“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” ― Mark Twain
So you’d like to set off on your first adventure through the world! How exciting. You might feel a slight anxiety and sense of dread too, this is normal. Planning a trip can be difficult but we want to help!
This quick read will help you save time, money, and stress when planning your first adventure.
Whether you’re planning your first solo trip or a group trip away, this guide will help you cover all bases so you have less regrets and more fun!
It starts with deciding where you want to go.
1. Choosing your destination
The world is a diverse and beautiful place, with cities, seaside towns, festivals, national parks, and so much more to delight every kind of adventurer. With so many options, narrowing it down to just one place can be tricky. Maybe you already know where you want to go. But if you don’t, we recommend you define the goal of your trip and choose a destination that can fulfil this goal. This way, you'll be sure to return home with a full heart—and a full camera roll.
Whether you’re dreaming of a relaxing poolside escape to recharge, festival-hopping through Europe to meet new friends, or embarking on a culinary adventure to inspire your cooking at home, there’s a unique adventure for everyone and (cheesy as it sounds) the only limit is your imagination.
To make the decision easier, here are a few key factors to keep in mind:
Time and Distance: Think about how much time you have for your trip and how far you're willing to travel. For instance, a Londoner with a couple of days annual leave/vacation to take might want to stay within a 2-3 hour flight radius so as not to spend too much time travelling. They might explore places like Florence, Paris, or Galway. Meanwhile, a Londoner who has more annual leave or vacation days won’t mind long-haul flights as much. This person might opt to relax poolside for a 10+ day getaway in Cabo or Bali.
Travel Seasons: Timing is everything. Some destinations have peak tourist seasons where prices skyrocket and crowds can overwhelm even the most stunning sites. Travelling during the off-season can often save you money, give you more space to enjoy the attractions, and offer a more authentic experience. For example, Italy is bustling in summer, but visiting in spring or Autumn brings milder weather and fewer tourists.
Get familiar with public transportation in your destination.
Local Transportation: If you’re on a budget, how you get around is just as important as how you get there. Consider whether the destination has reliable public transportation, or if you'll need to rent a car (or bike) to explore. For example, European cities like Paris and Berlin are known for their excellent public transit, while rural or more remote areas may require your own set of wheels. Spend some time getting familiar with the transit system. It could save you a fortune in taxis, Uber, and car rentals.
Local Experiences: Check if your potential destination is hosting any local festivals, markets, or cultural events during your travel dates. These events offer a unique window into local life, adding an extra dimension to your trip. Picture yourself dancing through the streets of Barcelona or enjoying fresh wine at a harvest festival in Tuscany—unique experiences that will make your trip unforgettable.
Practical Considerations: Before locking in your destination, think about logistics like visa requirements, language barriers, phone connectivity, and safety. Some places might require a visa application in advance, while others may need you to brush up on key phrases in the local language. Doing a little research will help ensure a smooth trip, free of last-minute surprises.
2. Setting a realistic budget
One of the most important aspects of planning a trip is creating a budget that allows you to completely enjoy your adventure without breaking the bank. This does not imply skimping on experiences, but rather making informed judgements to stretch your money as far as possible.
Begin by estimating your key expenses: airfare, lodging, meals, and activities.
Flights are sometimes the most expensive part of a trip, so check out online comparison services like Skyscanner or Google Flights for discounts. If your dates are flexible, look for flights on weekdays, which are frequently less expensive than weekends. Set up price alerts to be notified when costs drop, and consider travelling from nearby airports if it saves you money.
Accommodation is your next big expense. Hotels can be a great option if you are looking for a full-service experience or hostels are great for an affordable option. Booking.com is great for comparing options, but you can often find deals by booking directly with hotels. Google Maps is also a powerful tool for locating accommodation in preferred neighbourhoods.
Airbnb is also extremely popular. This website/app connects travellers with unique lodging options such as entire homes, private rooms, and distinctive stays, providing a more personalised, local experience.
And don’t overlook less traditional options like house-sitting, which can get you free accommodation in exchange for pet or home care, or couch surfing for a more immersive, local experience.
For food, you won’t be able to meal prep in most hotel situations, but in all other accommodation types you could try a mix of dining out and preparing your own meals. Street food and local eateries are often much cheaper than restaurants aimed at tourists (we call these tourist traps), and you’ll likely get a more authentic taste of the local culture. If you’re staying somewhere with kitchen access (hostel, airbnb), hit up a local market for fresh ingredients. This not only saves money but adds a unique cultural experience to your trip.
Lastly, consider the cost of activities. There are plenty of free or low-cost things to do, like local festivals, walking tours, or national parks. Search Google and social media for websites, blogs, vlogs, community forums, and more for insider tips on the best budget-friendly experiences.
Hostels offer excellent value if you don't mind sharing a room.
3. Booking flights
When it comes to making travel plans, timing is crucial. For overseas travel, we advise booking flights three to six months in advance because costs increase as departure dates approach. Domestic flights can be booked one to three months in advance. Look through airfare comparison apps and websites like Momondo, Kayak, and Skyscanner to get the best offers.
(Pro tip: When looking for flights, don't forget to erase your cookies or use an incognito window because websites occasionally increase costs based on your browser history.)
Another suggestion would be to take a midweek flight. The cheapest days to fly are frequently Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Significant savings can also be found on flights operated at less convenient hours or on red-eye trips. To take advantage of flash bargains, you may also subscribe to airline newsletters and flight deal notifications. You’ll also find content creators on social media that post about flight discounts and package deals (flight + accommodation, etc.)
4. Booking accommodation
Once you’ve got your flights sorted, it’s time to book accommodation. This is one area where you can customise your experience based on your preferences and budget. For solo travellers or those who love meeting new people, hostels are a great choice, and you can prepare your own meals in the communal kitchen. Platforms like Hostelworld or Booking.com offer a wide range of options, from budget rooms to more private accommodations.
For those seeking a bit more comfort, hotels or Airbnb can offer a more private and often luxurious experience. If you’re travelling with a group, renting a home or apartment on Airbnb can also help save costs, as you’ll have space to share and the ability to cook your own meals.
Pro tip: Look for accommodations just outside the tourist hotspots. You’ll still be close enough to explore the city but for a cheaper price.
5. Organising connectivity
Staying connected while travelling is essential for many, whether for navigation, staying in touch with loved ones, or just sharing your amazing experiences. Let’s break down your options:
Travel SIM Card: While widely available, buying a travel SIM card often means hunting down a local store and physically swapping your SIM card, which can be inconvenient. You also lose access to your home number temporarily.
Data Roaming: Most of us know the dangers here—exorbitant fees and unpredictable bills. If you can avoid data roaming, do so.
Wi-Fi: This might seem like a good option, but depending on Wi-Fi alone can leave you disconnected at key moments, especially if you’re exploring more remote areas. Furthermore, public Wi-Fi networks can often be insecure and put your data at risk.
eSIM: This is a game changer in terms of convenience. eSIM technology is transforming the way we stay connected abroad. With a travel eSIM, there’s no need to physically swap SIM cards when you land in a new country. It’s a digital SIM that you can download and activate remotely, right from your phone, giving you instant connectivity from the moment you reach your destination. And it’s prepaid too. That means no contract and zero roaming charges!
6. Planning your itinerary
After deciding on a location, the next step is to create your itinerary. Even though it would be tempting to jam as many must-see locations as possible into each day, it's crucial to strike a balance between leisure and sightseeing. After all, the most enjoyable aspects of travelling are frequently the unplanned discoveries made when you take your time. An unplanned day at a neighbourhood café or a trip through a secret street market should be included in your agenda.
When planning, there are lots of tools available to keep you organised. You may organise your days and schedule related attractions in advance with apps like Google Maps, which can help you save time. If you want to get creative, you can make mood boards for your vacation, or discover hidden gems with the help of Pinterest and Instagram. Just keep in mind that a decent itinerary leaves some room for spontaneity.
7. Preparing essential documents
Before you get too swept up in excitement, make sure your travel documents are in order. This includes your boarding passes (digital, physical, or both), passport, visas (if needed), travel insurance, and any other required paperwork, like a driver’s licence if you plan to rent a car. It’s always a good idea to print out hard copies of these documents and keep them in a secure place, just in case you run into any issues with your phone or internet access. Make sure you have your travel documents in an easy-to-reach spot.
As for packing, start with the essentials—clothing appropriate for the climate (like a raincoat for Ireland or a bathing suit for the Caribbean), a comfortable pair of shoes, toiletries, and chargers for your devices. A common mistake many travellers make is forgetting to pack universal adapters, especially if you’re travelling to a region with different electrical outlets. Keep a packing list handy to ensure you don’t leave anything behind.
8. Packing tips
Packing for a trip can feel like a daunting task, but the key is to be strategic. Lay out everything you think you’ll need and then halve it. Seriously. Most of us tend to overpack, and more often than not, we don’t use half of what we bring. Consider the weather, the length of your trip, and any specific activities planned, and pack accordingly. Versatile clothing that you can mix and match is your best friend.
Essentials like travel-sized toiletries, a good travel pillow, and a reusable water bottle are must-haves. It’s also smart to pack a small first-aid kit with things like band-aids, pain relievers, and any prescription medications you need. As for the things people commonly forget? Chargers, headphones, sunscreen, and a backup credit card are often left behind, so double-check your list before you leave.
Pro tip: Packing cubes are fantastic for maximising space.
9. Staying safe while travelling
Travel is full of excitement, but safety should always be a priority. Before you leave, check if any vaccinations or health precautions are required for your destination. It’s also smart to invest in travel insurance that covers both medical and non-medical emergencies, giving you peace of mind in case something unexpected happens.
Research local public transit options before you arrive so you feel confident getting around, and always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas. One great tip is to keep copies of your important documents saved digitally and physically so that if something goes wrong, you have backups.
Lastly, respect the local customs and culture of wherever you are visiting. A little research goes a long way in ensuring that you’re not only staying safe but also being respectful to your hosts. Staying connected is crucial too—having a travel eSIM means you’re always just a quick Google search away from nearby medical services or directions back to your hotel. You can relax and enjoy your trip knowing that you have the tools to stay safe and healthy.
We hope you found this guide helpful in planning your first trip. So, go, pack light, stay connected, and always take the scenic route.
