Even for someone who travels often, going to a new place can be nerve-wracking and exciting all at once. Before you get your flights booked and bags packed, take a minute to read through the following tips to help you minimize travel stress and maximize your vacation enjoyment.
Don’t use the public computers in your hotel or anywhere else they offer free internet while you are on vacation. There is something called a keylogger that scammers use to gain access to your bank information as you type the keys on the computer.
Be wary of people who tell you that they are police offers or government officials when you are traveling in a strange city. Never give them your original passport as you may never see it again. If they want you to come with them to a police station, make sure that you walk there. Never ride in a vehicle with a stranger, no matter how nice they are.
Create a packing list for your trip! 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. This can especially help you if you are in a rush to pack, as it will prevent you forgetting things or including unnecessary items.
Be sure to have a good, clear, color photo of your child on hand to be prepared in the unhappy event your child becomes lost. It can be terrifying to lose your child. However, it’s important to be prepared because it can happen. Easy access to a photograph of the child can facilitate any necessary search efforts in they get lost.
When traveling in strange cities, be alert for criminals posing as police officers or other government officials. Do not let anyone have your passport unless you are sure they are legitimate. If they want to take you in, make sure you walk with them. Never get into a car with a strange local.
Research as much as you can before you book anything. Read reviews online before booking. Get advice from friends who may have traveled there previously. When you do this research, you will be better prepared and know what to do and take while visiting.
When visiting foreign countries, be careful of which taxis you choose. Be sure it is legit before getting into it. Anyone could put a taxi magnet on their car, but they could be someone else.
When traveling with a small child, you need to have activities and things planned out to keep them occupied. Take a few favorite games and toys. You can also buy a couple of new toys for the travel because this will offer him enough distraction to keep him busy.
Taking a trip no matter how far from home may cause you to want to bring pieces of your home along for the vacation. Only take the things you truly need. Travel size toiletries and other gear are great, because space is at a premium when traveling Pack only those that are the most important.
If you absolutely cannot leave “Fluffy” at home, find a vacation that will let you bring her! Pet-friendly vacations are growing more and more popular, and some places offer deals for pet lovers. There are even pet day cares and spas. Some cruises also allow pets. Find out where you can take your pets and feel free to do so.
The shoes you wear when you go flying should be comfortable, lightweight, and easy to take off and put on. Remember that shoes need to come off at the security checkpoint. Comfort is of utmost importance. On planes and in airports, you will walk a little but sit a lot, so heavy-duty support is not necessary. Canvas mules or other comfortable sandals are ideal wear during travel.
Always check expiration dates on of all of your passports. Many countries have specific rules concerning your passport. Certain countries will deny entry if the expiration date on your passport falls within a certain range. These times can be three or six months, or even eight months to a year.
If you are worried about leaving items behind, consider using a dry-erase marker to leave notes on the mirror. You can easily lose a note on a slip of paper, but it’s hard to ignore writing on a mirror. You can do this because dry-erase markers will easily wipe off of mirrors with just a little bit of tissue paper.
Make sure there is someone close to who you can get hold of your itinerary. This will allow someone else to see where you are. Also, make sure to keep in constant contact with that person to ensure safety. They will not be as concerned if you check in on predetermined basis.
Traveling a great distance from home is not always necessary for a fun getaway. Enjoy a staycation by visiting attractions in your local area. You could always save money by staying in local areas and helping out local businesses. You might find a gem nearby.
If a travel site has an E-tracking option, utilize it. You will get updates on the most cost-efficient options to travel. You will receive email alerts if the flight that you have booked or shown interest in has dropped the price and is available at a cheaper rate.
Foreign Currency
You may want to pack up everything you have while traveling. Try not to take along so many things. Jot down those things you use during the day that you wouldn’t be able to live without. Pack the most important ones.
Try not to exchange currency when you visit a different country. You can get foreign currency using an easier method. The best way is to use an ATM at a bank to get your foreign currency. These machines generally have a better exchange rate, and many times are much cheaper than going to an exchange.
With these tips in mind, your next trip could be the journey of a lifetime. Whether you’re a travel novice or an experienced road warrior, these tips will help you have a more memorable and pleasurable trip.