With the rise of low-cost airlines, cross-country trains and long-distance bus rides, travelling has become far more accessible than it once was.
It’s almost become a rite of passage in the West; many students take a gap year after their A-Levels and spend time working and travelling in various locations before deciding to settle down and attend university.
It’s also a great way for families or solo travellers to experience the world and discover new cultures, cuisines and languages.
But visiting a country and culture so alien to your own also means you might run into some culture shocks or social norms that you’re not used to… so let’s discuss and find out which faux-pas to avoid!
- Disrespecting Local Cultures and Traditions
Have you ever encountered tourists in your home country who seemed rude or disrespectful?
It’s really important to show respect for the local customs and traditions when you’re travelling abroad. If you don’t, it can leave a bad impression on the people there and reflect poorly on where you come from.
Stereotypes may be just that – stereotypes – but they often leave locals feeling sour. Amsterdam, for instance, has recently felt the sting of this issue, going as far as advising British men to “stay away”.
To make sure you’re not being culturally insensitive, it’s a good idea to look up the local customs and proper behaviour before you go. Pay attention to how you act and what you wear.
Make sure to find out what kinds of clothes are appropriate or expected, and learn about any dietary and religious considerations to keep in mind during your travels.
- Neglecting Safety Precautions
Exploring new destinations is always an exciting adventure, but remember, staying safe should always be at the top of your list.
It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement, but stay vigilant even when you’re in areas that feel secure. Always keep your personal items close, steer clear of lonely spots after dark, and if something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut – it’s often your best guide.
If you’re visiting local sights, respect the local rules: don’t be one of those tourists who stand over the ledge or cross into restricted areas. You’re not only putting your life at risk, but also the lives of others.
- Overpacking
Okay, this one is a little different… but while it’s tempting to pack everything you might need, overpacking can be a burden.
Carrying heavy bags and suitcases not only weighs you down – it also makes it much more tedious to move through airports, use public transport, and manoeuvre through busy spaces. Pack only what you need and travel light, you’ll thank yourself for it!
- Failing to Research Your Destination
To have a great trip without any issues, you wanna make sure you do some research on the local customs prior to your arrival. Make sure you:
- Learn about the local culture and laws of the place you’re going to.
- Know the do’s and don’ts to avoid disrespect or breaking any rules.
- Stay informed about safety to keep out of trouble.
- Find out which vaccines or medications you should take with you.
By doing your homework, you can avoid any unpleasant surprises, stay safe, and even make a fantastic impression on the locals. It’s even better when you learn a couple words in the local language!
- Neglecting Travel Insurance
When you’re off exploring new places, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and forget that sometimes, things can go awry.
Imagine: your luggage goes on an adventure of its own, you eat something that doesn’t sit well, or a sudden storm means you can’t even start your journey. These are the kinds of speed bumps that can not only dampen your spirits but also hit your wallet… hard.
This is where smart planning pays off. Before you depart, look into purchasing a solid travel insurance. It’s your financial safety net, ensuring that a lost suitcase or a stomach bug doesn’t turn your dream vacation into a financial nightmare.
With the right coverage, you can rest easy knowing that you’re protected against life’s little (or big) travel hiccups. After all, peace of mind is the ultimate travel companion.
- Overspending and Mismanaging Finances
Going on holiday and travelling, in general, can be quite the hit to your wallet. To keep from spending too much, make a budget that fits how much you can really spend and stick to it strictly.
To save even more, cut out any unnecessary spending and watch out for hidden charges that can add up without you noticing, like sneaky ATM fees and changes in money exchange rates that you might not pay attention to.
You definitely don’t want to end up penniless while abroad!
- Neglecting Your Health
Okay, we already briefly mentioned that you should check up on the necessary health measures before travelling, right?
Travel itself can also take it out of you, both body and mind. If you don’t look after yourself, skipping sleep, eating poorly and ignoring health advice, your trip could easily go off the rails.
Look after your health: Get plenty of sleep, drink lots of water, and stick to health recommendations. Check your government instructions regarding things like drinking tap water, eating raw fruits and vegetables or other local produce.
- Ignoring Local Laws and Regulations
Each country has its own rules, and not knowing them isn’t a good enough reason for not following them. Make sure you learn about the laws of the place you’re visiting before you go, especially those about taking pictures, what to wear, and how to act in public.
If you don’t, you could get fined, get into legal problems, or worse: be locked up. Getting involved in things like drugs or other illegal actions can cause big problems and spoil your trip. You could even end up in prison.
And whether you were aware of the laws or not, they still apply. The Home Office won’t necessarily be able to help you out.
Be especially careful when travelling to countries suffering from censorship: always use a VPN (read more info to understand how it works) and be careful what sites you access as well as what you post on social media.
- Failing to Secure Important Documents
Misplacing key documents like your passport or insurance details can be extremely stressful when you’re abroad. Make sure to look after them and have a spare copy or an electronic backup, just in case.
But it’s not just accidental loss you have to worry about – theft can also be a problem. Your best bet is to never leave it in the reach of anyone else, even housekeepers or fellow hostel guests. Useful tricks include sewing an inner pocket on the inside of your trousers or keeping it in a safe.
Steering clear of these nine common travel mistakes will help make your trip go as smoothly and safely as possible. Enjoy the local culture, interact with the locals and come back as a fresh new person!
Luciana joined our team as a mum blogger in 2020. A dedicated mum to a lively daughter and a dog, Luna, Luciana brings authenticity and passion to every post. Her expertise in parenting and lifestyle topics offers practical, relatable advice for real-life situations.