The 3 Best Ways To Prepare For An Around The World Trip
The thought of traveling across different countries, soaking in new cultures, and seeing places that are completely different from what you’re used to is something special. It’s an idea that many people have, but write off as something only rich adventurers can do. The truth is, with good planning and saving, this trip can be for anyone.
You can make it happen by planning carefully and being smart with your money. In the end, the memories and personal growth you’ll gain will be worth every bit of effort you put into making this trip happen. In this article, we will go over several strategies to help you prepare for a trip around the world.
1 – Get your travel documents in order
When you’re planning an around-the-world trip, getting your paperwork sorted out is one of the first things you need to do. It might not be as fun as picking destinations, but it’s important to make sure your trip goes off without a hitch.
Start by checking your passport. Make sure it’s valid for at least six months after you plan to come back home. If it’s close to expiring, get it renewed well before your trip to avoid any last-minute problems. Some countries won’t even let you in if your passport is about to expire, so this is a must.
Next, look into the visa requirements for the countries you want to visit. Each place has its own rules, and some visas can take a while to get. Make a list of all the countries on your route and check what each one needs. Some visas can be done online, but others might need you to visit an embassy.
You’ll also need to have a good annual travel insurance policy. While it’s not something you want to think about, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Find an insurance plan that covers things like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. This way, if something unexpected happens, you’re covered, and you won’t have to worry about big expenses.
2 – Create a budget
The biggest barrier to managing an around the world trip is certainly not having enough money. It’s essential to understand how much money you’ll need to make this trip happen. With some planning, you can make sure you have enough cash to enjoy your adventure without stressing about your finances.
Start researching the expenses like flights, places to stay, food, local travel, activities, and anything else you might need. Keep in mind that costs can vary a lot depending on where you go. For instance, traveling in Southeast Asia can be much cheaper than in Western Europe. Also, it’s a good idea to set aside some extra money for unexpected things, like a last-minute flight or an extra hotel night.
Once you have a rough idea of your expenses, start saving up. Look at your current budget and figure out how much you can save each month. You might need to cut back on some things at home to build your travel fund. Start as early as you can, and keep your goal in sight.
There are plenty of apps and tools that can help you track your spending while you travel. These can make it easier to stick to your budget and avoid running out of money halfway through your trip.
3 – Take health and safety precautions
Staying healthy and safe on your around-the-world trip should be your biggest priority. You’ll be in new places, trying new foods, and dealing with different weather, so it’s good to be prepared to keep yourself feeling your best.
Before you head out, check if you need any vaccinations for the countries you’re visiting. Some places require certain shots, while others just recommend them. Visit your doctor or a travel clinic well before you leave to make sure you’re covered. Packing a small first aid kit with basics like band-aids, pain relievers, and other essentials is a good idea, too.
When it comes to safety, being aware of your surroundings and taking simple steps can go a long way. Look up any local safety tips for the places you’re visiting, like common scams or areas to avoid at night. It’s also smart to register with your country’s embassy or consulate in each country, so they can reach you if something unexpected happens.
Keeping clean is also really important while traveling. Wash your hands often and use hand sanitizer when you can’t find soap and water. Be cautious with what you eat and drink, especially in places where the water might not be safe. Stick to bottled water and avoid raw foods that might have been washed in local water. Street food can be delicious, but try to pick vendors that look clean and have lots of customers, as their food is likely fresher.
