First Time European Travel Tips: What We Wish We Had Known

We were timid on our first trip to Europe. Looking back, we didn’t need to be. The people were wonderful, patient with our questions, and genuinely happy to help. Europe is far less intimidating than it seems from the outside, and once you get there you’ll wonder why you waited so long. Here are some of our suggestions for first time European travel tips. Tips we wished someone had told us before that first trip.

Book Early and Book Confidently

If you find what you want, book it. There is a common temptation to wait on airfare hoping prices will drop. In our experience, you are just as likely to end up paying more. When you find a flight, a hotel, or a tour that feels right, lock it in. The peace of mind alone is worth it.

For tours specifically, we use platforms like Viator to research and book experiences. One of the best things about booking tours this way is that most offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. That means you can book what looks interesting now without the pressure of committing completely. If your plans change or you find something better, you can cancel at no charge. Book what appeals to you and adjust later if needed.

Travel Agent or DIY

We have booked trips every possible way. We have used a travel agent, done it ourselves entirely, and used a combination of both depending on the trip. There is no wrong answer. What matters is that you feel confident in your plan. We are fortunate to have a travel agent we know and trust, and we lean on her heavily for anything involving Disney theme parks or cruises. For other trips we often handle the details ourselves. Figure out what works for you and go with it.

YouTube Is Your Best Resource

Before any trip, spend time on YouTube. Thinking about a hotel? There is almost certainly a video review of it. Curious about a neighborhood, a tour, or an attraction? YouTube has you covered. It is the single best research tool available to travelers today, and it does something guidebooks cannot. It builds excitement. Watching videos of where you are going makes the trip feel real and helps eliminate the surprises that make first time travelers nervous.

We have also become fans of several travel content creators who are out there exploring the world and sharing what they find. Their insights have shaped many of our trips. If you want to know who we follow, just ask — we are happy to share.

We also picked up genuinely useful tips this way. For instance, we learned before our Edinburgh trip that locals are frustrated by tourists touching the nose of the Bobby the dog statue. We would never have known that without YouTube.

Flying Smart from the Midwest

Living in the Midwest, direct international flights are hard to come by. Our approach is to drive to a larger hub airport rather than flying out of our local regional airport. Smaller airports are typically the first places to see flight cancellations, and the last thing you want is to be stranded 20 minutes from home at the start of a major European vacation. Larger hub airports also tend to offer better pricing on international fares.

Global Entry and TSA PreCheck

Get both. Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck and is worth every bit of effort it takes to obtain. Yes, the process to get Global Entry is a bit of a pain. But after a long transatlantic flight, walking through customs quickly is a genuine luxury. Do it once and you will never regret it.

Money and Cards in Europe

Most of Europe is cashless and we have fully embraced that. The most important thing is to make sure you have a credit card that does not charge international transaction fees. That single step will save you money on every purchase. We also recommend having a card with tap to pay capability, especially if you plan to use public transit. In London for example, you do not need an Oyster Card if you have a tap to pay credit card. Just be consistent and use the same card both getting on and getting off the Tube.

For cash, we use our local bank to get a small amount of local currency for tips on tours and other situations where cash is preferred. Local banks typically offer the best rates with minimal fees.

Getting Around

Our strong preference is not to drive in Europe. We have hired drivers, taken trains, used the Underground, called Ubers, and hailed cabs. Navigating unfamiliar roads in a foreign country adds stress to a vacation that should be relaxing. Let someone else handle the driving and spend that energy enjoying where you are.

Rail travel in Europe is excellent and worth exploring for longer distances between cities. For getting around within a city, public transit and Uber are reliable and affordable.

Travel in Shoulder Season

We have said it before and we will keep saying it. Traveling just before or just after peak season gives you shorter lines, lower prices, and weather that is still perfectly enjoyable. It is one of the best decisions any traveler can make, and it is especially true in Europe where summer crowds at major attractions can be overwhelming.

Be a Gracious Guest

Common sense goes a long way. Be courteous, keep your voice down, and be respectful of local customs and sensitivities. We make it a point to not be the ugly American abroad. Most Europeans are warm and understanding, especially when they can see you are making an effort. Do not let fear of doing something wrong hold you back. Ask questions, be kind, and enjoy the experience.

Pack Smart

Changes in the airline industry has forced first time European travel tips to be more than a suggestion. If you don’t follow this one, it can cost you big time money. Airline baggage limits are real and they will catch you off guard if you are not prepared. Our advice: bring less than you think you need and leave room for souvenirs. You will find things you want to bring home and you will be glad you planned for it.

One essential item we always pack is a universal electrical adapter that covers both European and UK standards. A single adapter that handles both saves you from carrying multiple plugs and covers you in virtually every destination.

You Can Do This

If you are nervous about your first European trip, we understand. We were too. What we found on the other side of that nervousness was one of the most rewarding travel experiences of our lives. Do your research, watch your YouTube videos, book with confidence, and go. Europe is waiting and it is every bit as wonderful as you hope it will be. We hope our first time European travel tips help you out!