Travelling is my heartbeat. The thrill of stepping off a plane into a new city, the chaos of a bustling market, the quiet awe of a mountain sunrise, it’s magic. But let’s be real: I’ve fumbled my way through plenty of trips, learning the hard way what not to do. From packing disasters to cultural blunders, I’ve made my share of travel mistakes that could’ve been avoided. So, grab a coffee, and let me spill the tea on the top 10 mistakes people (including me!) make while travelling, with some stories to make you laugh, cringe, and maybe take notes.

1. My first big trip was to Thailand, a backpacker’s paradise. I was 23, wide-eyed, and armed with a backpack the size of a small car. Travel Mistake number one: overpacking. I thought I needed five pairs of shoes, a fancy dress for some imaginary gala, and enough snacks to survive an apocalypse. By day three, my shoulders were screaming, and I was cursing every “just in case” item. I ended up donating half my stuff to a hostel in Chiang Mai, including a pair of heels I never wore. Lesson learned—pack light. Stick to versatile clothes, one pair of comfy shoes, and a few essentials. Your back will thank you, and you’ll have room for souvenirs like that handwoven scarf from a Bangkok night market.

2. Then there’s the opposite problem: underpacking essentials. On a trip to Iceland, I assumed I could buy anything I forgot. Spoiler: Rural Iceland isn’t exactly brimming with 24/7 convenience stores. I forgot a waterproof jacket, and when a storm hit during a hike in Skaftafell, I was soaked to the bone, shivering, and miserable. Now, I always check the weather and pack key items like a raincoat, a reusable water bottle, and a power bank. Trust me, a little prep saves you from turning into a human popsicle.

3. Speaking of prep, let’s talk about not researching the destination. In Morocco, I strolled into a medina in Marrakech wearing shorts and a tank top, blissfully unaware of local customs. The stares were immediate, and I felt like a neon sign screaming “tourist.” A kind shopkeeper gently suggested I cover up, and I bought a lightweight scarf to drape over my shoulders. It wasn’t about judgment—it was about respect. Now, I always research cultural norms, from dress codes in Dubai to tipping etiquette in Japan. A quick Google search on local customs, visa requirements, or even scam warnings can save you from awkward (or costly) moments.

4. Another classic blunder? Ignoring the budget. On a whim, I booked a fancy dinner in Paris overlooking the Eiffel Tower. It was stunning—until the bill arrived. I’d blown half my week’s budget on one meal. I spent the next few days eating baguettes and free museum days, which, honestly, wasn’t the worst. But I learned to plan my spending. Apps like Trail Wallet or a simple spreadsheet help track expenses. Mix splurges (like that gondola ride in Venice) with budget-friendly options (street food in Hanoi). Travelling doesn’t have to break the bank if you’re smart about it.

5. Then there’s the trap of overplanning. In Italy, I had every minute scheduled—Colosseum at 9 a.m., Pantheon by 11, gelato at noon. By day two, I was exhausted, snapping at my travel buddy, and barely enjoying Rome. A local barista told me to slow down, sip my espresso, and just be. I ditched the itinerary, wandered Trastevere’s cobblestone streets, and stumbled into a tiny jazz bar. Magic. Now, I plan a few must-dos but leave room for spontaneity. Whether it’s a hidden café in Lisbon or a street festival in Rio, the best moments are often unplanned.

6. On the flip side, not planning enough can bite you. In New Zealand, I assumed I could “wing it” with accommodations during peak season. Nope. I ended up sleeping in a rental car outside Queenstown because every hostel, hotel, and Airbnb was booked. It was less “adventure” and more “why didn’t I book ahead?” Now, I secure at least my first night’s stay and key activities, like that helicopter tour over Franz Josef Glacier. A little planning gives you a safety net without killing the vibe.

7. Let’s talk about ignoring local scams. In Barcelona, a charming “tour guide” offered to show me La Sagrada Familia’s “secret spots.” I handed over €20, and—surprise—he vanished. I felt like an idiot, but it taught me to be sceptical—research common scams, like fake taxis in Istanbul or “friendship bracelets” in Paris. Keep your valuables secure, use trusted booking platforms like Viator or GetYourGuide, and trust your gut. If it feels off, it probably is.

8. Another big travel mistake I’ve made? Not learning basic phrases. In Japan, I got hopelessly lost in Osaka’s Dotonbori district. I couldn’t read the signs and didn’t know how to ask for help. A kind stranger eventually guided me, but I felt helpless. Now, I learn a few words—hello, thank you, where’s the bathroom?—before every trip. Apps like Duolingo or even YouTube tutorials make it easy. In Peru, saying “gracias” with a smile opened doors (and got me extra alpaca wool from a market vendor). It’s a small effort that shows respect and makes connections.

9. Then there’s relying too much on technology. In Vietnam, my phone died during a motorbike tour in Ha Long Bay. No Google Maps, no translation app, no backup plan. I was stranded until a fellow traveller lent me their charger. Now, I carry a portable charger, a paper map, and write down key addresses. Technology’s great, but batteries die, and Wi-Fi isn’t guaranteed in the jungles of Costa Rica or the deserts of Jordan.

10. Finally, the biggest mistake of all: not being present. In Santorini, I was so obsessed with getting the perfect Instagram shot of those blue-domed churches that I barely noticed the sunset’s colours or the smell of fresh tzatziki from a nearby taverna. A local kid laughed at me, tripod and all, and realised I was missing the moment. Now, I put the phone down. I savour the crunch of falafel in Amman, the sound of flamenco in Seville, the feel of warm sand in Bali. Travelling is about living, not curating.

So, there you have it, my top 10 travel mistakes, learned through sweat, tears, and a few laughs. Whether it’s packing smarter, respecting local cultures, or just chilling out, these lessons have made me a better traveller. Next time you’re jetting off to Sydney, Seoul, or somewhere closer to home, keep these in mind. Plan a little, wing it a little, and soak it all in. Got a travel horror story of your own? Drop it in the comments, I’d love to hear how you turned a mistake into a memory.

Safe travels, friends. The world’s waiting.