Despite the excitement, traveling can make you very anxious. Luckily, there are a number of ways to prepare. Below you will find some solid ideas on how to ensure that your next trip goes according to plan.
Rather than exchanging dollars for the currency of the country in which you are traveling, use an ATM. The banks generally have access to superior exchange rates. This can save you a great deal of money.
If you have to buy a camera for your trip, think carefully before you buy. If you plan to do some backpacking, you might not want a rechargeable battery. Try to find a digital camera you can turn on and focus quickly. You don’t want to miss anything memorable.
If you are worried about someone entering your room at night, you should bring a door stop with you. Most people use doorstops to prop their doors open, but you can also use them to hold a door shut.
Whenever possible, purchase tickets for admission to attractions online, then print them instantly or opt for will-call. There is generally a fee associated with an online ticket purchase. However, it is a small one, and the trade off for skipping long ticket lines is a big advantage. If the park uses a timed entry system, you won’t need to wait in line to enter, either.
Traveling afar sometimes makes you want to bring parts of your home along. Only take the things you truly need. List all the ones you typically use each day and that you really need. Pack your items based on importance and necessity.
It is customary to tip any hotel staff that makes your stay easier. Standard tips are generally $1 for each piece of luggage, and $2-$5 for the housekeeper each day of your stay. You will find that this simple act will make your stay overall that much better, and the people who work there will go out of their way to please you.
Try to wear comfortable and light shoes when air traveling – shoes that you can slip out of easily. Most of the time, airport security will ask you to briefly remove them. The most important thing is comfort. You are not going to have to do as much walking as you will sitting in most cases, so the heavy-duty support isn’t really that necessary. Sandals of flip-flops are great when traveling by air.
Place contact and information on the inside and outside of your luggage. Luggage tags are often ripped off during travel. If your luggage ever gets lost without a tag, it helps to have identifying information within the bag itself so you can get it back faster.
Stores tend to overcharge for these items, and the space saved is minimal, so save the money. Try out some folding techniques which will safe space and allow you to take less baggage along with you. By applying these methods of packing, you will have considerable more space in your luggage.
Join forums and social websites centered around travel. You will pick up some great tips from other travelers that way. You can learn what NOT to do on your travels, and you may even pick up a new friend in the process!
You always want to be prepared for unexpected emergencies when traveling, such as losing a passport. The United States Department of State has a site that has info on how to get in touch with the US Embassy in case you need it. This information should be with you at all times. Your passport will be done in a few days.
If you will be using traveler’s checks, try to cash them before heading out to go shopping or to dine. Even though many places do accept these checks, often times it can be a complicated mess. Rather than using these, get local currency to spend.
When you travel across time zones, jet lag becomes an issue. You can lessen the impact by sleeping more than usual a few days before you take off. Also, try and sleep as much as you can during your flight.
If you are worried about leaving items behind, consider using a dry-erase marker to leave notes on the mirror. It will serve as a great reminder. You can use toilet paper to remove your note from the mirror. How easy is that?
Bring travel candles with you when you are staying in a hotel. It will add a pleasant aroma to your room. Not only is it romantic, it will relax you and help you to fall asleep. These candles are dripless and are available in travel sizes.
When taking a long road trip, prepare for any necessary service stops. It’s not uncommon to drive down long strips of road without any visible service for miles and miles. This can be a problem if something should happen to your vehicle along the way. Plan your route around repair places that can fix your car if need be. Keep their phone numbers close at hand as you travel.
Weather is a powerful consideration when planning any trip. Be aware of typical weather conditions at your destination and plan accordingly. Don’t let your warm weather vacation be ruined by a cold front or find yourself at a ski resort with no snow.
Traveling is supposed to be a great experience, so try to not worry about the potential pitfalls. Use the tips here and have a great vacation. Rather than being concerned about things that can go wrong when traveling, think about the wonderful memories you will make.