Top Tips for Going Abroad for the First Time

Travelling abroad for the first time can be both an exciting and a daunting prospect. If you've just booked your flight to escape to some exotic foreign lands, then you might be wondering what you need to do to make sure your holiday runs as smoothly as possible.

Remember that the key to a successful holiday abroad is all about the planning and making sure you are well prepared by the time you board that plane. Read on for some top tips on making your first holiday abroad one to remember…in a good way!
Don't forget your documents
First and foremost, you're not going anywhere without a passport. So make sure yours is up to date and keep it somewhere safe until your day of travel. It's also a great idea to take a photocopy of your passport and keep this separate from your real passport once your abroad - it can save a whole lot of hassle if the original goes missing!
In addition to your passport, you're going to need your ticket and boarding passes which you can print off ahead of time with most airlines. Also remember to apply for an EHIC card, which covers you for emergency healthcare in most EU countries.
Get insurance
It really cannot be stressed strongly enough how important it is to have travel insurance when you are holidaying abroad. Travel insurance means you get the hospital treatment you need, when you need it, without delay. Too many holiday makers believe nothing will happen to them and end up having to foot enormous medical bills, or worse, not receiving medical treatment at all.
Insurance isn't expensive - depending on where you are travelling to, insurance is well worth an extra few pounds for the peace of mind. From multi-trip to single trip worldwide travel insurance there are many different insurance options available, so shop around and find the best type of cover to suit your needs.
Pack the essentials
Make a list - that way you won't forget to pack the most important things, the things you really can't manage abroad without.
Here are a few starters for you…

• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Insect repellent
• Plasters
• Spare contact lenses

Check the weather before you travel so you'll know exactly what kind of clothes to pack, and try to create a capsule wardrobe with a few key pieces combined with other clothes you can mix and match.
Remember the restrictions
Nowadays airport security is tighter than ever, and so are the restrictions on what you can carry in your hand luggage . Check with your airline what their restrictions are on hand luggage and make sure your bag fits in with the size and type guidelines.
Don't pack that expensive perfume in your hand luggage, nor your expensive foundation - if it's over 100ml, chances are it's going to be taken off you.
Now you've read and followed each of the handy tips you're all prepared to set foot on foreign soil for the first time, just remember the most important thing…enjoy yourself!