Traveling is a popular hobby with huge benefits, from learning about other cultures to creating memories that last a lifetime. Whether you visit the next city over or fly to far-flung continents, though, traveling can be a lot more enjoyable if you keep a few things in mind. Read on for some tips to enhance your travel experiences.
Roll your clothes when packing your bags for a trip. Rolling your clothes up tightly actually saves a great deal of space when packing. Just make sure you begin packing, at least, several days before you need to have all your luggage ready. Rushing leads to very inefficient packing.
If you are planning to fly, make sure that you purchase your ticket under the same exact name that is on your identification. Airport security has increased these past years and you don’t want to get to the airport and realize that you are not allowed to fly because your ID doesn’t match up to your ticket.
If you are traveling to a developing country and are afraid of flying into the middle of nowhere, there are alternatives. You can land at a Western-style airport and use ground transport, such as the train or bus, to arrive at your final destination. This may be safer than flying through the bush but will still allow you to enjoy your exotic vacation.
If a hotel charges for internet access, ask for a room on a lower floor. Sometimes you will get lucky and be able to snag wireless capabilities from nearby cafes or lobbies. The bottom floor is the best to be able to do this, but it is not unheard of to be able to reach it from the second floor.
Always look up recent reviews to the travel destinations and hotels that you plan on visiting. The more reviews a place has, the more reliable it is and the easier you can figure out if the place is one you want to stay at. If the review has photos, even better. Pictures tell more than words can, most times.
If you must travel with your four-legged friend, rest assured that there are many pet friendly options available. Many airlines will allow your dog or cat to fly with you for a small fee. Check with the airlines to see who is offering the best deals, and what each airline requires for K9 travel.
Consider picking up take-out menus and using them as your travel souvenirs. If you eat at a particularly great place, ask for a copy of the menu and write down what you ate on it. These menus can help you remember what you enjoyed and even allow you to seek out similar meals in your area.
Be sure to take some form of entertainment for the kids. Consider a portable DVD player and some headphones or a laptop computer that is loaded with games and movies to keep them happy during the flight. You will be glad that you have found a way to keep them entertained while you travel to your destination.
Ask for a room located on a higher floor. Ground floor rooms are easier for thieves to access. Do not get a room that has doors that slide. These large, glass doors are extremely easy to break into.
Get a credit card that is associated with your favorite airline or hotel so that you can earn miles or reservations. Often the bonus for your first purchase will be enough to get you a free ticket or night’s stay. Be sure you pay off your balance regularly, though, or the card may cost you more than it saves.
Always carry a small notebook and pen when you travel. There are many times when you may need to jot something down, whether they are directions, a new friend’s contact information or reservation confirmation number. By carrying a small pad of paper or notebook and a pencil or pen, you can ensure you are always prepared.
A great travel tip is to bring a door wedge with you whenever you’re staying at a place that makes you feel a little bit uncomfortable. Most hotel rooms have chain link locks but they’re not very sturdy. A simple door wedge in place can keep an unwanted visitor out.
A great travel tip is to always take a look at the mini-bar in your hotel room. If there are bottles or beverages in the mini-bar that aren’t sealed you should contact the front desk and tell them about it so that your account isn’t charged. This simple step can save you money.
Plan out your budget prior to your trip and do your best to stick to it. Don’t bring extra cash with you “just in case” because that just in case will become an extra added souvenir that you just couldn’t leave without. Have some safety money set aside in case of an emergency, but keep in mind that it is just for emergencies!
If you are going to travel to a foreign country, check your vaccination record before you go. Some countries require specific immunizations. Even if they are not required, some immunizations may protect your health. Your physician and the CDC’s website can help with the information you need.
When traveling, don’t flaunt your wealth. Wear modest clothes and jewelry. Avoid having large bills, or large rolls of bills, in your hand at any time. Travelers are natural targets for thieves. Flaunting wealth will only increase your vulnerability. Modesty will help to keep you safe.
Bring Ziploc bags for your liquids and toiletries to minimize time in airport security lines. Bring a few extra in case companions have forgotten theirs or yours have torn. You may also find that they serve other uses on your trip and can be invaluable when readily available. They are also a good way to carry small items and make them easy to view and find.
Now you’re ready to hit the road, board the plane, hitch a ride or get on that train to whatever destination it is that tugs at your heartstrings. Using these smart travel tips and a hearty dose of common sense, your future trips will all have a great chance at being dream vacations.
