The Inexperienced Traveler: Going on Vacation for the First Time

You have scoured the tourist guides and the Internet. You've discovered every little nook and cranny that your vacation destination has to offer. As a first time vacation traveler, you don't want to miss a thing. You have uncovered everything you will do on your trip and have added it to your itinerary. The problem is, this behavior may create disappointment later.

The fear of missing something forces many travelers to pack their vacation schedule so full that they are missing the whole reason they were traveling to begin with. The fear of not living up to other's expectations can also lead down the same path. Remember, for whatever reason you are going on vacation, the journey is yours.

Many inexperienced travelers face the same dilemma as some do when they are too hungry at the all-you-can-eat Sunday buffet, their eyes grow and they load up that plate, never being able to eat all that food. Filling your itinerary with activities, cramming it with barely doable goals does nothing but pile on stress and exhaustion.

There is however a short list of precautions to be aware of before traveling. The planning and the moments that lead up to the trip are the most exciting of all. A plane ticket, a pocket full of money and the unknown adventure that lies ahead. In all of your excitement, put a short three step checklist in your head. Its only three steps because, well, what do you really need?

All you really need is your money, the plane ticket (or other tickets you have pre-purchased) and your passport if your traveling out of the country. Everything else is pretty much replaceable, even if there is a little inconvenience. You should carry your money in three different ways, traveler's cheques, cash, and a credit card. Keep these forms of money in different locations or different places on your person.

Traveler's cheques are probably the least popular anymore. They are becoming harder and harder to cash. They are still very good because they can be replaced if lost, so you should have some of your money on traveler's cheques, especially for your protection.

You should always carry three to five U.S. one-hundred dollar bills for emergencies. The U.S. Dollar is the most widely accepted form of currency in exchange for local currencies. Carry local currency as well. Depending on your budget and the amount of money you plan on spending, fifty dollars in local currency should be okay. Keep this in your wallet or pocket, separate from your emergency money.

Carry a major credit card. For traveling abroad, the American Express Card is probably the best. It is accepted at more world-wide locations than any other card company. Of course Visa and Mastercard are also accepted nearly everywhere. It is critical that you are carrying a credit card that can be easily replaced and with a company that will assist you in the event your credit card is lost or stolen. Debit cards should be avoided while traveling. They do not necessarily have the same protection as a credit card and they are typically attached to your bank account. Leave the debit cards at home or in the hotel safe.

Whether for business or pleasure, make your travels a memorable adventure. Get off the beaten path and out of the hotel. Plan less, give yourself time to relax and enjoy the local culture, food, and people. Do not worry about what other, more experienced travelers think you should do. This is your trip and you should take it at your pace, enjoying local culture, cuisine and people. Your memories will not be of hotels and museums, they will be about the chances you took, the unplanned detours and the excitement of meeting new people.