have laundry facilities and nearly every city sells clothing if you really need extra layers. To pack efficiently, use packing cubes. These nifty little tools keep your gear organized, compress your clothing for more space and allow you to find what you need without having to turn your suitcase inside out. 

Instead of packing two weeks worth of clothes for a seven day trip, try laying out what you think you’ll need and then remove at least 25% of it. Trust me, you’ll rarely regret leaving extra items behind but you’ll often regret lugging too much around. When you pack less you move more freely, sidestep baggage fees (or at least minimize them) and feel a lot less stressed when it’s time to zip up and hit the road.

3. Download Apps and Offline Maps Before You Fly

Getting lost in a new city isn’t always a bad thing – it can lead to unexpected finds and memorable encounters – but sometimes it’s nice to have a backup plan. Before you leave, spend some time downloading essential travel apps to your phone. Consider offline maps so you can navigate without a Wi-Fi signal. Translation apps can be a lifesaver when you’re struggling with new words and phrases. 

Currency converters help you work out prices without second guessing your mental math. By downloading these digital tools before you go, you’ll have a toolbox ready to guide you through public transportation routes, direct you to local attractions and even highlight highly rated restaurants near you. The key is to do this prep work from the comfort of your own home so when you land you’re ready to hit the ground running.

4. Bring a Portable Power Bank and Universal Adapter

If there’s one universal truth in travel it’s that running out of battery can ruin your day. Your phone is your camera, translator, GPS, boarding pass holder and entertainment system all in one so keeping it charged is crucial. Pack a portable power bank – one with at least one or two full charges in it – and keep it in your carry-on at all times. 

And buy a universal travel adapter that works in multiple regions. It’s a small investment that prevents the horror of arriving at your hotel room and realising you can’t plug anything in and having to search for an electronics store. With your devices charged you’ll feel more confident, connected and secure throughout your journey.

5. Eat the Local Flavours by Visiting Markets and Street Stalls

Restaurants that cater to tourists are fine but if you want to taste the real local culinary life you need to get beyond the touristy places. Venture into neighbourhood markets, food halls or street stalls where locals are grabbing a snack on their way home from work. It’s here you’ll often find unique dishes that don’t make it into the tourist guides. 

Not only will this culinary adventure save you money – street food is often cheaper and surprisingly delicious – but it will also plunge you into the heart and soul of the destination. Don’t be afraid to point, smile and try something you’ve never tasted before. Food is one of the most direct ways into a culture’s traditions and history and nothing makes for a better travel story than recalling that spicy dish you almost didn’t try, only to find it was the highlight of your afternoon.

6. Keep Backups of Important Documents – Physically and Digitally

Losing your passport or ID is a nightmare scenario especially when you’re thousands of miles from home. Preparing for the worst might not be fun but having a plan B can help you recover from mishaps with minimal stress. Before you go, scan your passport, driver’s license and any other important documents. 

Store these scans in the cloud where you can access them from any device if the originals go missing. It’s also a good idea to keep a photocopy in a different part of your luggage or in your daypack. That way if one bag disappears you’ll have proof of identity handy. This might seem like a hassle before you leave but if a crisis hits you’ll be so glad you took the time to prepare.

Conclusion

No two journeys are the same and that’s what makes travel so exciting. With these 7 hacks you can navigate the unknown with more ease. The goal isn’t to eliminate the unknown – some of your best memories will come from the surprises along the way. Instead these hacks will make sure the boring parts of venturing out of your comfort zone don’t overshadow the joy of discovering a new corner of the world. Step forward prepared and watch as the unknown becomes a treasure chest of stories, lessons and unforgettable moments.