If you’re an American traveling to Europe for the first time, you are probably very excited. Your mind is racing with all the possibilities of your upcoming adventures. Incredible cultural sites, delicious foods and dreams coming into realities. In all the excitement it’s easy to overlook some important essentials to be prepared for traveling in Europe, especially if it’s your first time, so I’m here to help.
Here are 5 things to be aware of to make the transition from America to Europe as easy as possible as a visitor.
1.Charging Power Outlets Are Different
Your phone will be your lifeline for navigating new cities, airport & train ticketing, entertainment and of course camera to capture those perfect Instagram pictures, but it won’t do you much good if it’s not charged! Be aware that outlets in Europe are different from those in the U.S.A.
In the U.S. outlets use 3 prongs for plugs, but in Europe only 2 prongs are used. Be sure to purchase an European travel plug adapter, like the one linked here, that pairs with your phone charger so that you are charged and ready to go on whatever European adventure you choose.
2.Showers Are Tight
Depending on where you live in the U.S.A this realization may not be as much as a shock, but to many the difference is vast from showers in the U.S. vs. showers in Europe.
Where an American may be used to a spacious shower/bathtub combo, in Europe it is not uncommon to have no bathtub and a shower where turning around or bending down to wash your feet can prove to be the next Olympic event in flexibility. Don’t worry you’ll still be able to get squeaky clean, but just be prepared to feel a bit more compressed than back home.
3.Always Pick the Local Country’s Currency
When using a credit card in Europe, you may be prompted when making purchases if you want to pay in US dollars or Euros…pick the Euros option!
When picking the local currency you avoid the DCC, or Dynamic Currency Conversion. If you were to choose dollars, the seller’s bank has additional exchange rate fees that significantly can make your purchase more expensive. Avoid this at all costs… no pun intended!
For additional money savings, prior to the trip you may choose to select a credit or debit cards that waive foreign transaction fees, or download a currency exchange app to your mobile device so that you can always be informed of what you are paying for your purchases. Saving money from hidden fees is always a plus, so remember to pick the local country’s currency.
4.Fill Up When You Can
In the U.S.A it’s not uncommon to see water fountains, bottle refilling stations or enjoy free water at a restaurant, but in Europe, this is a different story. It’s recommended to bring a water bottle and when the opportunity presents itself to fill up, take it! It’ll save you money from having to continuously buy water from convenience shops or restaurants, and keeps you hydrated. A water bottle is a win/win, so bring that Stanley or Hydroflask and get to exploring you winner.
5.Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many common tourist destinations in Europe are extremely walkable so it is important to feel comfortable and supported as you are walking around especially on the cobble stone streets that support many famous tourist destinations. . Albeit they are beautiful and really set the vibes for a European adventure, the uneven pavement can really do a number on your feet and back so comfortable shoes are a must! Arch support, padding and good traction will be your best friends to hit the streets and feel confident and comfortable to keep going as new adventures unfold.
There’s a lot to explore, so I hope these tips are helpful for you to feel recharged, hydrated and ready to go!
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