By Look, nobody’s born a travel expert. We all start off as those wide-eyed, overpacked, underprepared tourists who get scammed five minutes after landing. But you? You can do better. Here are 30 brutally honest travel tips to help you survive the world without looking like a complete amateur.
1. Pack a Towel.
You never know when you’ll need to dry off, sit on something gross, or cry into it when you miss your flight.
2. Use a Small Bag.
If you bring a giant suitcase, you’ll fill it with junk you don’t need. Then you’ll regret it while hauling it up six flights of stairs in a hotel with no elevator.
3. Pack Light.
Take half the clothes you think you need. Then remove one more thing. You’re not starring in a fashion show.
4. Bring Extra Socks.
Because your socks will disappear faster than your motivation to find cheap flights.
5. Stay in Hostels.
Cheap, full of interesting people, and they usually have a bar. Just be prepared for snoring strangers.
6. Carry a Backup Credit Card.
Because when your bank inevitably locks your card for “suspicious activity,” you’ll still need to eat.
7. Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees.
Banks love charging you for using your own money. Get a no-fee travel card and keep your cash for actual fun.
8. Don’t Fly Direct.
If you don’t mind layovers in questionable airports, you can save a ton on flights.
9. Travel Alone at Least Once.
You’ll learn self-reliance and won’t have to argue with anyone about where to eat.
10. Use the Local Tourism Office.
They have free maps, discounts, and the patience to deal with lost tourists like you.
11. Take Free Walking Tours.
You get a history lesson and a workout. Plus, they’re free—just tip the guide so they don’t hate you.
12. Use a Map.
Wandering cluelessly through an unknown city is how people end up in those news stories.
13. But Also Get Lost on Purpose.
Some of the best spots aren’t on Google Maps. Just, you know, maybe have a way to find your way back.
14. Ask Hostel Staff for Local Tips.
Even if you’re not staying there. They know where the cheap food and beer is.
15. Sign Up for Flight Deals.
Why pay full price for a flight when you can let an algorithm do the hard work?
16. Ditch the Money Belt.
Nothing screams “ROB ME” louder than wearing a giant pouch under your shirt.
17. Carry a Small Lock.
Not for your luggage—because let’s be real, nobody wants your dirty socks—but for hostel lockers.
18. Make Copies of Important Documents.
Because losing your passport in a foreign country is peak stress.
19. Learn Basic Local Phrases.
At least enough to order food and ask for a bathroom.
20. Read a History Book.
Because understanding why you’re standing in front of a famous landmark makes it more interesting.
21. Go Ahead, Walk Into McDonald’s.
Free WiFi and bathrooms. You don’t have to eat there… but we both know you probably will.
22. Avoid Airport Security Lines with Families.
Kids + luggage + confused parents = you missing your flight.
23. Ask for a Hotel Upgrade.
Be nice and they just might give you a better room. Doesn’t hurt to ask.
24. Write Stuff Down.
Because your brain will forget the name of that amazing restaurant.
25. Visit Tourist Spots at Lunchtime.
While everyone else is eating, you get the place to yourself.
26. Walk Five Blocks Away from Tourist Areas Before Eating.
Unless you like overpriced, terrible food.
27. Grocery Shop Occasionally.
Eating out every night drains your wallet fast.
28. Pack a Power Bank.
Because your phone will die at the worst possible moment.
29. Take Photos of People, Not Just Buildings.
Because years later, you’ll want to remember the friends you made—not just the statue you forgot the name of.
30. Wear Sunscreen.
Unless you enjoy looking like a lobster.
Follow these tips and you’ll be slightly less of a travel disaster. Safe travels! 🚀