Tips And Tricks From My Abroad Trip!

So many emotions can be felt when preparing to go on a trip internationally. It can be nerve-wrecking, exhilarating, and exhausting when trying to prepare for what's to come. I studied abroad at 19 years old and remember being scared of the unknown. The difficulties and challenges of traveling to a foreign country can often times take from the excitement. I wanted to be able to provide tips and tricks I learned while traveling abroad to make your experiences as enjoyable as possible. This guide is your pass to stress-free travel, regardless of experience level or whether this is your first time traveling abroad.

There are a lot of chances for adventure and discovery when traveling internationally, but there are also challenges to be faced. However, if you know the easy tricks for transportation, accommodations, and food, your trip will be much easier to navigate. I'll give crucial advice in this guide to give you the confidence and peace of mind you need to start your abroad travels.

Extensive planning and research are essential components to a successful overseas trip. Make the effort to educate yourself with the local traditions, customs, and cultural norms before departing on your journey. Websites like TripAdvisor provide plenty of information about well-known locations, including suggestions for places to stay, places to eat, and activities that are not to be missed. My favorite app to use while being abroad was Yelp. This app provides you with food ratings and pictures for just about anywhere you want to eat. I am a "foodie" and prefer to see pictures before I place an order.

Staying connected while traveling is easier because of the internet. To ensure seamless connection throughout your travels, think about purchasing a portable Wi-Fi device or an international SIM card. In order to communicate with locals and get past language hurdles, apps like Google Translate can be quite helpful. No matter where your travels take you, a universal power adapter is another essential item to have because it will keep your gadgets charged.

Traveling internationally requires minimal packing. When packing, use strategy and select pieces of clothing that can be easily combined and rearranged to create a variety of looks. Remember to provide space in your suitcase for souvenirs and other things you may find while traveling. Something that I have found helpful while packing for an abroad trip are packing cubes. These organizers provide a unique way to keep all of your items separated while utilizing your suitcase space to the maximum capacity. Once you try this out you will never pack any other way!

Picture this: you are in Florence, Italy and have to be checked out of your staying arrangement by 11 a.m. Your transportation doesn't leave until 4 p.m. that day and you are stuck lugging your luggage around the city. What most people do not know is there is an app called Nannybag. This locates a luggage storage unit near you and provides you with a locker to store your personal items inside while you waste no time exploring the city.

Equipped with these tips and tricks presented in this guide, you'll be ready to travel the world with confidence and comfort. When you plan ahead, do your homework, and pack logically, you can minimize stress and increase enjoyment on your travels. I wish you luck on your trip and I hope it can go as seamless as possible. Traveling is the best gift you can give someone so soak it up and see at many things the eye can catch. Bon Voyage!

Photo by Hannah Holzkamper