Travel planning for a first-timer can be complicated especially when traveling overseas. Between packing preparation, checking visa requirements, medical preparation, and the bits and pieces of your travel plans, it’s easy to miss something, even if you’re fairly experienced.

However, there are those travel mistakes that can be avoided. And to help you with that, here’s a look at 10 biggest travel mistakes and how you can avoid them.

1. Not Booking Enough buffer Time Between Flights

When booking connecting flights, it’s recommended that you have some buffer time between both. Since flight conditions are sometimes unpredictable, you might end up rushing through an unfamiliar airport for your connecting flight, and not have enough time to catch it in time.

2. Not getting Travel Insurance

There are things that complicate travel such as baggage loss or medical emergencies. So, to help you make sure that your travel experience goes smoothly, consider getting travel insurance. Also, there are plans that cover emergency medical expenses outside your country if your own health cover doesn’t.

3. Not tracking Your Reservation Details

It is advisable that you read your itinerary before you leave for your trip. Make sure you keep it in a separate bag with all your passport copies and important documents. You could also keep an electronic copy on your phone for quick reference. Additionally, always follow-up on your transport and hotel reservation details beforehand.

4. Over-packing

Though you might be tempted to pack outfits for all the possible occasions, it will make it difficult for you to draw your luggage around. Also, you might have to pay high baggage fees should you exceed the weight limit. So, it is advisable that you pack a few clothing accessories that are best suited for the climatic conditions in your destination and you can do some laundry on the road as well.

5. Forgetting To Grab Some Local Currency At The Airport

Having some local currency can make use of public transport or cab rides much easier. So, before leaving the airport, consider taking out some cash from the airport ATMs. Besides, it’ll give you a better exchange rate. Also, only get what you need and a little extra for emergencies.

6. Not Confirming Your Cell Phone Plan

It’s crucial to confirm what your cell phone plan covers so as to avoid incurring data roaming fees. If you’re not covered, before getting on the plane turn off your data and leave your cell in airplane mode (you can still connect to wi-fi). For data convenience, consider getting an international plan or buy a local SIM card as soon as you arrive.

7. Not Notifying Your Bank Before You Travel

Credit card companies and banks always flag foreign transactions to prevent credit card fraud and could freeze your account. To avoid this, be sure to notify your bank in advance. Also, find out whether they charge foreign transaction fees, so you know what to expect.

8. Forgetting To Check Visa Requirements

As you make your travel preparation, always make sure you confirm visa requirements for your destination. Also, make sure your passport is valid with dates running beyond when you re-enter the country. There are some websites that provide information on visa requirements for different countries, so, to avoid canceling your trip, ensure that you take care of all your visa requirements well in advance.

9. Stuffing Too Many Activities Or Visiting Many Countries In One Trip

This will limit your opportunities since you’ll either be too busy or too exhausted to explore the hidden gems or implement tips from locals. So, as you make your travel arrangements, make sure you leave some time for you to relax and enjoy the specialties that each place has to offer.

10. Not Keeping Your Valuables Safe

The last thing you would want to experience is being a victim of theft or getting robbed. So, to avoid losing your electronics, cash, or other valuables consider purchasing an anti-theft bag. And make sure to leave your passport locked up in your room when you go out drinking. When you take your phone along, keep the bag closed and right in front of you at all times.