The idea of travel is akin to creating a unique adventure. If you have made a list, then check it multiple times. Then, relax and watch what pleasant surprises happen that make your trip memorable. Be sure to include the tips that follow on your list.
Leave your additional valuables at your home. If you are bringing your valuables on a trip, there is more of a chance that they will get lost or stolen.
Make sure you have all essential information in written form when traveling far afield. Keep copies of your travel documents with you, and make sure that you always have all the contact info for the US embassy that is located in the areas you will be traveling. You will need their assistance should you encounter legal troubles. They can assist you with any issues.
Always plan ahead when traveling by air. It can take much more time then expected to get to airports in major cities because of traffic. Be packed and ready the night before. Before your travel day, make sure all of your preparations are taken care of. Missing your flight will cost you precious time and money.
When traveling abroad, be on the lookout for criminals who may be posing as law or government officials. Do not let anyone have your passport unless you are sure they are legitimate. If they want to take you in for questioning, insist on walking. Do not get into a vehicle with strangers at home or abroad.
Only pack things that are necessary. The less items you have, the less risk of having valuable items stolen or lost. Try not to carry on too many shoes as these can be a burden.
Make sure you are prepared to take care of yourself, even on longer flights. Be sure to bring a blanket, headphones or pillow if you think you’ll need them. Don’t forget to pack a few snacks to make sure you have some food that you enjoy during the flight.
Try signing up for travel price watcher. You can find this handy feature online at many travel-related websites that will alert you to different prices. You will receive a notification if a hotel or airline reduces the price to your desired amount. This helps you avoid the hassle of always having to check.
When you get to your hotel, give the alarm a try. You do not want to be subject to the alarm needs of the previous guest. Turn the alarm off, or set it when you want to get up, if you want your vacation to start in a relaxing way.
Prior to flying, make a quick trip to the gym. Longer flights can be hard on your body. Your back and legs can start to cramp up after sitting for such a long time period. Stretching or doing a quick workout prior to flying can eliminate or lower your risk of getting soreness or leg cramps.
Too often, we carry half of our home belongings along with us when we travel. Try to pack just the items you really need, however. Jot down the items you really can’t do without for more than a day or so. Pack the most important ones for you and keep it simple.
If you will be on a long trip, be sure to pack a raincoat, specifically one with soft lining. You don’t know what will happen with the weather. As an added bonus, your rain coat could be used as a light jacket when it’s chilly, or as a bathrobe.
Sleeping Pills
Take sleeping pills if you need helping sleeping through a flight. Many people find it difficult to sleep on an airplane, between the unfamiliar surroundings, uncomfortable seats, and passenger and aircraft noise. You may want to consider bringing sleeping pills with you on your flight, in order to rest comfortably. Importantly, wait on taking the pill until the flight has taken off; this keeps you mentally aware in case there are delays or changes in the schedule.
Always prepare for an emergency when going to a foreign country. This includes coming up with a plan for losing your passport. You can get steps on contacting the embassy in the country in which you are traveling by visiting usembassy.state.gov. Department of State has a site that has info on how to get in touch with the US Embassy in case you need it. Write all of this information down and keep it handy during your trip. Most of the time, you’re going to have the replacement passport in just a day, maybe two.
If you use services with a “green” certification, your vacation will be friendlier to the planet. There are many hotels which have implemented a linen reuse program, use energy efficient lighting, place recycling bins for guest use, use low flow plumbing and use alternative energy sources. When you know where to look, you can find many ways to stay green when you are on the road.
While this advice will help you reduce stress, there are no vacations that happen without any hiccups at all. The best tip is to simply relax and have a great time.