Top 6 Mistakes Students Make When Traveling Abroad (and How to Avoid Them!)

You’re heading out for the adventure of a lifetime traveling abroad. How can you make it the best experience possible? By avoiding the common mistakes of student travelers past!

These are six pitfalls we have observed (and personally experienced) among first-time student travelers, and hopefully our tips can keep you from repeating them.

Discover ACIS Travel Itineraries

Mistake #1 – Overpacking

Overpacking is a trap even the most seasoned travelers can fall into. You’ll pay more for a heavier bag, and large suitcases are a literal drag: You’ll be glad you’re not hauling massive luggage down the narrow cobblestone streets of Rome and Granada!

The best packing solution is to think in layers. Plan outfits that can transition easily from cool mornings to warmer afternoons, with breathable fabrics that are especially needed in hotter regions. If you’re headed to a cold climate, wear some of your bulkiest layers on the plane to save room in your suitcase.

Remember, too, that you’ll be doing a ton of walking, especially on an ACIS tour, so prioritize comfortable shoes.

Need help getting organized? ACIS has a packing list and additional tips.

Mistake #2 – Not Learning About Local Customs

Before you head abroad, do some initial research about each of the countries and cities you will be visiting. When you show awareness of cultural differences not only are you growing as a global citizen, your trip will proceed more smoothly.

For example, say you’re out to lunch in Paris during group free time. You have a wonderful meal but you’re getting anxious because the waiter has not come to ask you about your bill, and the group is meeting back up soon. In France, dining out is much more leisurely, so staff will not bring l’addition unless you ask for it. Tipping is also not customary like it is in the US, so while dropping a Euro or two is common, you don’t need to worry about paying an additional 20%.

Another important tip: Memorize a few key phrases in the host language, such as “please” and “thank you.” Even if you’re not fluent, showing this small deference to local customs goes a long way.

Mistake #3 – Sticking With What You Know

You have the opportunity to try new things in a foreign country: Don’t squander the chance to get out of your comfort zone! Maybe you’re a picky eater at home: You might not get another chance to savor delicious regional cuisine (Escargot, anyone?). Maybe you’re shy in Spanish class back in the states: Take the opportunity to practice your language skills with native speakers. Pushing yourself to enjoy new experiences ultimately builds confidence and independence, even if you’re not an escargot convert for life!

Travel is also an opportunity to meet new friends. There’s a good chance that there are classmates on your ACIS tour that you haven’t connected with before. And if your ACIS group is combined with another, you get to meet new friends from other schools and potentially other parts of the country.

Mistake #4 – Staying On Your Phone

For safety, communication and photography purposes, we wouldn’t go as far as to recommend traveling without your phone but we would recommend using it as little as possible. Travel is a gift that is best savored in the moment: You only get to see St. Peter’s Basilica for the first time once! It can be easy to get sucked into the digital world, but do your best to stay present. Prioritize connecting with people on your tour (See tip #3 on making new friends!), especially at free time and meals.

Mistake #5 – Poor Money Management

The majority of your ACIS travel expenses will already be included in your program fee ahead of departure but you’ll still need to allocate funds for lunches and any souvenirs. Before you travel, take a look at the currency exchange rate and think about how much you want to budget.

Here are some other key travel finance tips:

• Credit cards can be used for many purchases abroad but you’ll want cash on hand for small items, such as an espresso.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies before you depart so there are no flags raised when you pay in a foreign country.
• It’s worth finding out if your credit card has any special features, such as no foreign transaction fees.

Mistake #6 – Forgetting You’re a Guest

Just as learning local customs goes a long way, so does remembering you are a guest in the places you’re exploring. Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in a group. Leave the area better than when you found it. Be respectful around memorials and places considered sacred. For example, even if you’re not personally religious, covering shoulders in a church is a sign of respect and often required for entry. Think of yourselves as cultural ambassadors, and represent your school, your community, your country in the best light possible. Here are some additional ways you can be a responsible traveler with ACIS.

With so many inclusions and immersive cultural activities baked into trip itineraries, ACIS makes it easy to follow the tips provided! Come with us on tour and discover why we’re the most trusted in educational travel.