Traveling might seem like it is difficult, but with the right set of knowledge it is possible to have an amazing trip. If you aren’t sure what to do, it is easy to find your self lost or overspending on something that should be quite affordable. The advice below will help prevent those outcomes.
Aisle Seat
Take the time to make a packing list. Put together a list of things you must take with you. You can start doing this a couple of months out, but should be finished about a week before your trip. Even if you won’t have time to pack until the last minute, having a list will keep you organized.
Select an aisle seat on the plane. While a window seat offers a view, an aisle seat allows you easy access to restrooms, overhead baggage and flight attendants; in addition, you do not have a person crowding you on one side.
We all love our pets and if you simply refuse to board them at a kennel, why not choose a way to travel with them? Vacations for pet owners are becoming more and more popular, and some accommodations offer deals for pets and their families. You may find cat spas, doggy day-care facilities and cruises that welcome pets. Always check to be sure that pets are welcome before making an reservations.
If you’re going to be staying at a hotel, pack a door stopper. Occasionally, particularly when you travel in countries that are less developed, it’s important to stay in a hotel room that has more security. If you do not have a door that is equipped with a chain or deadbolt, use a wedge doorstop before retiring at night.
Build in some flexibility about where you go when planning a vacation. Though you may have established favorites, it is always fun to mix things up with some new spots. Also, an alternate destination may save some much-needed money.
Clothespins can be a useful item while traveling. While you might not think of them immediately, clothespins can perform many functions.
When traveling with young children, pack things to keep your child occupied. Try to bring some of your child’s favorite toys. You might want to purchase a new item for this trip to bring some novelty to the adventure and ensure more time is occupied by the toddler.
Workout at the gym the day before you take your flight. Multi-hour flights can take a lot out of you. Sitting in one position for a long period of time can cramp up your legs and back. Getting a good workout or stretch in before your flight can leave you feeling relaxed and reduce the chances of your body stiffening during your flight.
When visiting foreign countries, be careful of which taxis you choose. Make sure the taxi actually is legitimate before getting in. Anyone can throw a “taxi” sign up and you won’t know who they are or where they will take you.
Tip the bell boy and housekeeper when staying in a nice place. A good rule of thumb is $1 per bag/luggage and about $2-5 a day for housekeeping. If you tip well, you are more likely to get good service and be on good terms with hotel staff during your stay.
Keep your travel items together. Avoid searching throughout your house for trip items such as toiletries, chargers and travel pillows. Buy a cheap plastic storage bin, and keep all your stuff in there. You can use an under-bed box to make sure they are out of the way and hidden, but easily found when needed for your next trip.
Melt a bucket of ice if you want to have fresh water for morning coffee. Tap water rarely tastes good, so place ice in the bucket for overnight melting. You can use it to make coffee.
When you fly, don’t expect the airline to cater to your every need, no matter how long the flight is. Consider packing your own pillow or blanket, as well as headphones. The airline versions are not very comfortable. It is also wise to bring some snacks, so you will have food that you enjoy eating if you are hungry.
Jet Lag
A very common problem people have when traveling through different times zones is jet lag. If you get a lot of sleep leading up to the trip, you’ll experience less jet lag. Also, try and sleep as much as you can during your flight.
To get the most enjoyment while vacationing, make sure to take projected weather conditions into consideration. Check the forecast for your destination. Unexpected weather can turn a vacation into a nightmare.
Hotel staff like room service staff and the bell hop are paid meager salaries and tips are very much appreciated. Tipping the bellhop around $1 per bag and the housekeeping staff around $2 to $5 per day is certainly not excessive. If you treat the staff well, then they will treat you well.
Always pack a small pillow and also a blanket when you travel. It doesn’t matter whether you’re going by train, plane or car, a pillow and blanket will help your trip to be comfortable. Sometimes the airline will provide them; however, they may run out. If you have your own, you know it’s clean.
Traveling can be enjoyable. It is involved in terms of research, asking questions, and packing, but it is worth it in the end to have a great trip. These tips will keep you well informed while traveling.