Venturing into that big world out there can be exciting for younger people, especially if they haven’t traveled abroad.
As fun and exciting as exploring the globe may be, preparation is the key to enhancing your experiences from an enjoyment and safety perspective.
No country is completely safe no matter how developed it is, because things such as crimes and other unfortunate situations happen everywhere.
Of course, not every negative scenario can be avoided, no matter how well-prepared you are.
However, preparation can reduce the chances of experiencing bad situations.
If you’re a student that’s getting ready to travel, I highly encourage you to consider these twelve tips.
Let’s get moving…
1)) Bring A Valid Passport
Make sure you have a signed, valid passport and visas if required. Also, before you go, fill in the emergency information page of your passport.
Copy or scan your passport and email it to yourself, leave a copy with your family, and stick a copy in your wallet.
2)) Read Travel Announcements
Read the Consular Information Sheets (and Public Announcements or Travel Warnings, if applicable) for the countries you plan to visit.
Spend some time on the Internet doing a little research.
Keep a binder with important information, phone numbers, maps (cell service isn’t available everywhere), and anything else that will make your trip smoother.
3)) Register Your Trip With The Embassy
You could easily do this either online or upon arrival.
Leave copies of your itinerary, passport data page, and visas with family or friends at home, so that you can be contacted in case of an emergency.
Keep your host program informed of your whereabouts.
4)) Make Sure Your Immunizations Are Current
Check with the CDC website and make sure your immunizations are current for the country you are going to.
Make sure you have insurance that will cover your emergency medical needs (including medical evacuation) while you are overseas.
5)) Keep Out Of Jail
Study up on the local laws and customs of the countries to which you are traveling.
Remember, while in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws. You don’t want to spend one minute in jail.
Some countries are stricter than others and breaking their laws could land you in some serious trouble.
It could be expensive to hire a lawyer to help get you out of jail, especially in another country.
So, be on your best behavior and use common sense by respecting the laws.
6)) Be Responsible For Your Belongings
Travel light and do not leave your luggage unattended in public areas and never accept packages from strangers.
You don’t want to be the innocent mule carrying drugs.
7)) Study The Laws Of The Country You Will Be Visiting
While abroad, avoid using illicit drugs or drinking excessive amounts of alcoholic beverages, and associating with people who do.
You know the old saying, “Guilty by Association.”
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) doesn’t exist anywhere but in America.
So, once again respect the laws of the country where you’re traveling to.
8)) Don’t Dress In Flashy Clothing
Dress casually and don’t flaunt it – even if you got it. Do not become a target for thieves by wearing conspicuous clothing and expensive jewelry.
Do not carry excessive amounts of cash or unnecessary credit cards.
Crooks are always on the lookout for their next prey, so use common sense and avoid putting a bullseye on your back by keeping a low profile.
Your goal is to blend in with the locals as much as possible by not attracting attention to yourself.
9)) Only Use Authorized Agents To Exchange Money
Deal only with authorized agents when you exchange money to avoid violating local laws.
ATMs and official currency exchanges abound.
Debit cards are better than using credit cards.
10)) Avoid Areas Where There’s Civil Unrest
When overseas, avoid demonstrations and other situations that may become unruly or where anti-tourist sentiments may be expressed.
Keep away from the embassy at these times.
11)) Don’t Be A Target For Terrorists
Avoid wearing clothing that has things such as your country’s flag or name on them.
Be on the lookout for suspicious packages or people.
Be vigilant at all times.
12)) Check The Latest Air Travel Rules And Restrictions
Air travel rules can change at a moment’s notice, which is why you should check for the latest information before going on your journey.
The Internet makes this easy to do.
One of the most trusted websites to check for travel rules is TSA.gov.
PRO TIP: Ensure you carry copies of your prescriptions for any medications.
Related Article: 3 Ways To Learn About Air Travel Rules
Bonus Tip: Use A Travel Packing List
This entire article is based upon the importance of getting prepared before you go traveling.
Creating a travel packing list will help ensure you don’t forget critical items.
Purchasing things while traveling isn’t only inconvenient, but can be expensive.
Besides, who wants to go shopping for things such as an electric toothbrush or shaving cream after traveling for several hours?
Ways to create a checklist:
- Old-Fashion Pen and Paper
- Tablet
- Mobile App
- Printable Travel Packing List
Regardless of what you use to create a travel packing list, just be certain to make one.
Conclusion
I just covered 12 Travel Tips For Students that could help make their journeys easier and a lot less stressful.
The ongoing theme in this article has been centered on being prepared to help avoid legal issues, remain compliant, evade crime, and pack essential items.
At home, we tend to take things for granted because they are available on demand.
As I mentioned earlier, forgetting to pack simple items such as a toothbrush or shaving cream could really cause unnecessary stress and anxiety.
Because you’ll have to go shopping for items you already own and end up overpaying for them.
Not creating a travel packing list could cost you time and money.
If you’re a student that’s getting ready to do some traveling, implement these tips to help you plan for a trip whether traveling abroad or within your own country.
Have Fun On Your Journey And Be Safe!
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