Here is a list of tips that will help you with your travel planning, travel packing, travel mindset, etc.
I've compiled this list based on my travel experiences and is by no means exhaustive.
Travel Planning Tips
1. Book your flight in advance to get best price
Try to book your flight 60 to 90 days in advance to get the best price.
2. Use flight search engines
I use Google Flights to find the best flights/airlines and best dates to fly to a destination.
3. Research best neighborhood for your stay
Research which is the best and the safest neighborhood to stay as a visitor before you book your hotel/hostel. This info can be found on travel blogs, travel forums, or websites like bestlocationhotels.com
4. Get travel insurance
Always travel with a travel insurance to cover for any medical emergencies
5. Book tickets in advance for very popular attractions
Make sure to reserve your tickets online ahead of time for the most popular attractions to skip the long queues. If you're travelling for limited days then booking in advance is even more crucial to ensure you don't miss out on anything.
6. Try to arrive at your destination during daytime
Try to arrive at your destination during daytime for safety. Know before you arrive, what is the best way to reach your hotel/hostel from the airport/railway station.
7. Understand visa requirements few months before departure
Research the visa requirements for your destination few months before your departure
8. Research about the currency used at the destination
Research about the currency used at the destination. Whenever possible, opt for a debit or credit card that doesn't charge foreign transaction fees. Also carry an extra debit/credit card as a backup.
You should also carry cash for certain transactions. Generally, you'll find that using an ATM at your destination offers better exchange rates than exchanging money at the airport. Just know before hand what would be the charges incurred for using the ATM.
Travel Packing Tips
1. Carry universal travel adapter
Don't forget to carry universal travel adapter for your devices
2. Use packing cubes
Use packing cubes and ziploc bags to stay organized during travel
3. Carry eye masks and ear plugs
Carry eye masks and earplugs to help you sleep better during your travels
4. Invest in high-quality daypack
Invest in a high-quality daypack for your day trips/excursions
5. Invest in high-quality footwear
Since you'll be walking a lot, invest in high-quality footwear to protect your feet
6. Carry sunscreen
Make sure to bring sunscreen to shield your skin from UV rays. When you're at high altitudes, using sunscreen can help you avoid sunburns.
7. Carry a good quality sunglasses
Carry a good quality sunglasses to protect your eyes for harmful UV rays
8. Plan your outfits
Planning your outfits while packing will help you decide and pack only things that you'll wear
9. Pack a quick-dry microfiber towel
A quick-dry microfiber towel can be very handy while travelling and is much more hygienic compared to using hotel/hostel towel
10. Make a master checklist of things to pack
Make a master packing checklist which you can refer anytime. I've created my checklist in "Google Keep" app. Using this checklist will make sure that you don't forget things to carry
Travel Mindset Tips
1. Be flexible with your travel plans
Be flexible with your travel itinerary. Often, some of the best memories happen when you've the flexibility to do some spontaneous things. Keep some days free and unplanned while travelling.
2. Have patience
Have lots of patience. The pace at which things function at your destination may not match what you're accustomed to.
3. Be respectful
Always be respectful of the local people, their traditions, and their way of life.
4. Read up about your destination
Learn about the country you're planning to visit. Having a historical context will help you to understand and appreciate the place much better
5. Learn some local language
Learn some basic phrases in the local language.
6. Go with the flow
Embrace the journey as you travel. Challenges are bound to arise, but try to accept the experience and focus on finding solutions.
7. Write a journal
Write a journal while travelling to document your travel experiences and insights you've gained for personal growth. Along with photos the journal will also help you preserve your travel memories.
8. Have gratitude
Be thankful for the opportunity to travel. Consider each travel moment as sacred and try to be fully present in the moment
Be thankful for the opportunity to travel. Consider each travel moment as sacred and try to be fully present in the moment
9. Go Slowly
When you're on a short trip, go slow and aim to accomplish just a couple of activities each day. Leave some time free to explore spontaneously—whether that means strolling around, relaxing in a café, or striking up a conversation with a fellow traveler. By taking your time, you may create many more cherished memories.
During Travel
1. Join a walking tour
Try to begin your exploration of a city by participating in a guided walking tour. Many of these tours are offered for free, with the expectation that participants will give tips. The tour will enhance your understanding of the place, and the recommendations from the tour guide will be helpful in planning the rest of your stay.
2. Stay healthy
To maintain your health while traveling, prioritize good hygiene, enjoy a balanced diet, incorporate regular exercise, and ensure you get enough sleep. Remember to wash your hands before meals and keep hand sanitizer handy during your journeys.
3. Get a local sim card
Consider picking up a local SIM card or eSIM for your phone if possible. It can be incredibly useful to have affordable data while traveling, making it easier to use maps, discover restaurants, send messages, and make calls.
4. Avoid hailing taxis when possible
If possible it's best to steer clear of hailing taxis to ensure your safety and avoiding potential taxi scams. If you have access to it, consider using an online cab service like Uber instead which are comparatively safer.
5. Use translation app
Using a translation app such as Google Translate can be really useful when you want to talk to a local person who doesn't speak a language you're familiar with.
6. Visit local markets
Explore the local markets to experience the vibrant culture firsthand. You can also find unique local products at much more affordable prices there.
7. Stay hydrated
Make sure to pack water and a few snacks in your daypack.
8. Give sleep priority
Give priority to your sleep to overcome jet-lag and keep your immunity strong during travels.
9. Dress in layers
Dressing in layers is a great way to adjust to changing temperatures and weather throughout the day. Make sure to check the weather forecast each morning before you head out from your hotel, so you can pack what you need.
10. Do online check-in before flying
To avoid long lines and stress at the airport, make sure to check in online for your flights before you travel. Typically, online check-in becomes available 24 hours prior to your departure.
11. Stay vigilant with personal items
Stay vigilant with your personal items, like your backpack and purse, to prevent theft and pickpocketing.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on these travel tips! Feel free to share your own helpful travel advice in the comments section below.
(Airport departure board photo at the top by JESHOOTS.COM on Unsplash)
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