I’ve been lucky enough to have travelled to a lot of different countries, but I still remember what it was like when I was first bitten by the travelling bug. The freedom that travelling brings is certainly a huge draw for a growing number of people these days, but you don’t have to start off big if you’re not ready.

Whether it’s nerves or for financial reasons, starting off with mini travelling breaks is a great way to give yourself a taste of the lifestyle. If you’re a first-time traveller, just follow these five tips…

Research where you’re going

For beginners, not knowing what’s around the next corner can be intimidating, so on your first trip, do some research into where you’re headed, but try to aim it at the local angle instead. For example, look online for blogs on the area run by locals, or go on sites like Trip Advisor and look specifically for places off the beaten track. It will alleviate some of your concerns but keep the excitement going.

Be clever with packing

You need to be far more strategic when it comes to travel packing than for a simple holiday. First of all, you’ll be moving around a lot, so getting a backpack is the obvious choice simply because you’re not dragging something with you. This means you need to be able to physically carry it, and it may take you a few tries before you’re able to fit in all the essentials whilst still being able to lift them. You can find a great packing guide here.

Take something special with you

Even though travelling is a wonderful experience, you still miss friends and family, so I’d recommend taking a few things with you that remind you of home. It could be some photographs, a toy from when you were younger or even a special piece of jewellery. For me, it was my charm bracelet from ChloBo; I loved that it had charms that remind me of happy memories as well as being references to aspects of my personality, and that can be hugely comforting.

Be open to making friends

A lot of people have safety concerns when they go travelling and that’s more than understandable. While you should exercise caution and go with your gut instinct with people, it’s important to still be open to making friends. One of the best aspects of travelling is the new and exciting people you meet, and it would be a shame to miss out on how they can enrich your life!

Don’t use a hotel

Finally, how can you truly experience and embrace a new culture if you stay in hotels? There are tonnes of beautiful and affordable apartments in most cites of the world, so try to stay out of luxury suites while you’re in travelling mode. Don’t stay cooped up either – go out there at night and explore! It’s the best way to learn the travelling way.

Do you have any tips for first-time travellers?