Fun fact: I’ve only traveled solo
Crazy, right!? My first time out of the United States was to China completely by myself knowing just enough Mandarin to get by. This experience made me fearless, and I’ve continued to travel to a new country each year since (yes, still by myself - in need of travel buddies!).
Through my journeys, here are the top 10 things I wish I knew prior to take-off:
1. Absolutely nothing should stop you from traveling anywhere you want
I scheduled my trip to China without my parents knowing, giving them less than a month’s notice. I was so afraid of them telling me not to go, that I took the risk. They were not very happy. But once I showed them my research and steps I was willing to take to prepare for this journey, they had no choice but to let me go. I know it sounds insane, but I promise you I was very safe. I met up with a friend halfway through my trip and we traveled all throughout China. It was incredible! After seeing how much fun I had, my parents ended up looking at flights to China themselves! Don’t let ANYONE tell you no, because this is an opportunity of a lifetime.
2. Traveling can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be!
I am definitely not a huge spender on trips. How can I be!? I was a broke college student for 4 years but still wanted to find ways to travel. There are so many videos and resources you can utilize - just ask your college! You can find so many hacks online and through advisors. Save as much as you can too! (Hint: sometimes your scholarships will transfer over to your bank account or study abroad programs. Just ask your advisor!)
3. Pack LIGHT - you don’t need your whole wardrobe, but pack SMART
This is the most difficult skill to master and I am STILL figuring this out. However, I’ve watched several packing videos and have done so much research on what to wear in different countries that it makes it easier to pack! You can always re-wear outfits or do laundry in other countries and they often have toiletries for you there! Just make sure you are prepared with extra copies of your passport, printed maps to your hotel/AirBnB, a jacket, converters, etc.
4. Conduct research beforehand but don’t be afraid to explore outside your itinerary
It’s easy to get lost, especially if you have limited time in a new country. It’s best to prioritize what you want to see/do and then go from there! But, don’t be afraid to branch out. You never know what activities may arise that are not listed on your itinerary.
5. Step out of your comfort zone
Whether you learn a new language or chat with the locals, don’t be afraid to try something new and step out of your comfort zone in new countries! This is the best way to learn and make new friends!
6. Document your journey
One of my favorite things to do - not just pictures, but I bring a journal and jot down my experiences as I go. I also record voice memos and videos with friends! 10/10 recommend documenting your journey as you go. (Bonus: save your train/bus tickets for journals/scrapbooks/memories!)
7. Some of the best places to visit aren’t always the most “popular”
I traveled to Portugal on my own (outside of study abroad) and most people I’ve chatted with have not considered going there. Portugal (specifically Lisbon) is my favorite place in the world! You never know what you might find by traveling to a place that isn’t as “touristy”. Take the road less traveled!
8. Remember that everyone’s experiences are different
Studying abroad isn’t ALWAYS glamorous. It’s a huge adjustment, especially if you’re there for months on end. In England, it was very rainy which drastically dropped my mood since I no longer had lots of sunshine like I do in Arizona. I had to adjust to this and recognize that it wasn’t just me - this affects a lot of people! You might have some “off” days or a different experience than others, but that’s totally okay! That’s what life is about and I had some of my best learning experiences from those “off” days when traveling. (Note: It’s okay to stay in on your study abroad trip, you don’t always have to be moving. Don’t forget to rest!)
9. Don’t have any expectations
Going into a study abroad experience completely open-minded and curious is the best thing you can do for yourself. It’ll make the journey far more enjoyable and you’ll learn so much as you go!
10. Have fun and do what makes you happy/interests you!
This right here is exactly what studying abroad/traveling is all about.
I’ve learned so much throughout my travels, but these are my top 10 lessons that I wish I knew prior. I’ll leave the rest up to you to learn! Best of luck on your travels and have the most amazing time!
Written by Maddie Furnas, Your College Bestie Exclusive
Maddie travels the world to interview people she meets throughout her adventures, Getting Global.
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