Traveling for the first time can be a bit overwhelming. Where do you even start? What if you’re anxious about going to a new place? These are all valid concerns that any new traveler may have. In this article, we will go over 3 pitfalls to avoid when choosing where to travel for the first time.
Not knowing your destination enough.
We understand the allure of diving into the unknown and choosing a location based on what you see online or on social media. You are more than likely seeing only a snippet of one’s experience and not getting the full picture. This is why we recommend that you first do your research.
What does research consist of?
Thoroughly browsing Google or Pinterest for information on your destination. You can also gather ideas from those who’ve done it before. Feeling confident? Send a DM to the influencer or person who visited the city or country of your choice. This way you can get some insight and any other information necessary that will make or break your decision.
Most importantly, the geography of your destination should be taken into account especially if you have any health conditions that could cause any physical, mental, or emotional limitations. Your health and safety are most important and that should be a priority during the decision-making phase of your trip. Be prepared as much as possible so that you won’t be surprised when your flight lands.
Ready to research your destination? Start Here and Here!
Being Indecisive
Being decisive and organized will help curve any possibility of something going wrong. Is there a guarantee that nothing will go wrong? Nope. Yet, preparation brings about confidence. The more confident you feel on your trip, the more risks you can take and the memories you can make.
If it helps, as a first-time solo traveler, you can do anything you want. You won’t have to take into consideration other people’s opinions, therefore you can stick to your gut and intuition and choose what’s best for YOU!
In the case that you’re traveling with people then you guys can collectively come up with a plan that you can stick to. It can be a good idea to assign someone to be the decision-maker if you’re still building up your travel confidence.
Restricting yourself too much
Being flexible and being prepared aren’t mutually exclusive. You can be both. Sometimes, you may find that the best way to travel is to be flexible. When traveling for the first time, it’s important not to restrict yourself too much. You’re learning on the go and that’s fine. How do you think we got to where we are on our travel journey?
Just be open-minded and see what feels right. Wherever your intuition takes you will most likely be a great experience! And, if it’s not, then guess what?? You’ve lived and learned. Next time, you’ll know what to do differently, right?
Lastly, be in the moment and enjoy your first trip. This trip is for you, so be kind to yourself, give yourself grace, and have a bomb-ass time!
Now that you know the 3 unnecessary pitfalls when choosing to travel for the first time, take your time choosing where to travel.
Go at your own pace and don’t be discouraged by the world. Instead, welcome this opportunity to learn what the world has to offer.
As a first-time traveler, adventure is at your fingertips. Make sure you do the correct research on your destination, focus on being decisive to make your trip memorable, and limiting yourself. This is your time!
Also Read: 10 Ways Travel Can Improve Your Self-Confidence