Students and young adults reach the point in their lives when they face travelling on their own or moving to another country to study. First-time travellers are often worried about this big undertaking. Some of them have never travelled without their parents and the experience seems quite daunting. If you are facing travelling for the first time, whether it's a student exchange program, a holiday with friends or a gap year around-the-world trip, you need to make sure that you are well prepared and know what you are doing. Travelling and holidays are above all enjoyable, so think positive and show that you are mature enough to cope with the situation. Here is a list of things for you to consider before you head off.
Entertainment
Plan the things you can do at the destination you are going to. Make sure the entertainment fits in your budget so you don't end up calling your parents in the middle of the trip, begging for money. You need to be an adult about this and spend only on what you can afford. Moreover, make sure you take with you a book or an mp3 player. Your laptop is a must, so you can contact your parents and back up your photos. If it's going to be a long flight you need something to keep you entertained too.
Currency
If you are travelling in Europe, in most countries you will need the Euro, but each country has its own value of the currency, so it's best to do a little research before you leave. Make sure you have enough cash for countries where you might not find an ATM straight away, but don't travel with all your money in cash. If you are travelling to Asia, make sure you convert some money before you leave. When you withdraw money it's wiser to do it for bigger amounts or you could end up paying tax for each amount which is unreasonable.
Languages
Knowing English won't help you everywhere in the world, which may come as a shock. If you are going to South America, Africa or Asia, be prepared with some phrase books and ideally a list of phrases that you might be using on a daily basis. If you show that you have come prepared and you want to learn, the locals will be much more eager to be at your service.
Communication
When you are travelling the price of calling and sending text messages can be quite high, so make sure you have Wi-Fi on your phone and a laptop. Explain to your parents that there might be days without them hearing anything from you, but take the first chance to contact them and say you are alright. If you are travelling with friends, find a few spare minutes to send a mutual email to the parents and assure them that everything's fine. When calling, consider the time zone difference.
Packing
Check the weather forecast and make sure you pack only what you are going to wear. It's best to use layers - cardigans, jackets, etc. If you are going to stay in hotels, the luggage won't be a problem, but if you are going travelling on foot, you need to think about each kg you put in your backpack.

Travelling on your own for the first time is both exciting and terrifying. As long as you are well prepared and travelling with somebody you know well, the experience will be memorable and great.