15 things I learnt, from 15 countries, in 15 months

1. Travel Insurance

Probably seems like an obvious one but the number of times you’ve probably travelled without travel insurance that is valid would surprise you. As a student I’m guilty of often going for the cheapest one on a comparison website, but often that won’t actually cover me fully.

2. Share your locations

Not only does this help if you’re travelling with others and want to figure out where they are (especially helpful on nights out) but it’s also reassuring for friends/family back home. It’s just one simple way to stay safer when travelling at no extra hassle.

3. Recent Backups

Similar to sharing your locations for safety regularly backing up your device is also super useful for if anything gets misplaced/lost/stolen. Having a recent backup means that all the photos/data and apps won’t be lost. Also, if you’re like me and super forgetful, it’s one less thing to worry about!

4. Keeping track of your travels

Whilst it might not be the top of your agenda, you won’t regret keeping track of your travels! Whether that be through vlogging, blogging, journaling or however you fancy. I found an app called Journi that worked really well for me and was also a platform my friends and family could follow to keep them involved in my travel updates! I also copied a friend and started collecting fridge magnets from all the cities I visited which was another cute way to look back (and a great conversation starter too!)

5. Budgeting

I’ve never been great at maths but ensuring you’ve got a realistic plan and budget for your travels is essential. One thing I sometimes forget to account for as well is emergency money, you never know when you might need a last-minute taxi to make a flight, a deposit on storage or other late notice essentials.

6. Cheap Travel Options

One way I’ve been able to see so much of Europe whilst also studying in Germany has been low budget travel options. Whilst I know it’s not for everyone, I’ve stuck to staying in hostels and travelling on buses. FlixBus/FlixTrain has been great for me, but I also know Bla Bla Car and Interrail passes have helped my friends save money as well!

7. Engage in the local culture

Wherever you go there will be opportunities to engage and learn from the people and places around you! It goes without saying, but make sure to stay respectful of the cultures you engage with. As a student make sure to also have a valid student ID with you as lots of activities including museums and tourist attractions have discounted prices.

8. Always read the reviews

You’ll save yourself a lot of time whether this be for an attraction, a hostel or restaurant (anything really). I’ve also found whenever I have time, it’s great practice to leave a review. Not only does this help future travellers but it also helps the company get the praise they deserve!

9. Pack for the Occasion

Make sure you pack for the occasion: having a versatile wardrobe is great when you’ve got restricted room to pack. Sunny skies in the day and then severe thunderstorms at night have caught me out one too many times!

10. Being aware of your surroundings

One of the best ways to stay safe and alert is having a rough idea of where you are and where you’re going. I found apps like Maps.me where you can download a map to use when you don’t have data or signal were super useful. Double check before you travel if your phone contract covers you as well, so you don’t rack up expensive roaming charges. Before you go, it is important to check the Government Foreign Travel Advice and sign up to email alerts so you don’t need to be checking it regularly leading up to the trip and will be automatically notified if the advice changes.

11. Make copies (digital and physical)

Have copies of everything, whether that be boarding passes, travel insurances, booking confirmations and share them with who you’re travelling with or someone back home. It not only saves the unnecessary stress but also covers you if anything goes wrong and you need quick and easy access to important documents.

12. Social Opportunities

Travelling can be such a great way to meet new people! That being said you don’t need to get swept into having to be “on” 24/7. Your social battery will need time to recharge and also spending time alone doing what you want is just as important. Everyone is different and will have different preferences when travelling so do what works best for you.

13. Check your travel documents

Make sure your visa covers you. In lots of places, you’ll need to get a country specific visa or will have a limited time to travel in that country. For example, in the EU and Schengen area there are restrictions on travel as a UK citizen.

14. You’re not alone

Travelling can be a super exciting and an incredible opportunity BUT remember that you’re not alone. There is always someone who will be out there ready to listen, offer guidance or support. If you find yourself in a space needing mental health support check out IAMAT for advice on travel and mental health. A quick search into google for online and helpline resources can also get you to the right services and support for you! Also remember that just because you are away from home, don’t let that stop you from reaching out to those close to you. Even a 20-minute phone call catch up can go a long way in reminding yourself you’re not alone.

If you find yourself in urgent trouble and need some help in relation to situations like hospitalisation or victims of crime, GOV.UK offers support for british nationals abroad. If you’re not a British citizen check your Government’s website for specific advice.

15. Have fun

Enjoy your time and make some memories. One rule I like to follow (and not just when travelling) is to always do 3 nice things for yourself every day. It can be something small like buying a nice coffee, treating yourself to that touristy trip or taking the time for an afternoon nap after a busy day! Everyone is different and looking out for yourself whilst having fun makes travelling so much more sustainable and worthwhile!

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my post. I’ve honestly had such an incredible time travelling over my Part I Study Abroad and can’t wait to see where my next destination is after I graduate! If you have any questions feel free to reach out to me at a.brown-stark-20@student.lboro.ac.uk or on my LinkedIn.
Safe travels!