Traveling abroad with a group—whether it’s a student ensemble, choir, or educational tour—is exciting and rewarding. But successful travel takes preparation, patience, and a few insider strategies. These essential travel tips from Music Contact International’s experienced tour managers will help you stay comfortable, organized, and ready for every adventure that comes your way.
Before You Go
Travel Tip #1: Pack Light
You are responsible for your own luggage throughout the tour—from your airport to your destination city and back again. Lighten your load to make travel days easier, especially in historic European hotels where elevators may be limited. Just imagine having to lug a heavy suitcase up two flights of winding, narrow stairs, or navigating the notoriously crowded sidewalks on the way to your hotel. When it comes to packing, less truly is more.
Travel Tip #2: Pack Extra Underwear
It’s small, lightweight, and always useful—enough said!
Travel Tip #3: Roll Your Clothes
Rolling clothes instead of folding them saves space, keeps outfits organized, and reduces wrinkles. A simple change that makes packing—and unpacking—a breeze. Once you roll, you'll never go back.
Travel Tip #4: Bring an External Battery
Keep your devices charged throughout the day. An external battery ensures your phone, camera, and navigation tools are always ready when you need them. By planning ahead, you can keep your good mood alive, even if your battery dies.
Travel Tip #5: Notify Your Bank and Credit Card Company
Let them know your travel dates and destinations. This helps prevent your card from being frozen while you’re abroad.
Travel Tip #6: Activate an International Phone Plan
Check with your phone provider before departure. A small fee for an international plan can save you from huge roaming charges.
While Traveling
Travel Tip #7: Be Patient and Flexible
Travel is about the journey, not just the destination, and patience is your best travel companion. Flights get delayed, buses run late, and itineraries may shift—but flexibility makes the experience smoother. Remember: the best travel memories often come from unexpected moments.
Travel Tip #8: Carry-On Essentials
Keep your carry-on stocked with essentials: medications, electronics, travel documents, a toothbrush, and one change of clothes. If luggage is delayed, you’ll be glad you did.
(See our post: “In-Flight Items We Love” for more tips.)
Travel Tip #9: Bring Earplugs
Noise can interrupt rest on flights or in hotels. A good pair of earplugs can make the difference between exhaustion and feeling refreshed.
Travel Tip #10: Stay Hydrated
Bring a refillable water bottle and drink regularly. Staying hydrated helps with jet lag and overall energy.
During Your Tour
Travel Tip #11: Beat Jet Lag
Adjust your sleep schedule to local time as soon as you arrive. Get sunlight, move around, and try to stay awake until evening to help your body adapt.
Travel Tip #12: Use a Map
Don’t hesitate to use a map or ask for directions. Looking like a tourist is far better than getting lost in an unfamiliar neighborhood. Embrace exploration with confidence.
Travel Tip #13: Ask Locals for Recommendations
Locals are your best resource for discovering hidden gems—restaurants, bakeries, and coffee shops you won’t find in guidebooks. Their advice often leads to the most authentic experiences.
Travel Tip #14: Try New Foods
Be adventurous with your meals. European cuisine varies by region, and some of the best dishes are the ones you’ve never heard of. Try first, ask later. You might discover a new favorite!
Travel Tip #15: Learn the Local Language
Simple phrases like “Hello,” “Please,” and “Thank you” go a long way in building goodwill. Even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect, locals appreciate the effort. You’ll find that many people are willing to help you out even if they speak a different language. Try using the words you know and hand gestures.
Travel Tip #16: Be Respectful
Cultural differences are part of the adventure. Stay calm and courteous in all interactions with locals, service staff, and festival volunteers, even when language barriers create small challenges.
Travel Tip #17: Write Down Important Details
Electronic devices sometimes die at the most inconvenient times (see #4 about packing external batteries). Write your hotel name, address, and room number on a piece of paper and keep it someplace safe like your wallet. These details can save you stress, especially after a long day of sightseeing.
Travel Tip #18: Wear Comfortable Shoes
You’ll walk more than you expect—often on cobblestones or uneven streets. Supportive shoes are a must for happy feet and happy travels.
Travel Tip #19: Separate Your Money
Keep cash and cards in multiple secure spots. Hide some money and a backup credit/bank card in a separate bag, not the same bag as your wallet. While getting pick-pocketed can be prevented by carrying bags that zip, latch, or even have a lock, you don’t want to risk it, and things can always be accidentally lost in the excitement of travel. By separating your money, you ensure that you won’t find yourself in a tight spot while enjoying your vacation.
Travel Tip #20: Wear Sunscreen
Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins or performing outdoors, protect your skin. No matter the time of year, a little sunscreen goes a long way toward keeping you comfortable.
Ready to Plan Your Performance Tour?
Travel is one of life’s greatest teachers—especially when shared with others. Whether you’re planning a student tour, a choir performance trip, or a cultural exchange, these travel tips will help you make the most of every moment abroad.
Contact Music Contact International to start planning your next custom performance tour for your choir or ensemble. Our tour coordinators handle every detail—so you can focus on creating unforgettable experiences.
