The idea of traveling evokes many feelings in people. Whether it is for business or pleasure, there is always some level of stress involved. Don’t let stress get to you and stop you from enjoying your trip. Read the tips in this article for a safe trip filled with fun.
Dealing with airports is an unfortunate necessity of much modern travel. Pack an empty water bottle to fill after you get through security. This will save you from having to buy a $3.00 bottle of water after you get through the checkpoint. It also never hurts to pack granola bars, banana chips, or anything else to snack on between flights.
In countries that you travel to, be aware of the cultural view of how questions are answered. In some places, especially India and Asia, it can be considered very rude to tell someone that you don’t know the answer to their question. Others may simply answer “yes” to any question asked in English. Pay attention to doubtful body language.
Make a portable washing machine with a plastic bag. Save money by skipping expensive coin-operated washers and dryers when you travel by using a do-it-yourself tip. Find or pack a large and sturdy plastic bag, and add a little laundry soap and water. Put your clothes in the bag, and shake. Drain the soapy water and repeat the process with clean water, then hang the clothes to dry.
Camping is a popular vacation pastime, but with the extensive equipment it requires it is not a cheap one. Before deciding to invest in all the gear necessary for extended camping travel, it is best to “get your feet wet” by making short day hikes at nearby nature attractions to see if the camping lifestyle really appeals to you.
If you are traveling by car for several days, think about researching fitness classes in the cities that you are driving through. Stopping at a rest stop can help you get out of the car and stretch, but joining a class at a yoga or fitness studio will let you meet people and check out the town. Look for companies that allow walk-ins and have fun!
Check what types of documents are needed for entry in your country of destination. A passport alone, does not guarantee entry into every country. While some accept a passport alone, others may have special requirements (such as unstamped pages in your passport book), and some require you to possess a visa.
Choose a hotel that has public transportation readily available and where the security is good. Check your room when you check in to make sure that all of the windows lock as well as the doors. Ask hotel security to accompany you to the parking lot if you do not feel comfortable in the area.
When on a road trip with a toddler, try to start your trips nearer to the afternoon. Many times, young children will give you problems if you head out too early. Most toddlers will be ready for their nap in the afternoon and will be less likely to act up on any trip, when they are fast asleep.
When traveling on a road trip with children, be sure to pack games for the ride. The items should not weigh too much or be too difficult to clean up. Dry erase boards, cards and activity books are all excellent choices. You are much more likely to have a peaceful, enjoyable ride if your children stay entertained.
When you are packing for a trip, put smaller objects, like shampoos and medications, in see-through plastic bags. This will make it easier for you to find what you are looking for. It will also help save time if you are traveling internationally and customs wants to look through your luggage.
If you are traveling abroad, it is a good idea to consult with a health professional that is knowledgeable of the health climate in your destination country. There may be vaccinations you need for diseases that are uncommon in your home country. There might also be laws concerning which medications are legal for you to bring with you, and if you have a medical condition using such medications, you will have to prepare accordingly.
Understand that there are going to be a lot of distractions and noises on your flight, so come prepared with an eye mask and ear plugs. This will allow you to sleep in darkness and reduce any of the external noise that could cause a commotion when you are trying to rest.
A tip we all forget, change the bed sheets if you are staying somewhere more than a few days. While on vacation, we tend to think that we are in a magical world where normal things don’t exist. However, they do, and if we forget about them, you can suffer from ugly infections especially if you are staying in a warm climate. Keep your sheets changes regularly.
Backpacking can be a great alternative for travelling lightly. This type of plan is nearly impossible with a medium sized group and for a large group it is truly a challenge. It works best for two to three people as this size allows for easy changes in plans and more flexibility.
Many of us read the book “Blue Highways” by William Least Heat Moon. It gave a fascinating look at the back roads of America, and is worth remembering when you are planning a trip abroad. Finding those charming out-of-the-way places can give you rich experiences that you will remember for a lifetime. (But be sure to keep safety in mind, also.)
Keep a couple of outfits separate, in your carry on, when traveling. If your luggage is lost the airline likely won’t compensate you for at least twenty four hours. By having a couple of spare outfits in your carry on, you will save yourself from having to buy clothes out of pocket if your luggage doesn’t make it to your destination.
As was stated in the beginning of this article, stress is always a major factor in travel, for various reasons. You don’t have to let it ruin you, instead conquer it by arming yourself with successful travel tips that are sure to make your journey worry-free and safe.
