Are you going to Europe for the first time? From securing your travel documents to getting your boyfriend's eSIM for Europe, check out our tips to make your trip a breeze.
If you're traveling to Europe for the first time, you'll find these tips helpful to ensure a safer and smoother trip. After all, there are so many places to visit on this continent that traveling can seem a little overwhelming. There are several things you need to sort out before traveling to Europe, but here are some of the most important elements you need to prepare.
1. Keep your travel documents safe
The documents required to gain access to Europe vary depending on the country of departure and destination. In addition to a passport, you may also need a visa. Therefore, please check with your embassy whether you need to obtain an ETIAS travel authorization or a Schengen visa.
The ETIAS travel authorization is granted to individuals who can travel to Europe without a visa. On the other hand, people who do not qualify for ETIAS travel authorization will need a Schengen visa to enter the 27 countries that make up the Schengen Area. You can figure it out yourself or find an agent who offers European travel packages that include visa formalities.
2. Understand European currencies
Deciding where to go in Europe can be a daunting task, as there are multiple countries within the continent. At the same time, you should also check the different currencies of a particular region. Please note that the euro is the official currency of 20 of the 27 member countries of the European Union. However, other currencies may also be used depending on the country you are visiting.
- british pound
- czech crown
- hungarian forint
- iceland krona
- polish zloty
3. Create a packing list
One of the unspoken rules when traveling in Europe is to pack light. You'll likely be using public transportation to get to your destination, but carrying around heavy luggage can be a hassle.
So, let's write down the things you'll need for your trip.
To optimize your packing, you can also focus on taking out fewer items than you need. For example, if the travel package is going to last him more than a week, pack clothing that will last him for a week. You can wash what you brought and wear it again. You might even make some new friends at your local laundromat.
4. Contact your credit card company
Before traveling to Europe, be sure to contact your credit card company and let them know about your trip. You will also need to provide information about the locations you will be visiting and the dates of your trip. Otherwise, your card may be flagged as fraudulent or hacked. If you plan on using your credit card a lot while traveling, this can really disrupt your vacation.
5. Prepare the essentials
Beyond travel documents, accommodation, and tickets, there are other details to keep in mind to ensure your trip goes smoothly. Here are the travel essentials you need to prepare:
- attraction ticket: You're not the only one who knows where to go in Europe. This continent is a popular tourist destination. Therefore, if you don't want to compete with other people for attraction tickets, we recommend purchasing them in advance. When you buy online, you don't have to wait in line for hours. Plus, you can safely access attractions before they reach capacity.
- cash: Many places in Europe accept credit cards, but it's okay to bring cash for your tour. You can also perform a quick Google search on your local ATM machine to make sure you can access your money.
- cell phone: When you visit a new place, you need Google Maps to help you navigate. Of course, you'll also want to make sure you have access to mobile data while traveling across the continent. So don't forget to secure a European eSIM so you can stay connected while exploring.
Enjoy your trip to Europe
Remember, no trip is perfect, especially if it's your first trip to Europe. Not everything will go according to your plan. However, anticipating hiccups along the way and being proactive can make your trip more exciting and memorable. Moreover, our list of tips is not exhaustive, but it is enough to solve some problems that you may encounter during your trip. The important thing is to enjoy the journey and not let setbacks ruin your vacation.
