Tips & Tricks for Your First International Adventure
Hello, I’m Tam Sanders, and I’ve just returned from an unforgettable three-week journey through Italy and a Mediterranean cruise with my husband of 45 years, Jeff. From historic cities to cobblestone streets and breathtaking coastlines, this trip was truly the adventure of a lifetime.
If you’re preparing for your first overseas trip, especially to Europe, I want to share some practical tips and tricks to help you travel with confidence, comfort, and joy.
First-Time International Travel: What to Expect
If you’ve never traveled overseas, everything will feel new—and that’s part of the magic! Try not to let anxiety get the best of you. With a little preparation, you’ll be ready to embrace the adventure.
Before you go:
- Get plenty of rest leading up to your trip
- Pack comfortable shoes and clothing
- Plan for layers—weather can change quickly
- Prepare your legs for walking: expect 7,000–15,000 steps a day
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions—many other travelers are in the same boat
We found Italians to be incredibly friendly and helpful. Tourism is vital to their country, and they genuinely want visitors to have a wonderful experience.
Self-Care While Traveling
When you’re on the go all day, simplicity is key.
Hair & beauty:
- “Blow and go” hairstyles work best
- Pinning hair back or up is even better
- Wind, heat, and constant walking can flatten any style (trust me—check my photos!)
Stay comfortable:
- Drink plenty of water—hydration is essential
- Bring lip balm, eye drops, and lotion (the air is dry, similar to California)
- Rotate your shoes so your feet get a break
- Allow time for naps during the first few days to combat jet lag
What to Wear: October Travel Tips
We traveled in October, and experienced everything from warm sunshine to chilly winds.
My best advice? Layers!
What worked well:
- A light sweater
- A windbreaker or light jacket
- A neck scarf (which also doubled as a head covering for sacred sites)
As we traveled farther north, temperatures dropped. Be sure to pack:
- At least one warm sweater
- Long pants for cooler regions
Packing Smart for Europe
We packed one carry-on suitcase and one backpack each, which made travel much easier.
Additional packing tips:
- Bring a foldable bag for souvenirs—it packs small and comes in handy later
- Cobblestone streets aren’t just in Venice—they’re everywhere
- Expect lots of stairs, often with no elevators
Be prepared to lift and carry your luggage at times. Make sure your suitcase wheels are sturdy—luggage takes a beating on European streets. And don’t worry if you need more space—there are plenty of luggage shops along the way if you decide to size up (we did… and laughed about it!).
Money Matters
During our travels from Italy to Istanbul and back, we used a mix of credit cards, Euros, and Lira.
What I recommend:
- Use cash for shopping
- Use credit cards for hotels and restaurants
- Always keep small coins on hand for public toilets
Many restrooms require payment, and there are usually coin machines nearby if you don’t have exact change.
Staying Safe: Pickpocket Awareness
Europe is known for pickpockets, especially in busy tourist areas. While we didn’t experience any issues, it’s best to stay prepared. In fact, my cousin recently had her purse snatched in Barcelona.
Safety tips:
- Don’t carry all your cash and cards at once
- Record your credit card and passport numbers in case of theft
- Use a bag worn across the front of your body
- Cover backpack straps with a jacket to prevent easy snipping
A little awareness goes a long way.
Let’s Talk About Bidets
I have bidets in all my bathrooms at home in Florida, but European bidets are quite different.
European-style bidets often include:
- Soap
- Towels
- A stopper for easier use
If you’re unfamiliar, I highly recommend watching a quick video tutorial before your trip—it makes things much less intimidating!
Final Thoughts
Above all, relax and enjoy yourself. International travel is a true adventure, and you don’t want to miss a single moment by worrying too much.
Take it all in—the food, the history, the people, and the memories you’ll cherish forever. If your ready to book your European getaway reach out to me , Tam Sanders!
Buon viaggio, ciao! ✨
