Magdalene EnimhienomoFrom my experience, I can tell you that planning an international trip is not easy, especially if it is your first time! Even if it is not your first time, you may still fall short with these worst travel mistakes to avoid that will save you the stress.
I tell you, there are so many details to consider when planning an international trip. From getting my documents together to checking the weather. It is all about the details for me.
I have written extensively about how to plan to your trip even if it is last minute which you should check out. It covers all the details and my recommended travel resources that will come in handy.
Today, I’m here to share some mistakes I have made before to ensure that you do not fall prey to these mistakes when planning your international trip.
Having traveled to several countries and encountered my fair share of travel blunders. These mistakes have shaped me, and I’ve learned valuable lessons along the way.
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Top 10 worst travel mistakes to avoid
These tips are very handy for anyone looking to travel. Whether for local or international trips. A must have for international trips are travel apps. The relief that travel apps like Google translate offers is great. So, I would encourage you to get these best travel apps to make your life easy.
Now, here are the ten worst mistakes to avoid when planning your international trip, so you can enjoy a smooth and memorable journey.
Being overeager
Of course, I know that there is a certain eagerness that comes with planning an international trip and you are probably excited by the numerous opportunities for exploration that comes with the trip.
Due to this, your travel itinerary is over-stuffed, and you have no schedule for rest or downtime. Trust me, it is fair to be excited, but you do not want to experience downtime during your trip as it would dampen your mood.
In my eagerness to see everything during my first international trip, I over-scheduled my itinerary and ended up exhausted. Travel can be overwhelming, especially in unfamiliar environments.
To avoid burnout, allocate downtime in your schedule to rest and recharge. This allows you to soak in your surroundings, discover hidden gems, and appreciate the local culture at a leisurely pace.
Failing to Check Visa Requirements
This is supposed to be a no-brainer, right? However, I can tell you that some frequent travelers get overconfident at some point and fail to check visa requirements for some trips.
I once had an impromptu trip and once traveled to a country without checking the visa requirements. Can you guess what happened next? If you guessed that I ended up being stranded at the airport, you guessed right!
Different countries have different visa policies, and failure to comply can lead to denial of entry. Before booking your trip, research the visa requirements for your destination. Some countries offer e-visas or visa-on-arrival options, while others may require you to apply in advance.
Planning a trip to Nigeria? Check this blog post on how to apply for Nigeria visa as a foreigner. Also, I wrote extensively on Nigeria travel advisory, the culture shock to expect, good hotel recommendations and of course fun things to do.
Not researching enough about your destination
I like to hammer on the fact that no two destinations are the same. Even if they are in the same region, they are not the same! For example, Nigerian and Ghana are both in West Africa, but they are not the same!
When I first traveled abroad, I underestimated the importance of researching my destination. I arrived in a new country without understanding its culture, customs, or even basic local phrases. This lack of knowledge made me feel disoriented and uncomfortable.
Now, I always advise anyone who wants to embark on an international trip to spend time learning about the local culture, etiquette, and customs, and familiarize yourself with common phrases in the native language. Understanding local norms can enhance your experience and help you connect with the locals.
Underestimating Currency Exchange
Always keep in mind that the currency in your home country and that of your destination would likely differ. During one of my trips, I relied solely on my credit card for purchases without considering currency exchange rates. This oversight led to inflated charges due to foreign transaction fees.
To avoid this mistake, research the local currency and exchange rates. Carry some cash for smaller transactions and consider using a no-foreign-fee credit card for larger purchases. It’s also wise to exchange money at authorized locations to avoid scams.
Skipping the Itinerary
Remember when I mentioned that you should not overstuff your itinerary. However, this does not mean that you should not have some things planned out.
Now, while spontaneity can be fun, I found that having a basic itinerary helps maximize my travel experience. On one trip, I missed out on must-see attractions because I hadn’t planned ahead.
When planning an international trip, create a flexible itinerary that includes key sites, activities, and transportation options. This will help you make the most of your time while still allowing for unexpected adventures.
Neglecting Health Precautions
I remembered when I traveled to a tropical destination, I ignored health precautions and ended up battling a mosquito-borne illness. This is why whenever I want to travel anywhere, I ensure to research that country and know what to expect health-wise.
I recommend that you research any vaccinations like yellow fever vaccination or covid, medications recommended for your destination and pack a basic health kit with essentials like pain relievers, insect repellent, and sunscreen.
Staying informed about health risks can prevent unnecessary discomfort during your trip.
Overlooking Local Transportation Options
See, when you travel to a new place, it is best to act like a local. This includes using the local transportation options!
On my first trip abroad, I relied heavily on taxis, which quickly drained my budget. I later discovered that many cities have efficient public transportation systems, including buses and trains, that can save you money and provide a more authentic experience.
These transport options differ with countries. For example, in Nigeria you can opt for the BRT buses in Lagos or tricycles. In most Asian cities like India or Bali, there are budget friendly options like tuktuk, bike rides or bicycle.
Therefore, research local transportation options in advance, and consider downloading apps for navigation and ticket purchases to make getting around easier.
Not Informing Your Bank
After returning from a trip abroad, I learned the hard way that not informing my bank about my travel plans can lead to blocked cards. Many banks have fraud detection systems that flag transactions made in unfamiliar locations.
To avoid this issue, notify your bank and credit card companies about your travel dates and destinations. This simple step will save you from the stress of dealing with frozen accounts while abroad.
Ignoring Travel Insurance
Initially, I thought travel insurance was an unnecessary expense. However, after experiencing a last-minute flight cancellation, I quickly realized the importance of being covered.
Travel insurance protects you from unexpected expenses due to trip interruptions, medical emergencies, or lost luggage. Take the time to compare plans and choose one that fits your travel needs; it’s worth the peace of mind.
There are so many travel insurance options on the market. However, I highly recommend EKTA. They offer insurance policy no matter where you’re travelling to. Whether you are traveling to Africa or the fast east Asia, they’ve got you covered. Also, you get your travel insurance policy in minutes after signing up. Have an upcoming trip, sign up for your travel insurance on EKTA.
Overpacking Your Luggage
My friends say I’m the queen of overpacking, and I don’t disagree. While I still sometimes overpack, I can tell you that it is always my biggest travel regret.
I can tell you that lugging around a heavy suitcase filled with clothes that I don’t wear is never fun. Not only does it weigh me down, but it also makes navigating public transportation a hassle.
To avoid this mistake, make a travel packing list based on your itinerary, and stick to versatile clothing that you can mix and match. Remember, you can always do laundry on the road and buy essentials if necessary.
Also, learn how to pack efficiently too. Roll up clothes that don’t rumpled easily into your bag to optimize space. Clothes make from linen or silk should be folded or placed in an airtight zip lock bag to prevent rumble.
Know your fabrics and if possible dry clean as you stay. Hotels offer these services, and you can do this yourself at Airbnb or guest houses.
So guys which of these worst travel mistakes have you experienced? Are you an over packer or don’t see the importance of travel insurance? Let me know in the comments. Ciao.
