Traveling to another country can be intimidating. For me, I had barely traveled within the US, much less to other countries. A couple weeks ago, I traveled internationally for the first time and it was wonderful. While it was wonderful, here are some tips I wish I would have known before traveling:

1. Pack light

There is nothing worse than trying to pull multiple suitcases around an airport and around cities while traveling. Try to pack the minimum. It will allow you to travel light and move quickly!

2. Give yourself relaxation time on day one

On day one, allow yourself time to defeat jet lag. No one wants to try to sightsee when exhausted and cranky. Taking time will allow your body to adjust and give you some much-needed relaxation.

3. Don't have a jam-packed itinerary

When traveling you want to see as much as possible in a short time span. Make sure to give yourself time to breathe and relax. Sometimes you will need a moment to take it all in. Also, you don't want to be sprinting from one place to another the entire time.

4. Take time to take it all in

Travelling can be rushed and busy. Take moments throughout the journey to truly take it all in. Take that selfie. Breathe in the air. Enjoy your experience.

5. Meet the locals

Go to local pubs. Local restaurants. Talk to the locals. Locals are amazing. Great conversation and information.

6. Don't fall for tourist traps

Certain locations will charge a ridiculous amount of money see a landmark or building. While some can be cool, there are a lot of amazing things you can see without paying a lot of money!

7. Take all the pictures

At first, I laughed at all the pictures my husband was taking. Now I am so happy to have them. Traveling to Ireland was a once in a lifetime opportunity for us! I am so happy to have the memories.

Travelling can be one of the most amazing experiences of your life. Enjoy it. Take it all in. While traveling to a new country can be scary, it is a wonderful experience. Take the risk. Travel. Explore. Live.