7 Tips for Traveling to Europe for the First Time

Traveling to Europe for the first time is an exciting experience for everyone. There are tips and tricks you will need to keep in mind.

23:41 28 September 2023

Many dream of traveling to Europe, as it offers a breathtaking landscape of history, art, culture, and natural beauty. Despite how exciting it is, you should keep in mind that international travel can quickly get finicky when done without proper planning.

Whether you are making a road trip on the Romantic Road in Germany, food traveling in Hungary, or sightseeing on the Amalfi Coast in Italy, there are universal tips that apply to every European adventure. We have summarised seven of them in this article.

1. Do the paperwork ahead of time

If you plan to travel to multiple countries in Europe, you must know whether you require specific immigration documents, including everything related to the post-pandemic travel measures. You would not want to get stuck at the airport due to unresolved paperwork. 

2. Pack according to the season

The weather can vary significantly in Europe. When traveling in the winter, make sure that you bring thick coats and waterproof jackets. When traveling in the summer, carry lightweight clothes that you can layer accordingly. Different seasons will also affect the terrain you walk on, so you can always carry a pair of comfortable walking shoes just in case. To make it easier, you need to assemble an adjustable and versatile wardrobe

While leaving room to carry other essentials such as medications and documents, remember to leave room for souvenirs! You do not want to overpack even before starting your journey.

3. Always have cash on hand

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Europe. However, it is always a good idea to carry some local currency for small purchases. This is especially true if you plan to visit small towns where card payments are less common. You can still withdraw cash from ATMs, but be aware of potential fees and currency exchange rates. There are many tourist trap ATMs around, so choose an ATM that the locals usually use.

Remember that not all countries adopt the Euro as their official currency, so you can prepare ahead by having multiple currencies you may need.

4. Get yourself a reliable internet connection

When away from home, you will need a reliable means of communication. While you can always buy a local SIM card at the airport, opt for roaming, or rent a phone from your hotel, it is much simpler to get an eSIM. With a Europe eSIM, you can always enjoy seamless internet connections throughout your European travels.

Getting a Europe eSIM is also easier than purchasing physical SIM card since it can be easily downloaded onto your device and activated remotely. This means you can activate it at home prior to your flight and hit the ground immediately upon your arrival.

An eSIM is also more cost-effective than roaming since you can access data, make calls, and send text messages across the border without fear of racking up hefty fees.

5. Learn basic phrases

English is widely spoken in Europe, but it doesn’t hurt to learn a few basic phrases in the local language of the countries you will be visiting.

Using basic phrases in the local language can be helpful to connect with the locals. They will appreciate it when travelers make the effort to communicate in their language, even if it's just a simple "hello" or "thank you.".

Aside from showing respect for their culture, you can use the basic phrases to ask for directions, order food and beverages, and purchase souvenirs.

6. Stay safe

Europe is generally a safe region for travelers. But you must always stay aware of your surroundings, especially when visiting popular tourist destinations. Keep an eye on your belongings, use secure luggage locks, and be cautious in crowded areas to avoid pickpockets. 

Tourists should also be aware of tourist scams that often happen in popular destinations. Be careful when receiving objects from strangers. Also, research the local emergency numbers and embassy contacts in case you need assistance.

7. Enjoy the journey

Traveling to Europe for the first time is an exciting experience for anyone. You will open your eyes to a part of the world's history, art, and culture. 

Remember that travel is about experiencing new cultures and making lasting memories. You wouldn't want to rush from one attraction to another. Take the time to soak in the local atmosphere, engage with locals, and savor the moments. Capture photographs to share your journey later, but do not forget to put your camera or phone down occasionally and fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Europe.