Don't get me wrong, I am not the perfect traveler. In fact I consider myself a very unlucky traveler who gets in all sorts of messes. This one time I was on a flight that was delayed on the runway for 2 hours THEN we took off and not even 2 hours in the air they landed early at some middle of nowhere airport to THEN be delayed for another 5 hours to THEN be put on a bus which was a 4 hour ride to THEN be delayed overnight in the airport to THEN having an extra layover to finally getting home. My 12 hour travel day became 36 hours. Yup. Here's a list of things I have learnt throughout my adventures:
1. Don't be afraid of street food - I know the comfort of western food in a third world country is nice however you will spend way more $ than necessary and you'll miss the experience of trying something new.
2. Get a 35-40 litre backpack for your bag. We're human and can only carry so much plus you'll find you only use 10% of your bag! Most hostels have laundry or you can find a coin laundry anywhere. Also, don't check in your bag, you don't need all that extra stuff. Buy travel size lotions/face products and buy the shampoo bars from lush they are a God send!
3. Travel by yourself at least ONCE. People may say "she's going to learn about herself" and nag about it but honestly traveling solo will change your entire perspective on everything. You'll learn what makes you happy, annoyed, stressed, angry and you'll learn how to handle it on your own. You won't have anyone's schedule to go by, you can sleep in or get up early if you'd like the world is literally your oyster.
4. Don't be afraid to use a map - as well you can pre-download google maps so you can use it when you're off wifi/data.
5. Don't get a money belt - they are stupid and unnecessary. It shouts I'm a tourist with money to hide and that's what thieves love! The more you act like a local the more you'll blend in.
6. When you go out only carry what you need, just enough money for your meal/activity, your phone and a camera and leave the rest LOCKED at your hostel.
7. Download duolingo and learn some phrases of the country you are going to! "How much?" "Where's the bathroom?" and always your coffee order.
8. Mcdonalds are a wifi hot spot in every country, just don't eat there lol
9. Avoid eating in touristy areas - eat where the locals eat
10. Be open to strangers but keep your guard up, locals can be super helpful and not all bite however, some do.
11. When you go to eat something, don't ask what it is and if you're super curious ask after. I have had a plate of chicken heads, road kill monkey, jellyfish, bear, guinea pig and sadly, a pup. If I had known what any of these were I probably wouldn't of been as daring but now they make a good story.
12. Don't overplan your trip, there's nothing worse than loving a destination and having to leave early because you have a bunch of places booked.
13. Be frugal but not cheap. Time is money, if you don't want to spend $5 for a car ride and rather walk 5 hours that's foolish. Also bargain but don't bargain too hard, the local probably needs the money more than you.
14. Don't forget your camera!! Take photos so you can relive the experience.
15. Bring a portable battery - those long bus rides can be dreadful and not having music because your phone is dead is even worse. Which means you also need headphones!
16. Travel insurance is an investment worth investing in! Get robbed, covered. Get sick, covered. Miss a flight, covered. Loss baggage, covered. It is worth having! I ended up with a hospital bill of $6000 AUD because my insurance didn't cover after a period of time being away.
17. Bring warm clothes for an overnight bus ride. If you are going to a hot climate you'll think you won't need it however overnight bus rides are COLD. They crank that air conditioning.
18. Keep emergency cash on you. I know the fear of carrying cash is scary but if you can't find an ATM you'll be screwed. Just place it in different parts of your bag.
19. Save the money, stay in hostels. Here's a recent blog about my hostel experience. The Truth About Hostels.
20. Pack a flashlight, they are worth having. And PLEASE don't be that person who turns on the light in your hostel room at 5AM.
21. Save some money and cook your meals. Most hostels have kitchens and I know the joy of eating out is great, I love being wined and dined, however save your outings for once a week.
22. Get behind business men in security lines, they hustle. Avoid going behind families, they do not.
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