I’ve compiled the best travel hacks and insights from 15 years of globetrotting so you can save money, avoid mistakes, and travel like an expert!
I’ve definitely encountered my fair share of travel-related lessons, such as the time I let my guard down and was mugged on a train or the time Scott and I arrived at the Bozeman Airport only to discover that we were no longer able to rent a car.
Some of these travel mistakes can be prevented, while others are unavoidable. You can’t possibly plan for everything. However, remembering a few crucial details will make your journey lot simpler.
What should I know before I travel is a question we get asked quite a bit. or “What is your best piece of advice?” Therefore, we compiled the dos and don’ts of travelling into this list of essential travel advice for everyone.
1. Show flexibility
We always account for delays and work to maintain composure when things inevitably go wrong. When travelling, patience is crucial.
2. Create A List
I compile a mental list of things I don’t want to forget about a week or so before every trip because I WILL forget them if I don’t write them down. I’ve discovered that I need to put my thoughts in writing as soon as I get them.
3. Acquire A Basic Knowledge Of The Local Language
A simple “Please,” “Thank you,” and “I’m sorry” in the local tongue go a long way. I prefer to learn the word for beer as well, but that’s just me.
4. Constantly Carry A Sarong
A sarong can be worn in a variety of ways, including as a towel, a curtain, a wrap for when you’re cold, and as clothes. While I love sarongs with patterns, solid colours are also fantastic if you want something that stands out.
5. Constantly get travel insurance
Your money could be completely wiped out by a medical emergency, or worse. For travel insurance, we rely on and use World Nomads.
6. Bring extra undergarments
Since underwear is so little, it’s always a good idea to have a few spare pairs on hand. Another choice is to bring these quick-dry underpants so you can wash them conveniently when travelling.
7. Make Your Outfits in Advance
Due to my laziness and propensity for packing at the last minute, I frequently go on vacation wearing just all-black or all-gray clothes. I wish I had spent more time packing when I look back at the pictures.
8. Pack your carry-on with electronics, medications, and toothbrush
Your carry-on should always contain a few essential items. If you’re going on a beach trip, you should bring a swimsuit as well. Having these items in your carry-on will save you money and time if your luggage is lost in transit even though you can purchase most of these items if your bag is misplaced.
9. Drink Water While Flying
At 30,000 feet, I know it’s enjoyable to get intoxicated, but it’s also a lot simpler to become dehydrated. Additionally, staying hydrated is helpful for overcoming jet lag, particularly on lengthy journeys.
10. Consult Locals.
We frequently ask the locals to recommend the best cafes, restaurants, and places to catch the sunset. But I like to let folks know what kind of cuisine I’m desiring. Some interesting restaurants that I wouldn’t have chosen on my own have been directed to me.
11. Inform Your Credit Card Company And Bank Of Your Travel Plans
If you don’t want your bank or credit card company to put a hold on your card while you are travelling abroad, this is an excellent habit to get into.
12. Plan Ahead for Low Cost Flights.
I always reserve my flights first when making travel plans, often more than a year in advance! The majority of the time, the earlier you book, the better deal you’ll get. Unless there is a bargain, plane tickets rarely become less expensive (or an airline pricing error).
13. First Aid Kit for Travel.
Aspirin, Benadryl, cold medications, Tums, cough drops, bandages, Activated Charcoal pills (which are a lifesaver for traveler’s diarrhoea and minor allergic reactions), Neosporin, and other items that we might not always have easy access to when travelling are included in our little first aid kit. J&J offers a modestly priced miniature first aid kit.
14. Reserve refundable hotel rooms ahead of time.
I’m not one of those travellers who likes to make last-minute travel arrangements. When travel was less common than it is now, I think this was simpler in the past. You should make travel arrangements at least six months in advance if you’re visiting a well-known or well-liked location, especially if you’ll be there during its peak season.
15. Make Activity and Tour Reservations.
Booking tours in advance is a good idea if you’re going to a well-known location and you know exactly which one you want to take. During the busiest season, attractions like Antelope Canyon and experiences like swimming with pigs fill up quickly.
16. Carry a small bag to hold dirty laundry.
I normally bring a little wash bag when I travel, but you could also use your Scrubba Portable Wash Bag instead to keep your filthy garments segregated from your clean ones. For further odour control, I prefer to add a dryer sheet to the bag.
17. Carry a compact, foldable backpack for sightseeing.
On extended day trips, I typically bring a large camera bag that I don’t want to carry about, so I pack this little folding daypack in my suitcase to hold everything I’ll need for the day once I get there, including my photographic equipment.
18. To Get the Best Deals, Travel Off-Season.
During the shoulder season, you can get some excellent offers. However, if this is a once-in-a-lifetime trip and you want the best chance of excellent weather, it can occasionally be preferable to spend a little bit more than have the weather wreck your entire trip.
