However you choose to travel, and wherever you choose to travel to, there are a few tips that can come in handy on your journey. This is useful advice that can help with all aspects of your traveling expedition.
Before packing, make a list. Your list should be made well in advance (7-30 days) and should include all of your necessities. Having a list will keep you organized and clutter-free, even if you don’t actually pack until the last minute.
Be flexible when choosing your destination. Travel to places outside your norm. Also, picking new destinations can be a money-saving technique.
Use caution when getting into a taxi in a foreign country. Be certain that the taxi is a real taxi before you enter the car. Anybody can place “taxi” on a car, and you don’t know if they really are or where they could take you.
If you will be traveling with a toddler, be sure to bring items to entertain them. Try to bring along a few favorite toys. It is also a good idea to buy a new toy to take on the trip because it will give your child something to associate the trip with.
Get a good workout in before leaving on a flight. Long flights are taxing on your body and nerves. Sitting in one position for a long period of time can cramp up your legs and back. You will be more relaxed during your flight and can help avoid body aches by stretching before your flight.
When you try to find the best prices on your flights, be sure to check individual airline websites. While you can find low fairs on travel websites such as Travelocity or Kayak, often the best deal is on the airline’s website.
If you’re licensed, consider using a motorcycle for day trips. It’s easy on gas, maneuverable and fun to ride. It can be awesome to travel this way.
When packing light for longer trips, try bringing a softly-lined raincoat. You don’t want to be caught in terrible weather without a way to protect yourself. Your raincoat can be used when it is chilly. You can even use it as a bathrobe when in the hotel.
If you are taking a road trip with children, bring along a cookie sheet or two. These cookie sheets can be a flat surface to put cards or coloring books on. If you have little ones, you can bring magnetic letters and numbers for educational fun.
If you will be using traveler’s checks, try to cash them before heading out to go shopping or to dine. Traveler’s checks can be a pain to work with. You may find yourself getting shorted if you use them, so play it safe and get the local currency before you spend.
Use green services on your trip. There are many hotels which have implemented a linen reuse program, use energy efficient lighting, place recycling bins for guest use, use low flow plumbing and use alternative energy sources. Staying green will help you feel good about your traveling experience.
Consider purchasing a yearly National Park Pass if you plan to visit more than a couple times a year. For fifty dollars, you can visit all the parks all year long.
Long road trips are often dull, so plan things to do on the way. By breaking up the monotony of the drive with more than just bathroom and meal breaks, you can create some fun and anticipation during the drive. To keep the attention of your kids, provide them with a map of the route.
Foreign Currency
It is not a good idea to exchange currency while in a different country. There is an easier way to obtain your foreign currency. Try getting foreign currency at an ATM using your debit card. These usually offer better exchange rates and are much less expensive than an exchange.
A road trip is the perfect opportunity to listen to playlists of your favorite music, so do not forget to bring your CDs or MP3 player with you. Radio reception can be spotty when you travel, with some dead or high static areas, so you will need something on hand to entertain yourself.
If you have a long travel time you should ensure that you give yourself some time to stretch, even if you are getting up for no reason. Sitting for too long reduces blood flow and can lead to blood clots.
Vital Documents
Taking back-up copies of your vital documents is always a good idea when you travel. You want to have copies of your passport, insurance, and other vital documents. Put them in some safe place other than with you. You might also entrust a relative with copies, which you can collect if your originals are stolen or lost.
When traveling, a case for contact lenses can come in handy even if you have 20/20 vision. You can put small amounts of gel or lotion in them if you plan to only use a little bit.
Don’t fall for spam or scams when looking for travel bargains. Do not open these emails, unless you know that these are from a good company with whom you had subscribed to get travel-related news
Ask your airline about their carry-on policy. You should be able to take a carry-on bag and a personal bag, like a purse. Use this to your advantage so that key personal items are always with you.
Plan ahead for international travel by obtaining electrical currency adapters prior to the day of departure. Purchasing one near an airport or hotel can be extremely expensive.
If you are considering bringing your pet on a trip, you need to take the time to research hotels that accommodate pets and any fees that may apply to bringing your pet with you. Check many different places before deciding on where to book your stay, this way you can be sure the needs of your pet are taken care of, as well as your own.
Remember the tips above as you prepare for your travels. By using the advice you’ve just read, your trip is sure to be a smooth and more enjoyable one, every step of the way.