Travelling abroad for the first time is an exciting yet daunting experience. From visa applications to cultural adjustments, every step requires careful planning. For Nigerians, who perhaps have not crossed the borders before, it even more essential to know all about navigating this phase before you get abroad. Guardian Life curated ten important tips to ensure a smooth journey if you’re stepping onto international soil for the first time.

Get your documents in order

The first and most crucial step is securing all necessary travel documents. A valid international passport is essential and should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. Without a passport, international travel is impossible. You must also check the specific visa requirements of your destination country and apply well in advance. Visa application processes vary depending on the country, and delays can be frustrating.

Booking a flight ticket early helps secure the best fares, especially during peak travel periods. A yellow card, which serves as proof of vaccination against yellow fever, is another important document, as many countries require this certificate before granting entry.

Proof of funds may be requested by immigration officers, so having your bank statements or sponsorship letters ready will prevent unnecessary delays.

Accommodation fare is highly necessary to avoid situation where you need to sleep on bus stations or on the bridge.

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Research your destination

Understanding the culture, climate, and laws of your destination country will help you prepare adequately. Weather conditions differ significantly across regions, so if you are travelling to the United Kingdom in winter, for instance, prepare for extreme cold unlike Nigeria’s tropical heat.

Some countries have strict local laws that may differ from those in Nigeria. For example, chewing gum is banned in Singapore, and violating such regulations may result in fines. Cultural sensitivities should not be ignored, as different regions have their own dress codes, greetings, and public behaviour expectations.

In some places, being too loud in public is frowned upon. Knowing the exchange rate before you travel is necessary, and getting some local currency before departure will help you handle small expenses upon arrival.

Understand immigration and border control rules

Many first-time travellers feel nervous about immigration checks, but proper preparation will ease the process. Answering immigration officers’ questions confidently and truthfully is crucial. They typically ask about the purpose of your visit, duration of stay, and where you will be lodging. Keep your passport, visa, proof of accommodation and fund easily accessible. It is also important to respect local authorities, follow instructions, and avoid arguing with immigration officers.

Carrying prohibited items can lead to serious consequences, so ensure you are aware of restrictions concerning food, plant products, and even medications before travelling.

Plan your finances wisely

Managing money outside Nigeria is different from handling naira at home. Carrying multiple payment options is a smart decision. Having a mix of cash, debit or credit cards, and international banking apps like PayPal or Wise ensures financial flexibility. Excessive spending should be avoided, as the cost of living in many countries is higher than in Nigeria. You don’t want to use all your money and buy all sorts with little left for uncertainties abroad.

Your first trip abroad is not the time to splurge on luxury shopping. You only need the basic necessities as nobody really cares over there. Informing your bank of your travel plans is also necessary to prevent your transactions from being flagged as fraudulent. Many banks restrict foreign transactions unless they are notified in advance.

Pack smartly

Overpacking can be a burden, especially when you have to move around with heavy luggage. Airlines have strict baggage rules, and exceeding the limit attracts hefty charges. Check the baggage policy of your airline before packing. Your clothing should be suitable for the weather at your destination. If you are travelling to Europe in winter, heavy coats, boots, and thermal wear are essential.

Essential documents should be packed in both digital and physical formats. Scanning and saving copies of your passport, visa, and tickets in cloud storage ensures that you have backups in case of emergencies. Personal care items should also be considered. While toiletries are available abroad, some products may not be suitable for your preference or skin type. Get all your products that will curb cold or flu.

Stay safe and healthy

Registering with the Nigerian embassy in your destination country is a wise move, as the embassy can assist in case of emergencies. Staying aware of your surroundings is important, especially in unfamiliar places. Avoid unsafe areas, particularly at night, and do not carry large sums of money.

Health insurance is another essential requirement, as medical treatment abroad can be expensive. Having travel insurance that covers medical emergencies can save you from financial strain in case of illness.
Memorising emergency contact numbers of the country you are visiting is necessary, as each country has different emergency hotlines for police, ambulance, and fire services.

Adapt to the local culture

Respecting time is important, as many countries place a high value on punctuality. Unlike in Nigeria, where a delay of a few minutes is sometimes tolerated, lateness can be considered rude in other cultures.

Communication should be clear and at a reasonable pace. English is spoken differently worldwide, and speaking too fast or using heavy Nigerian accents may make it difficult for others to understand you. For this, make sure to follow all the lessons from IETS exams and improve your grammar.

What we may frown at here may be seen as a normal way of life there and looking at someone displaying this act in public places may land you in serious trouble. Just smile and let it slide–That’s difference in culture.

Trying local food is part of the travel experience. While you may crave jollof rice, exploring new cuisines broadens your experience and allows you to appreciate different cultures.

Public transportation is widely used in many countries, and learning how to navigate the metro, buses, or trams will save you money compared to using taxis.

Be in touch with family and friends

Getting a local SIM card upon arrival helps reduce roaming charges, ensuring that you stay connected without excessive costs. Messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Zoom are useful for video and voice calls. Being mindful of time zone differences is necessary when calling home to avoid disturbing family members at odd hours.

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Verify job and study opportunities

If travelling for work or study, verifying all opportunities before making commitments is important. Many Nigerians fall victim to scams when seeking job or study placements abroad. Researching employers and institutions before making any financial commitments will help you avoid fraudulent schemes.

Understanding work permit rules is also necessary, as some visas prohibit employment, and working illegally can lead to deportation. Connect with fellow Nigerians in your destination country to provide support and guidance, especially when adjusting to a new environment, else depression and loneliness may set in.

Importantly, it’s harder to navigate life abroad, especially when you do not have any relative already there. For you to successfully overcome depression, loneliness and anxiety, constantly feed your mind the reason you are travelling abroad in the first place, this will keep you motivated to do what it take legally to succeed and push boundaries.