Travelling can be one of the most enriching and rewarding parts of life, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make mistakes without even realising it.
Whether it’s overpacking, wasting money on unnecessary fees, or accidentally offending locals, some missteps can turn a dream trip into a stressful experience. The good news? A little preparation goes a long way. Here are 12 common travel mistakes you might not even know you’re making—and how to avoid them.
1. Ignoring local customs and etiquette
It’s easy to assume that what’s normal at home is normal everywhere, but that’s not always the case. In some countries, tipping is expected, while in others, it’s considered rude. A friendly handshake might be the standard greeting where you live, but elsewhere, a bow or a kiss on the cheek might be the norm.
Before you go, take a few minutes to research basic customs, from dress codes to dining etiquette. Not only will it help you avoid awkward situations, but it also shows respect for the culture you’re visiting.
2. Overpacking and bringing the wrong things
We’ve all been there — stuffing our suitcase with “just in case” outfits, only to realise half of them never leave the bag. Overpacking not only makes it harder to get around, but it can also lead to expensive baggage fees. Instead of packing for every possible scenario, focus on versatile pieces that you can mix and match. And don’t forget to leave room for souvenirs because depending on where you go, you’ll probably pick up more than you planned.
3. Not checking visa and entry requirements in advance
Few things are worse than arriving at your destination only to be turned away at immigration because of a missing visa or entry document. Even if you think you don’t need one, always double-check before you fly.
Some countries require visas to be arranged weeks in advance, while others allow visa-free entry but only if your passport has enough validity left. A quick check on an official government website can save you from a last-minute panic at the airport.
4. Exchanging money at the airport
Source: Unsplash Airport currency exchange desks might seem convenient, but they usually offer some of the worst rates you’ll find. If you need cash, it’s better to withdraw money from an ATM when you arrive. For even better rates, consider using a travel-friendly debit or credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. That way, you won’t lose money before your trip has even properly started.
5. Relying too much on card payments
While cards are widely accepted in many places, some destinations still rely heavily on cash. Markets, small cafes, and local transport might only take cash, so it’s always a good idea to carry some local currency just in case.
Check ahead to see whether your destination is card-friendly, or if you’ll need to visit an ATM upon arrival. Running out of cash in a place that doesn’t take cards is an easy way to add unnecessary stress to your trip.
6. Booking everything too far in advance
Planning ahead is great, but booking everything months in advance can sometimes work against you. Hotels and tours often release discounts closer to the date, and some activities might not even require reservations.
It’s worth securing your flights and key accommodations early, but for things like day trips and activities, a little flexibility can save you money and give you the chance to change plans if something better comes up.
7. Not checking your phone’s roaming charges
Using your phone abroad without checking your provider’s roaming charges can lead to an eye-watering bill when you get home. Some networks charge ridiculous rates for data usage, even if you only check Google Maps a couple of times.
Before you travel, check whether your plan includes international roaming. If not, look into buying a local SIM card or an eSIM, or simply make sure you download maps and important information in advance so you can access them offline.
8. Forgetting to notify your bank
Imagine getting to your destination, trying to pay for something, and your card gets declined because your bank thinks it’s fraud. It happens more often than you’d think. To avoid this, notify your bank before you travel, especially if you’re visiting a country you’ve never been to before. Many banks let you do this online in just a few minutes, saving you the hassle of sorting out a blocked card while you’re abroad.
9. Packing all your valuables in one place
Keeping all your cash, cards, and important documents in the same bag might seem convenient, but if that bag gets lost or stolen, you’re in trouble. Always spread out your valuables. Keep some emergency cash separate, carry a backup card in a different place, and if possible, store digital copies of important documents like your passport and travel insurance on your phone or email.
10. Skipping travel insurance
Travel insurance might feel like an unnecessary expense—until you actually need it. Whether it’s a lost bag, a medical emergency, or a cancelled flight, things can and do go wrong. Even if you’re only travelling for a short time, having insurance can save you thousands in unexpected costs. It’s one of those things you hope you won’t need, but you’ll be relieved to have if something goes wrong.
11. Packing the wrong power adapter
Nothing is more frustrating than arriving at your hotel, ready to charge your phone, only to realise the plug sockets are different. Many countries have unique plug types, and if you don’t have the right adapter, you’ll be scrambling to find one. Invest in a universal travel adapter that works in multiple regions, and check the voltage differences before you plug in any high-powered devices like hairdryers or straighteners.
12. Cramming too much into your itinerary
It’s tempting to plan every hour of your trip to make the most of your time, but overloading your schedule can leave you feeling exhausted rather than excited. Allow some breathing room for unexpected discoveries, spontaneous plans, or even just some downtime. Some of the best travel experiences happen when you’re not rushing from one thing to the next.
