How to Plan Your First International Trip from India?

Dreaming of that first international trip?
Youre not alone.
With visa-free countries, budget airlines, and endless travel inspiration online, going abroad is easier than ever.

Heres a step-by-step breakdown to help plan your international trip from Indiawithout the stress.

1. Choose the Right Destination

Not every country is easy or affordable to visit from India.
Start with destinations that are:

• Visa-free or visa-on-arrival for Indian passport holders

• Budget-friendly in terms of flights and daily expenses

• Safe and easy to navigate

Popular choices for beginners:

• Thailand great food, beaches, and nightlife

• Dubai (UAE) luxury, shopping, desert tours

• Vietnam culture, nature, and cheap travel

• Singapore clean, safe, family-friendly

• Bali (Indonesia) peaceful, scenic, romantic

2. Sort Out the Visa

Check if your destination requires a visa and how to apply.
There are three types:

• Visa-free just show your passport (e.g., Bhutan, Nepal)

• Visa on Arrival fill forms at the airport (e.g., Maldives, Sri Lanka)

• Pre-approved visa apply before travel (e.g., Europe, USA, UK)

Tips:

• Apply early, especially for Schengen or US visas

• Prepare key documents: passport, photos, flight itinerary, hotel bookings, bank statements, cover letter for visa, etc.

• Some countries accept a dummy flight ticket for visa purposesuse it wisely

3. Budget Your Trip

An international trip doesnt have to be expensive.
Break down your travel costs into:

• Flights book early and use comparison tools

• Accommodation choose hostels, budget hotels, or Airbnb

• Local transport metros, buses, or Grab/Uber in Southeast Asia

• Food eat local to save money

• Activities pre-book online for discounts

Rough cost example (per person for 5 days):

• Thailand: ?35,000 ?50,000

• Dubai: ?50,000 ?80,000

• Europe (budget): ?90,000+

4. Get Travel Insurance

Dont skip this.
Travel insurance covers:

• Medical emergencies

• Lost baggage or passport

• Trip cancellations

Some visas (like Schengen) require insurance.
Its a small cost that can save big money.

5. Book Smart

Flights:

• Use tools like Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Hopper

• Book 12 months in advance for short-haul, 3+ months for long-haul

• Avoid weekends or peak season (like New Year)

Stay:

• Compare prices on Booking.com, Agoda, and Hostelworld

• Check guest reviews and safety ratings

• Try hostels or homestays for local vibes

6. Pack Right

Documents:

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months)

• Visa printout

• Flight itinerary for visa

• Proof of accommodation

• Travel insurance

• Dummy flight ticket for visa

• ID, some cash in USD, and international card

Essentials:

• Adapter plugs

• Medicines

• Lightweight clothes

• Power bank, toiletries, sunglasses

7. Learn Basic Local Info

Before you land:

• Know the currency and exchange rate

• Download offline maps and translators

• Learn a few words like Hello, Thank you, Help

• Check if you need a local SIM or roaming pack

8. Be a Smart Traveller

• Keep digital and physical copies of documents

• Stay alert in crowded places

• Respect local customs and dress codes

• Dont rely only on cardcarry small cash

• Stay connected with family and share your itinerary

Final Thoughts

Your first international trip from India is always special.
Whether it's a short trip to Thailand or a dream Euro tour, planning is everything.
Pick the right country, get your visa sorted, and travel light.

You dont need a big budgetjust a clear plan, a valid passport, and a sense of adventure.

The world is waiting. Go see it.