Prepare for Your Trip with Travel Tips
We offer our clients a wealth of information about travel tips and more. We firmly believe that an educated traveler is a happy traveler. Check our extensive travel resources and get the most out of your next trip. These articles are very helpful for our travelers, regardless of their destination.
Pack Light
It’s OK to wear the same t-shirt a few days in a row. Take half the clothes you think you will need…you won’t need as much as you think. Write down a list of essentials, cut it in half, and then only pack that.
Carry a basic first-aid kit
Accidents happen so be prepared. Take band-aids, antibacterial cream, and ointments for minor cuts and scrapes. You never know when you’re going to need it and you can’t always get it when you travel.
Don’t Forget an Extra Camera Battery (or Two)
Have you ever gotten to that epic sunset photo spot and realized your camera battery is dead and you don’t have a back up? Try to bring at least three camera batteries on your trips so you don’t miss out that perfect shot.
Always Bring a Sarong
Sarongs can be used as a wrap when you are cold, a towel, a curtain, or a piece of clothing that can be worn dozens of different ways.
Pack Extra Underwear
Undies are small and it’s always a good idea to have a few extra pairs in case of emergencies.
Put Electronics, Medications, Toothbrush, and an Extra Pair of Underwear in Your Carry-on
A few important items should always go in your carry-on. A swimsuit is also a good idea if you are going on a beach vacation. You can buy most of these things if your bag gets lost, but having them in your carry-on will save you money and time if your luggage gets lost in transit.
Carry emergency cash.
Because emergencies happen. It is always a good idea to carry an emergency cash.
Be Flexible
Always plan for delays and try not to get upset when things inevitably go wrong. Patience is extremely important when traveling!
Put Your Room Number & Hotel Address in Your Phone
Am I the only one who can’t remember my hotel room number?? There has to be others out there like me.
Stay in hostels
They are cheap, organize events, you’ll meet a lot of people, and they are just tons of fun!
Learn basic phrases in the native language of your destination
The locals will appreciate it and it will make your interactions easier. You don’t need to master the language but learning a few things like “Hello,” “Goodbye,” “Thank you!”, “Where’s the bathroom?” will go a long way to endearing yourself with the locals. They’ll like that you tried.
Try new food.
Don’t ask what it is. Just put it in your mouth and see if you like it. If you put your guard up, you might miss out on some unusual and delicious local cuisine
Eat street food!
If you skip the street food, you miss out on culture. Don’t be scared. If you’re nervous, look for places where kids are eating. If it’s safe for them, it’s safe for you.
Lunchtime is the best time to visit historical sites.
Be a contrarian. You’ll have fewer crowds getting in your way as big tour buses, groups, and most travelers head to lunch. It’s always best to visit an attraction super early, late, or when people eat. You’ll have even the most popular places to yourself!
Never eat in a touristy area or near a tourist attraction
Walk five blocks in either direction before to find a place to eat. The closer you are to tourist attractions the more you are going to pay and the worse the food (and service). Use websites like Yelp, Google Maps, Foursquare, or Open Rice to find some delicious and popular restaurants around you. Additionally, never eat anywhere the menu is in like 6 languages! That means the restaurant is just for tourists
Eat at expensive restaurants during lunch.
Most expensive restaurants offer lunch specials featuring the same food they would serve for dinner but half the price! That’s the best time to eat out when you travel.
Keep an Open Mind
Don’t judge other customs. You are a visitor. Be respectful.
Ask The Locals
Always ask the locals to point the best restaurants, awesome spots to watch the sunset, the best coffee shops, etc.
Take pictures of your luggage and clothes.
If your bag gets lost, this will help identify it more easily and speed up the process of having your travel insurance reimburse you.
Avoid taxis.
They are always a budget buster. Never, ever take a taxi unless you absolutely have too!
Take photos of the places you visit and with people
Lots of photos. Years from now, you’ll want to look back on those nights you can’t remember and the people who made them memorable.
Get city attraction cards.
If you are going to visit a lot of museums and other attractions in a short period of time, a city pass is going to save you money on admission (plus most provide free public transportation too!).
Get travel insurance
Travel insurance is the most important thing you get that you never want to use. If something goes wrong, you don’t want to be out thousands of dollars in bills. It will be there if you get robbed, flights get cancelled, you get sick or injured, or have to be sent home. It’s comprehensive and, for just a few dollars a day, one of the best investments you can get for a trip.
Don’t over plan your trip.
Let your days unfold naturally. Schedule two or three things and let the day fill in the rest on its own. It’s less stressful, and letting the day just take you is one of the best ways to travel.
Book Early for Cheap Flights
Flights are always the first thing to book when planning a trip — For the most part, the earlier you book, the better price you will get.
