Travel Advisor Tips for Your First Trip to Europe
- Kara Winarski
- Jul 6
- 2 min read
Get Your Documents in Order Early
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date.
Check if you need a visa for any of the countries you're visiting (most Americans don't for short stays in the Schengen Zone, but always double-check).
Notify Your Bank & Bring Multiple Payment Options
Let your bank know you’ll be abroad to avoid card blocks.
Bring a credit card with no foreign transaction fees, and a backup debit card for ATM withdrawals. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted.
Always decline the conversion on ATMs and credit card transactions - they will give you a horrible exchange rate. Choose the amount in local currency.
Pack Light & Smart
Stick to a carry-on suitcase when possible or pack as lightly as you can—many European cities have cobblestones and lots of stairs. Here are my light packing tips!
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a packable rain jacket, and layers.
Leave room for souvenirs.
Bring Electrical Adapters and Converters
If you are visiting from the USA, your electrical appliances won't plug into European receptacles with their various different socket types. I have this adapter that covers all of my needs.
Europe also runs on 230V as opposed to the lower voltage of the USA. Make sure your electrical items are dual voltage or use a converter. Most electronics like phones and laptops are already fine, but hair tools involving heat need to comply or you will blow out your power like I did on my first trip to Europe!
Use Trains or Budget Airlines to Explore
The Eurail Pass or regional train passes can be great if you're traveling between multiple countries.
Budget airlines like Ryanair or EasyJet are cheap, but read the fine print on baggage fees.
Stay Connected with an International SIM or eSIM
Mainstream US cell carriers have Travel Pass options that allow you to use your cell phone as you would normally for a fee. Make sure you have it activated on your account if you choose to use your phone in Europe.
Many places, including cruise ships, offer free wifi.
Download offline maps (Google Maps) and a translation app (Google Translate).
Try the Local Food, But Know the Dining Norms
Embrace local cuisine—but note that dinner starts later in places like Spain or Italy.
Tipping isn’t as big in Europe as in the U.S.—usually rounding up or 5-10% is plenty.
Buy Tickets in Advance for Popular Attractions (We at Wanderlust can help with that, just contact us!)
Think: Eiffel Tower, Vatican Museums, Sagrada Família—these sell out fast.
Skip-the-line or guided tours can be totally worth it in busy seasons.
Learn a Few Key Phrases
Even a simple “hello,” “please,” and “thank you” in the local language goes a long way.
Most people speak English in tourist areas, but the effort is always appreciated.
Leave Room to Wander
Plan your days, but don’t over-schedule. Some of the best travel memories happen when you explore without a strict itinerary.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Comments