So, you’ve decided it’s finally time to take the plunge and plan your first international trip—how exciting! Whether you’re dreaming of strolling through the streets of Paris, indulging in pasta in Italy, or relaxing on a beach in Tahiti, your first trip abroad is one you’ll remember forever. But let’s be real, it can also feel a little intimidating. I totally get it! I remember my first time traveling internationally and feeling equal parts thrilled and anxious. But don’t worry—you’ve got this!
In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know as a first-time international traveler, from picking a destination to practical tips on passports, money, and packing. We’ll keep it simple, fun, and—most importantly—doable.
Step 1: Choosing Your First Destination for International Travel
The world is a big, beautiful place, so choosing where to go for your first international adventure can feel overwhelming. My advice? Start with destinations that are easy to navigate, welcoming to tourists, and rich with culture. Here are a few of my favorite suggestions for first-time travelers:
Paris & London
These two iconic European cities are perfect for your first trip abroad. You can easily visit both in one go (thanks to the Eurostar train), and each offers something totally unique. Imagine strolling through Paris, eating croissants by the Seine, then hopping over to London to catch a West End show. Plus, English is widely spoken in both, making them super beginner-friendly. Check out our detailed blog post HERE. It’s filled with everything you know to make your first European adventure a success!
Italy
If you’re a history buff or a fan of Italian food (who isn’t?!), Italy is an incredible choice. You can lose yourself wandering the ancient streets, visiting the Colosseum and Vatican City in Rome, getting lost around the canals of Venice, exploring Florence’s famous museums, and eating your weight in gelato. The cities in Italy are walkable and full of charm, and it’s easy to get around the country thanks to a great high-speed train system.
Tokyo
For something totally different, Tokyo is an amazing destination for first-timers with a taste for adventure. It’s clean, organized, and surprisingly easy to navigate. The contrast of ancient temples and futuristic skyscrapers will blow your mind. Plus, the food scene? Next-level.
Tahiti
If relaxing on a beach with crystal-clear water sounds like your perfect vacation, then Tahiti might be calling your name. While a bit more remote, it’s perfect for a slower, more laid-back first trip abroad. There’s less hustle and more hammock time!
Other Beginner-Friendly Destinations:
- Barcelona for art, beaches, and a laid-back Spanish vibe.
- Amsterdam for charming canals, rich history, and a bike-friendly city.
- Sydney if you’re craving a sunny destination with beaches and city life.
Step 2: Getting Your Passport
First things first—if you don’t have a passport, you’ll need one to travel internationally (obviously!). If you already have one, make sure it’s valid for at least six months past your travel dates—some countries are strict about this. Getting a passport can take up to 10 weeks, so plan ahead! Before you leave home, we recommend taking a photo of your passport with your phone.
Step 3: Booking Flights and Accommodations
When it comes to booking flights, start looking a few months in advance to snag the best deals. We use and love Jet Set Club. For just $59 a year, you’ll receive daily cheap flight alerts. We’ve booked Jet Set Club deals like $285 to Paris, $235 to Barcelona and $550 to Tahiti! We also like to utilize flight comparison sites like Google Flights or Skyscanner, and set up alerts for price drops.
We like to use a mix of Airbnb, boutique hotels, or hotel booking sites like Booking.com to find a place that fits my budget and style. For first-time international travelers, I recommend staying somewhere central. It might cost a little more, but being close to major sights makes exploring the city so much easier.
Step 4: Packing Like a Pro
Packing for your first trip abroad doesn’t have to be stressful. Keep it simple—lay out everything you think you need, and then put half of it back! Trust me, you won’t wear as much as you think. Stick to versatile, comfortable clothes that you can mix and match. And don’t forget the essentials:
- Travel adapters: Different countries use different plugs, so check what you’ll need for your destination.
- Comfortable shoes: You’ll likely be walking a lot, especially in cities like Paris or Rome.
- Travel insurance: It’s not glamorous, but it’s essential. Look for plans that cover health, cancellations, and lost luggage. We swear by Safety Wing and have used it for years. You can read about our experience with travel insurance here.
Step 5: Navigating Airports & Flights
The thought of navigating an international airport for the first time might seem daunting, but don’t worry! Here’s a tip: arrive early. International flights require a bit more time for check-in and security, so give yourself at least three hours before your departure time. Once you’re checked in and through security, relax! Grab a snack, find your gate, and get excited.
For long flights, bring a neck pillow, noise-canceling headphones, and download some podcasts or movies. Stay hydrated, and if you can, try to sleep. Here is our guide to surviving long-haul flights. When you land, be prepared for immigration and customs—just follow the signs and have your passport ready.
Step 6: Money & Currency Exchange
When you’re traveling internationally, you’ll need local currency. Most countries accept credit cards (especially major cities), but it’s still good to have cash on hand for small purchases, tips, or local markets. You can exchange currency at your destination or withdraw from local ATMs, which often offer the best exchange rates.
Before you go, let your bank know you’ll be traveling abroad to avoid any issues with your cards being blocked. Also, ask if your card has foreign transaction fees—if so, consider getting one that doesn’t.
Step 7: Getting Around
One of the best parts of international travel is figuring out how to get around like a local. In cities like Paris, London, and Tokyo, public transportation is super efficient. Grab a Metro pass in Paris, an Oyster card in London, or a Suica card in Tokyo to zip around easily.
For smaller towns or more remote destinations (like Tahiti), you might want to consider renting a car or taking guided tours to explore.
Step 8: Embrace the Unexpected
As much as I love planning, one of the best parts of international travel is the unexpected. Whether it’s getting lost in a winding street in Rome or discovering a hidden gem of a cafe in Tokyo, leave room in your itinerary for spontaneous adventures. You never know what surprises are waiting around the corner.
Final Tips for First-Time Travelers
- Language Barriers: Don’t stress if you don’t speak the local language. Learning a few key phrases (like “hello,” “please,” and “thank you”) goes a long way, and most major cities will have plenty of English speakers. Google Translate can be your best friend in a pinch!
- Cultural Etiquette: Take a few minutes to research the local customs and etiquette before you go. Simple things like knowing whether or not to tip (it’s not always expected in other countries!) or how to greet someone will help you feel more comfortable.
- Stay Safe: Keep copies of important documents (like your passport) and always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
And there you have it! Your first international trip will be an incredible adventure full of new sights, sounds, and experiences. It’s completely normal to feel a little nervous before you go, but once you’re out there exploring the world, you’ll realize how exciting and fulfilling travel can be.
Ready to take the plunge? Whether you’re starting with a week in Paris, a beach escape to Tahiti, or even exploring ancient temples in Tokyo, the world is waiting for you! And don’t worry, we’ll be here with you every step of the way—next up, we’ll dive into more detailed guides for each destination.
