9 common mistakes novice travelers make and how to avoid them

2024 Author: Malcolm Clapton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:44

Independent travel is experiencing a boom in popularity today. A huge number of articles are published on the Web about people who, with only one backpack on their backs, cross half the world, visit the most beautiful and interesting world sights, and learn a new culture. If you are inspired by such examples and are also thinking of going on the road, then read this article first, which, perhaps, will save you from trouble.

1. Too many things

When you are going on a long independent trip for the first time, you want to take as many things as possible with you. Your brain builds more and more sophisticated situations, beginning with the words "What if suddenly …", while the backpack is gradually compacted to a state of absolute impossibility.

Stop! Remember that you have to carry all this on your back and this can turn the journey into torture. Usually, a person needs very few things for life, and those that are lacking can almost always be obtained on the spot. The ability to properly get ready for a trip comes with experience, but it is better to immediately tune in to take only the very minimum with you.

2. Rigid route planning

Sometimes novice travelers believe that if they thoroughly plan the entire route, calculate all transfers and stops, order all tickets in advance, this will save them from surprises and stress.

But more often it turns out the other way around. At the most unexpected moment, an unforeseen circumstance may arise that will bring down your entire carefully designed plan, like a house of cards. Therefore, planning, of course, is necessary, but without unnecessary fanaticism. It is better to leave yourself room for maneuver, so as not to be nervous about delays and delays later.

3. Too fast pace

When you find yourself in a new country, you want to be in time everywhere and see everything. The desire is understandable, but it must be followed carefully. Otherwise, you can turn into a trapped horse, which, without sleep or rest, gallops around the sights to take a few more obligatory photos.

Relax and unwind. You still won't be able to see everything, so focus not on the quantity, but on the quality of your impressions. Meet the sunrises in beautiful places, breathe in the aromas of new dishes, get acquainted with new traditions.

4. Belief in digital technology

You and I live in an absolutely amazing digital time, and many objects today are losing their material embodiment. But in the countries through which your travel itinerary passes, you may not have heard of e-tickets, credit cards and online services yet. Therefore, be prepared for the fact that a completely simple operation, which takes three seconds in your country, will not be available at all elsewhere. Always carry paper copies of your tickets, boarding passes, cards and other important documents with you.

5. Roaming

Reckless use of roaming abroad can cost you a lot. On the Web, you can find enough stories when inexperienced tourists, upon returning home, were forced to pay huge sums for mobile traffic. Therefore, try to find out about roaming rates and find the most suitable cost minimization scheme before starting your trip.

6. Gullibility

Many people in their attitude to independent travel adhere to diametrically opposed points of view. Some believe that the world is full of evil and deceit, therefore, travelers will surely be offended or robbed. Others, on the contrary, paint reality only with pink colors and believe in peace, friendship and mutual assistance.

In fact, the world is colorful, there are both pink rabbits and angry gray wolves in it. You can indeed be deceived or robbed, so you should not recklessly trust every Aboriginal who offers you their "disinterested" friendship. Be alert and listen to your instincts. If an anxiety bell begins to quietly ring inside you, then you should refuse even the most tempting offer.

7. Extravagance

For some people, who in ordinary circumstances are not at all prone to extravagance, travel completely blows away. They begin to buy meaningless "authentic" trinkets, dine in the most expensive establishments and buy pretentious excursions. Then comes sobering, but too late.

Remember that the quality of travel does not always directly depend on the amount spent on it. Know in advance the correct exchange rate, compare prices in different places, do not hesitate to bargain. And never and for anything do not agree to any services without a pre-agreed price, if you do not want to pay a triple tariff later with a scandal.

8. Lack of insurance

We all hope for the best. In most cases, this is exactly what happens. But sometimes travel can go awry. Appendicitis, trauma, food poisoning or common cold - how can this be foreseen? No way, so don't be greedy and be sure to take out travel insurance to help you in case of unforeseen troubles.

9. Ignorance of local traditions

In most cases, people are sympathetic to your tourist status and will forgive minor violations of local customs. But it is important to know when to stop and never break really serious taboos, especially those related to religion. Therefore, take the time and study at least the basic guidelines for behavior in those countries you plan to visit. It's even better if you learn at least a few words in the local dialect. People take this as a sign of respect for their country and tend to respond in kind to you.

What advice would you give to aspiring travelers? Maybe there are interesting stories from personal experience?