15 Secrets Locals Wish You Knew Before Your Next Adventure
Visiting a new place is fun, but it’s easy to get sucked into tourist traps and miss out on the real thing. Locals often hold the best secrets to having a memorable, meaningful adventure.
According to UN Tourism, in the first seven months of 2024, an estimated 790 million tourists traveled internationally, about 11% more than in 2023. Here are 15 insights locals wish travelers knew before their next big journey, from cultural norms to packing tips.
Embrace Local Culture
There’s nothing that locals love more than when travelers make a real effort to understand and respect their culture. Research cultural norms or learn a couple of everyday phrases of the local language before your trip.
Travelers should try to learn at least some basic phrases of the language spoken in the destination they’re heading to for respect to the local culture.
Pro Tip: Before heading out on your trip, mastering conversational basics starts with apps like Duolingo or Google Translate. Knowing how to say “thank you” or “please” can go a long way in earning goodwill.
Avoid Tourist Traps
Of course, there’s a pull to stick to backpacker vices, the well-known tourist trap, and yet, it’s usually more rewarding to tread outside of the beaten path. Locals and regular travelers often recommend looking for great places off the beaten path, especially in the local neighborhoods.
A whopping 57% of tourists state that visiting non-touristy areas allows them to experience more authentic travel. You may have heard of some iconic attractions you want to see, but don’t forget to mix them up with local favorites.
Pro Tip: If you ask locals or your Airbnb host, they’ll know where to find the good stuff without the crowds.
Use Public Transportation
Don’t take expensive taxis or tour buses; take public transport. Did you know cities like Tokyo and Singapore have some of the world’s most efficient and reliable public transit systems? Public transport saves you money and gives you a glimpse of local life.
Pro Tip: For real-time updates and routes, download transit apps for the city you’re visiting.
Try Local Cuisine
One way to understand a region’s culture is through food. Pass on international chain restaurants and hop into local restaurants instead. Diners are choosing food experiences that fit the narrative of culinary tourism.
Pro Tip: Use apps like TripAdvisor or Google Reviews to find top-rated local restaurants or take a food tour to sample authentic dishes and learn the story behind them.
Pack Appropriately
Thoughtfully packing can make a difference in your travels. Not only is overpacking a pain because your luggage is heavy, but it also gives you less flexibility. But underpacking could mean you are not ready.
Pro Tip: Pack versatile outfits, comfortable walking shoes, a reusable water bottle, and a lightweight jacket, no matter where you’re headed.
Learn About Entry Requirements
A seamless trip starts with knowing what’s needed to enter your destination country. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) said that in 2023, nearly 23% of travelers worldwide remained stuck in airport check-ins due to incorrect or incomplete visa documents.
Pro Tip: Ensure you have all the documents you need and be aware of local COVID travel regulations on sites like iVisa or via tools like the IATA Travel Pass.
Stay in Local Neighborhoods
Avoid staying in touristy hotspots; find a neighborhood that will give you a more authentic experience. According to Airbnb studies, travelers in these settings are three times more likely to spend their money in local businesses than in a tourist community, literally supporting the community.
Pro Tip: Use neighborhood-focused websites like Plum Guide or Agoda to find boutique hotels, guesthouses, or homestays.
Respect Sacred Sites
Cultural centerpieces are usually sacred landmarks and religious sites. UNESCO advises visitors to be modest in clothes and not to disrespect them inadvertently. When visitors respect the site’s rules and sacredness, the locals are much more welcoming.
Pro Tip: Keep a scarf or shawl in your bag for cover in those modest times.
Support Local Businesses
If you don’t shop at chains or mass market outlets, consider shopping at local artisans and vendors instead. SMEs represent a vital part of the tourism sector, as recently confirmed by the World Travel & Tourism Council, according to which 60% of the industry comprises small and medium enterprises.
Pro Tip: Rather than buying something mass-produced from a chain store in the tourist areas, seek out weekend markets, co-ops, and artisan shops for your authentic, handmade souvenir.
Be Mindful of Peak Seasons
The shoulder season (travel during the months leading up to and after the peak tourist periods) is a great time to travel as it saves you some dough and lets you avoid overcrowded tourist attractions. Peak season is the worst time to travel as it also means higher costs and less freedom to explore.
Pro Tip: Research the weather patterns and seasonal trends before booking to maximize your trip.
Use Local SIM Cards
Buy a local SIM card to avoid hefty roaming charges. GSMA reported in 2022 that switching to local SIM cards can lower the cost of mobile data by up to 80%.
Pro Tip: Avoid buying SIM cards from airport kiosks. Instead, buy them from local shops or convenience stores offering better pricing.
Engage with Locals
Reach out to residents, and you’ll find that it enhances your experience. From getting recommendations to sharing stories, meaningful conversations can give a perspective on your destination you didn’t know you were missing.
Pro Tip: Find like-minded people through platforms such as Couchsurfing or by attending local meetups.
Participate in Local Events
One of the best ways to introduce yourself to local culture and traditions is to attend a local festival, market, or community gathering. Travelers agree that attending local events truly enhances their experience.
Pro Tip: Use Facebook Events or call out local blogs for past and upcoming events for your destination.
Be Flexible with Your Itinerary
Traveling means spontaneity! If you’re too rigid in your itinerary, you miss out on fleeting opportunities that surface while you’re on the road.
Pro Tip: Give yourself room to take recommendations from new friends or sudden detours to unforeseen sights.
Pack Light and Smart
Life on the go can be easier with versatile clothing, packing cubes, and a carry-on suitcase. While your trip may have multiple stops, frequent travelers swear by the convenience of this option.
Pro Tip: Keep chargers, snacks, and other essential documents easily accessible all the time.
Seeing the sights is just one part of the experience—it’s truly about connecting with people, cultures, and experiences.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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