Things I’ve Learned From Traveling: A 28-Year-Old Girl’s Guide to Traveling Like a Pro
As a 28-year-old girl who's been lucky enough to travel to so many places, I’ve learned a lot along the way. The world has taught me valuable lessons, and I want to share these with anyone out there looking to make the most of their travel experiences. Here are the things I’ve picked up over the years that have made my travels so much more enjoyable, fulfilling, and unforgettable. If you're a newbie to travelling you will want to read this!
1. If You Want to Do Something, Do It — Even If Your Travel Buddies Don’t Want To
Sometimes, when you’re traveling with friends or in a group, it’s easy to compromise on what you want to do. But here’s the thing: If there’s something you’re really excited to experience and others aren’t into it, do it anyway. You’ll regret not doing it later. Whether it’s exploring a hidden beach, going on a solo hike, or visiting a museum that fascinates you, don’t let anyone’s preferences hold you back. You’ll never know what you’re missing until you step out on your own, and it might end up being one of the highlights of your trip.
2. Skip the Advance Bookings if You’ve Got Time—Let the Journey Unfold
If you’re fortunate enough to have an unlimited amount of time or a long trip ahead of you, don’t stress about booking every flight, train, or hotel in advance. The beauty of traveling with no rigid plans is that you can be flexible. When you talk to locals and learn about hidden gems, your plans will naturally shift. Plus, you might stumble upon places you never even knew existed. Sometimes, the most magical experiences come from spontaneous decisions, not pre-booked itineraries.
3. Don’t Justify Your Spending to Anyone—It’s Your Money, Your Experience
One thing I’ve realized is that travel is all about the experiences, not the money in your bank account. Never feel the need to explain why you spent your money on that fancy dinner, that unforgettable excursion, or that beautiful piece of art. Money comes and goes, but the memories and experiences you gain from spending it are priceless. You’re living for the journey, not the justification of others. So, if you want to splurge, go for it—it’s your life, your adventure, your choice.
4. Amazing People Are Everywhere—Even if They Don’t Speak English
Some of the best moments from my travels have come from meeting locals who didn’t speak English fluently or at all. You don’t need to share a common language to make a connection. The most meaningful interactions happen when you dive into a culture and genuinely try to understand it. Learn a few words in the local language, ask questions, and immerse yourself in the traditions, food, and way of life. Locals often have the best recommendations and can make your trip so much richer. They might even help you when you're lost or in need of advice. Some might take you places and invite you to their homes. It's the best thing that can happen and you should take these offers, not everyone wont's your money and rip you off. If your nice, they're nice.
5. Never Say “I Don’t Like That” Without Trying It First
This one’s huge for me. There were things I thought I wouldn’t like, but after giving them a try, I realized they became some of my favorite experiences. From weird foods to different activities or customs, you never really know what you’ll enjoy until you give it a go. Some of the best things in life (and travel) are the ones you initially resist. So, next time you think you don’t like something, give it a shot—you might be surprised.
6. Wake Up Early to Experience a Place in Its Best Light
If you’re someone who loves photography or just enjoys quiet moments, waking up early while traveling is one of the best decisions you can make. The early morning light is perfect for photos, and you’ll find that places are far less crowded. Whether you’re watching the sunrise, strolling through an empty market, or getting an early start on sightseeing, mornings give you a peaceful and serene way to experience a destination before the hustle and bustle of the day begins. I'm not a big fan of other tourists so I try to avoid the crowds with getting up really early.
7. If It Doesn’t Make You Happy, Don’t Do It
Traveling is all about you and your experience. Don’t feel pressured to follow a set itinerary, do something because it’s “on the list,” or take part in an activity just because your friends are. It’s your trip, and you deserve to enjoy it the way you want. If something doesn’t excite you, skip it. If you’d rather explore a new café than hike to a famous viewpoint, do that. Traveling for someone else’s happiness won’t bring you the joy that comes from following your own heart.
8. It Will Never Go as Planned—And That’s Okay
No matter how much you plan, things never go exactly as you expect. Flights might get delayed, weather can change, and activities might be canceled. That’s the beauty of travel—things always turn out differently, and that’s okay. In fact, it often leads to even better moments. So, don’t stress or force things to go according to plan. Embrace the unexpected. Sometimes, the detours lead to the best adventures.
9. Visitor Centers Are Goldmines of Information
If you’re ever in doubt, head to the local visitor center. These spots are often overlooked, but they’re an absolute gem when it comes to local information. Whether you’re looking for brochures, park passes, hidden local spots, or suggestions on things to do, the staff at visitor centers can point you in the right direction. You’d be surprised at how much you can learn about a place just by popping in for a chat.
Final Thoughts: Travel is Personal, and It’s All About You
As I continue my travels, these lessons remind me that the journey is just as important as the destination. It’s not about ticking off a list of places, it’s about living in the moment, connecting with people, and embracing the unexpected. So, don’t let anyone else’s opinions dictate your experience—make it your own, and enjoy the ride.