Setting off with a folder of tickets, a handful of sucky sweets and a backpack the size of a German Shepherd to a foreign country is a daunting yet thrilling experience. No amount of research can prepare you, because realistically they all state the obvious – don’t go down dark alleys, don’t get in a van with strangers and most importantly DO leave the Crocs at home!

Whether it’s trekking through the Amazon rainforest in Colombia, exploring the night life on Koh San Road in Bangkok or ‘finding yourself’ in India, travel is a great way to meet new people and try new things.

Below is a list I’ve compiled on tips I wish I knew before my first backpacking trip.

You did it!

What's the most frustrating thing when it comes to flying? The long journey, the discomfort of the plane, the jet lag? There is a case to be made for all these however one thing springs to mind as being more notable than the rest. That’s it you guess it, delayed flights! Nothing can upset your mood or plans more than potentially wasting up to 12 hours of your time waiting for your flight to haul. But not to worry, with every cloud there is a silver lining and we've got ten of them! Here are ten things you can do to occupy your time whilst your flight has been delayed.

Mont-Saint-Michel

Have you ever wondered what to put into your suitcase whenever going to Ireland? I always deal with this as I am a really bad packer, always forgetting essentials. As everybody knows, Ireland is a rainy country, but optimistic people as I would think that in spring the weather would turn better and there is no need for the umbrella all the time. That is not true. Don't bring spring clothes, you are not going to be able to wear a dress or short pants! These clothes will just be a lump in your closet and you'll never be able to put them on. The weather here tends to be more or less similar throughout the year, mainly rainy every day! Therefore, in your suitcase, you will have to put clothes with the same style: warm clothes.

Want to explore Europe but don’t have enough money? I urge you to read this entire blog post if you want to save hundreds of euros when exploring Europe. Europe is an amazing continent with so many different places to experience. The problem is that travelling from country to country is expensive! Sadly, I learned this the hard way and was not smart with my money on my first couple trips in Europe. I am writing this blog so others do not make the same mistake with their money and have the ability to visit as many different countries as possible on a cheap budget!

Greece is a great holiday destination for families, friends and couples. Only a short flight from Dublin airport with Ryanair operating daily flights in the summer months, it’s a great excuse to go island hopping without travelling outside Europe.

All European students have the opportunity to be able to study abroad. I'll give you 9 reasons to do it. And why not 10? Because the last reason belongs only to you! And because I don't like even numbers …