Fear is a powerful deterrent. Taking the leap into the unknown is scary, but remember, you aren’t the first person to travel the world. There is a well-worn travel trail out there and people to help guide you along the way. If millions of people can make their way around the world each year, you can too.

You’re just as capable as anyone else. After all, you did the hardest part: deciding to go. Having the courage to make that decision is the hardest part.

Don’t live by your guidebook

Guidebooks are useful for a general overview of a destination. They’re a great way to learn the basics and get introduced to the cities and countries you plan to visit. But you’ll never find the latest off-the-beaten-path attractions, bars, or restaurants in them. For the latest info (as well as insider tips), connect with locals.

Use websites like Meetup.com or Couchsurfing to connect directly with local and expats so you can get suggestions, advice, and tips to make the most of your trip.

Additionally, take a free walking tour when you get to a new city. You’ll be able to connect with an expert local guide whose job it is to share their advice. The best places to eat, best bars, best off-the-beaten-path activities — they know it all.

Travel slow

Travel is about quality, not quantity. Don’t worry about how much you see. Don’t worry about trying to impress people with the number of countries you’ve visited. Slow down and soak up your destinations. You’ll learn more, enjoy it more, and have a much more memorable experience.

When it comes to travel, less is more. Traveling slow will also help reduce your transportation costs.

Pack light

While travelling, pack light. You’ll have less to carry, saving you the hassle and stress of lugging a huge backpack around for weeks (or months) on end.

Unless you are going somewhere cold, a bag of around 40 liters will suffice. Bags around this size are easier to carry, don’t get too unwieldy, and can fit on your flight as carry-on only if need be (a huge perk if you want to save yourself some headaches).

Get travel insurance

Whether you’re a travel veteran or a brand new backpacker, don’t leave home without making sure you’re protected in case something goes wrong. To ensure you’re protected, buy travel insurance.

Go with the flow

When making your plan, make sure that it’s flexible. Learn to go with the flow. Plan one or two activities and let the rest of the day happen.

It’ll be a more enjoyable and less stressful experience. You’ll be surprised by what happens. Be flexible. Let life unfold the way it should.

Bring extra money

Travel isn’t as expensive as many people think but you still need to create a budget that meets your needs. The secret to long term travel is smart money management.

However, always overestimate the amount you need. You never know what might come up on the road.

Be adventurous

The only time we grow is when we’re outside of our comfort zones. And travel is about growth. That doesn’t mean you need to do dangerous things, but it does mean you need to push yourself beyond what you’re used to.

Hiking, sky diving, eating new foods, camping, rock climbing, hitchhiking — whatever taking a risk looks like to you is 100% ok. Everyone has different interests and tolerance levels. Push yours. It may be scary and uncomfortable at the time, but you’ll be glad you did it later. Challenge yourself. Try new things. You’ll walk away more self-confident.

It’s ok to change your mind

If you hate a city, leave and go to another one. If you don’t enjoy the tour you are on, cancel it early. And if you really love the place you’re visiting, change your plans and stay longer. The beauty of going with the flow is that you are the master of your domain and answer to no one. Do whatever you want.

It’s perfectly normal to change your mind on the road. Maybe that means extending your trip. Maybe that means going home early. There’s nothing wrong with either choice. Always remember you can go home if you aren’t having fun. You aren’t stuck with your decision to travel or your decision to be in a specific place. You’re the captain on your own ship. Never forget that!

Remember, you’re not alone

Wherever you go, there is a network of travelers who will be your friends, give you advice or tips, and help you out. They will guide you, point you in the right direction, and be your mentors.

https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/new-traveler-advice/