10 Things Indians Wish They Knew Before Their First International Trip

Planning Your First International Trip: A Must-Read Guide

Planning your first international trip is one of the most exciting milestones in life. The feeling of stepping into a foreign land, witnessing new cultures, trying new cuisines, and absorbing a completely different lifestyle is extraordinary. But for many Indians, the first trip abroad comes with a mix of excitement and confusion—especially when unexpected surprises pop up.

Most first-time Indian travelers look back and say, "I wish someone told me this earlier!"

This guide brings you the 10 most important things Indians wish they knew before their first international trip, packed with real-world tips, cultural insights, and travel wisdom.

1. Getting the Right Visa Is More Complicated Than Expected

Visa processing is the first "welcome to international travel" lesson for Indians. Many underestimate the detailed documentation requirements.

What Indians wish they knew:

• Visa requirements vary widely by country
• Some require 6 months' bank statements
• Many countries need confirmed accommodation even before issuing a visa
• Travel insurance is mandatory for Schengen visas
• USA and Canada visas require interviews and strong documentation
• Always apply early—especially for USA, UK, Schengen, and Canada, where processing can take weeks

2. Indian Passport Strength Has Improved—but Not Everywhere

The Indian passport has become stronger over the years, allowing entry to many countries without pre-approval visas.

Visa-Free / Visa-on-Arrival for Indians:

• Thailand
• Indonesia
• Qatar
• Maldives
• Sri Lanka
• Bhutan
• Nepal
• Mauritius and more

But remember:

Visa-free does not mean:

• Walk-in entry
• No documents

You still need:

• Proof of funds
• Return flight
• Hotel bookings

Some airports also have long queues for visa-on-arrival.

3. International Travel Is Not Always Expensive

Most Indians assume foreign trips cost lakhs of rupees—but that's changing.

Surprising truths:

• Bali, Thailand, and Vietnam can be cheaper than domestic hotspots like Goa
• Hotels in Malaysia or Turkey can be cheaper than those in Mumbai
• Local food abroad can cost less than an Indian restaurant meal

Money-saving tips:

• Book flights 60–80 days in advance
• Travel during shoulder seasons
• Compare hotel prices on multiple platforms
• Use metro, buses, and walk—public transport abroad is excellent

4. Indian Currency Cannot Be Exchanged Everywhere

This is a major mistake first-time Indian travelers make.

Important:

• Most countries do not accept INR
• Airport exchange counters give poor rates

Best practices:

• Convert some money to USD in India
• Carry a forex card for convenience
• For Southeast Asia, carry a mix of local currency + USD
• Exchange money at city forex shops, not airports

5. Immigration Questions Can Be Intimidating—But They're Easy

Immigration officers abroad might look strict, but the questions are usually simple.

You will be asked:

• Why are you visiting?
• How long will you stay?
• Where are you staying?
• Do you have a return ticket?

Advice:

• Keep answers short and clear
• Don't show extra documents unless asked
• Keep calm—even if the officer looks serious

6. Airports Abroad Work Very Differently from Indian Airports

Many first-time Indian travelers are surprised by how systematic foreign airports are.

What to expect:

• Self-check-in kiosks
• Passport stamping may not always happen
• Strict rules on liquids
• Highly organized immigration lines
• Clear digital signboards

7. Getting Indian Food Abroad Is Not Always Easy

While places like Dubai, Singapore, Canada and the UK have Indian restaurants everywhere, not all countries do.

Hard-to-find Indian food in:

• Japan
• China
• Eastern Europe
• Cambodia
• Vietnam

Vegetarian Travelers:

Vegetarian options are limited in some countries. Even vegetarian dishes might include fish sauce or meat broth.

Best practices:

• Carry Indian ready-to-eat packs (check customs rules)
• Learn basic food terms in the local language
• Explore local cuisines—you may discover new favorites!

8. Local Culture and Etiquette Matter More Than You Think

What's normal in India may be seen as rude abroad.

Important cultural differences:

• Queues are strictly followed
• Talking loudly in public is considered rude
• Littering carries heavy fines in Japan, Singapore, Canada, and Europe
• Eating on public transport is prohibited in many places
• Tipping is mandatory in the USA and Canada

Must-know etiquette:

• Respect personal space
• Ask before taking someone's photo
• Always dispose of waste properly

9. International SIM Cards Are Overpriced—Avoid Airports

Airport SIM counters usually charge sky-high rates.

Smarter options:

• Buy a local SIM from a city shop
• Use eSIMs like Airalo
• Use hotel/airport/mall Wi-Fi
• Carry a portable hotspot when traveling as a group

10. Travel Insurance Is a Must—Not Optional

Many Indians skip this to save ₹300–₹800—only to regret it later.

Why you need it:

• Medical expenses abroad are extremely expensive
• Covers lost baggage
• Covers flight delays and cancellations
• Required by many countries including the entire Schengen region

Bonus Tips Every First-Time Indian Traveler Should Know

• Don't overpack
• Carry digital copies of all documents
• Disable mobile data roaming
• Understand restroom etiquette abroad
• Learn a few local phrases
• Research custom rules of your destination

Final Thoughts

Your first international trip is unforgettable. It opens your eyes to new cultures, new ways of living, and new perspectives about the world. But being well-prepared makes the journey smoother, more enjoyable, and stress-free.

By keeping these 10 essential things in mind, you'll avoid common mistakes and enjoy a confident, hassle-free foreign travel experience. Safe travels and happy exploring!

FAQs: 10 Things Indians Wish They Knew Before Their First International Trip