Wanderlust and excitement may flow through your veins, but there’s no denying—the days before your very first international travel can be nerve-racking.

But knowledge is power, so understanding the basic ways you can prepare for the trip will considerably ease your worries.

Here I give you a list of basic tips that will help you get your body, mind, and luggage ready for your first international trip—tailor-made for the plus-sized reader.

1- RESEARCH YOUR DESTINATION.

There is something deeply romantic about exploring the world as it comes, with no plan and no script… But reality cannot afford unpredictability.

Countries differ vastly from one another, so what might be a custom in your homeland, might be offensive—or illegal!—somewhere else.

Likewise, factors like the weather, the altitude, the food, and other elements can differ from what you are used to.

Bottom line? Avoid mishaps—research!

2- STUDY YOUR AIRLINE’S POLICIES FOR PLUS SIZE PASSENGERS.

We all know space runs short on commercial airplanes, so most airlines have policies to handle plus-sized passengers that may be too large to fit comfortably on the tiny seats.

If you suspect the policy may apply to you, make sure to double-check where your airline stands. This way you can be prepared and avoid uncomfortable situations during take-off day.

Just remember—there is no shame in occupying the space your body needs. Airlines just want to maximize their profit by packing as many people as they can.

3- PACK SMART—AND DON’T RELY ON BUYING CLOTHES ON ARRIVAL.

Your luggage is the single most important thing on your trip, other than yourself—it can make or break your vacations, so pack smart.

Ideally, you pack according to your destination’s location, weather, and other specifics. But if you are unsure, follow these two universal rules:

First, tourism requires lots of walking, so pick clothes that fit you comfortably, and trinkets that might make the strenuous activities a bit easier.

Second—and most relevant for us plus-sized folks out there—don’t rely on buying clothes on your destination. Some countries just don’t have big clothes, and you may be left without clothes fit for your body.

Don’t take the risk and pack appropriately, there is no room for improvisation!

4- GET TO THE AIRPORT EARLY.

You should not fear traveling at all, except for one tiny detail— airport customs. This is a major nuisance whether you are skinny or fat; so be ready for any potential problem with your backpack, with your boarding pass, or with the plane itself. The best solution? Get there super early to sort all that stuff out—believe me, you really don’t want to run through the airport to reach your gate in time.

5- GO WITH AN OPEN MIND!

Don’t let fear cloud your mind—exploring the world is exciting, and every corner is worth discovering. Your big size is not a limitation, it’s simply part of who you are.

And who you are? A lucky person that is about to make unforgettable memories, so let’s make sure they are fantastic.