Tips For a Seamless 1st Day
As a new traveler, it's easy to get overwhelmed or anxious about traveling to a new country, especially if solo traveling. A few small things can go a long way to relieving your stress. Inevitably there will be hiccups, remember to enjoy the experience and be proactive! Most travel challenges can be solved if you stay calm and assess the situation. Remember to think through the things that give you stress or anxiety when you think about travel and try to get ahead of those. These are our top 5 tips for a stress-free arrival!
Money
If you are an AMEX girlie like me, it’s important to note that many small/local businesses and even areas in general do not accept AMEX. With that in mind, you have a Visa or Mastercard with No Transaction fees. I know a 2-3% transaction fee may sound small, but trust me it adds up!
On the flip side, cash is a must for some activities and businesses, so don’t be afraid to use an ATM abroad. The most important thing to remember is to stay away from those pesky Euronet ATMS, the transaction fees are ridiculous & should be criminal. Find a bank ATM and if it gives you the option to pick the bill denominations, grab smaller bills!
Cellphone
International phone plans through your provider are a great option if you’ll only be out of the country for a few days. However, if you are traveling for an extended period you might want to consider a local SIM card or an eSIM. Something to note, if your phone isn't paid off (AT&T provider) you can’t get an eSIM on your device. Your phone has to be unlocked, so be sure to check if you can unlock your phone before leaving.
If you want to grab a local SIM card, grab it in town or order one before leaving if you don’t want to search for one. Avoid buying at the airport, like everything else they are overpriced! As for eSim, I recommend Airalo, it can be downloaded from the Google or Apple store. Airalo is relatively easy to install and has vast country availability.
Luggage
Do yourself a favor and only take a carry-on roller bag, if you need a second bag consider a travel backpack or collapsible duffle bag that can be slid over your luggage handle. People are not being dramatic when they tell you to leave the big bag at home, there is cobblestone EVERYWHERE, every train/bus station does not have elevators, many hotel/building elevators are tiny and lastly luggage racks on local transportation fill up fast and space is limited! Oh and did I mention the hills, lack of sidewalks and stairs in many countries, don’t say we didn’t warn you!
Power
Two things to be sure to have a travel adapter with a few USB slots and a portable charging bank with built-in cords. It's a game changer, with no bulky cords, easy charging, and small enough for any bag or your pocket!
Airport Transportation
One of the most stressful things after landing is transportation to your lodging; figure it out before you leave. In large cities you’ll have Ubers, trains, trams, and even buses available; a lot of options. At smaller airports and more remote locations, this can be tricky, the biggest tip is don’t agree to taxi rides with people soliciting riders in the airport! There will be a taxi queue in a designated area, go there and wait. Typically the drivers soliciting riders charge you more and may not even be licensed. Make safe choices!
