We’ve learned a lot during our travels— losing money, buying visas we didn’t need, not having enough cash, etc. Travel is much less stressful when you are prepared. Here are some travel tips to remember for your next trip:
1. Do a quick search on the best time to travel.
You definitely don’t want to visit during a cold or rainy season!
2. Book your flight a few months in advance.
Make sure you get the best price possible. The longer you wait, the more expensive your flight will be.
3. Avoid common travel scams.
Overpriced Taxi’s. Cup Games. “Free” Flowers or Bracelets.
4. Only bring what you need.
I can almost guarantee you’re going to regret bringing all of that unnecessary stuff with you. We suggest you bring a day-pack (like this one here!) that is waterproof and can carry small items.
5. Do your research on the country.
We always buy Lonely Planet books to make sure we don’t miss anything. The books also give you a map to use when you’re exploring.
6. Make copies of your passports and other documents.
Just in case! Also— make a copy of all your hotel stays (addresses + room numbers) and car rental reservations.
7. Ask the locals.
If you’re looking for a good place to eat or shop, they’ll know where all the great spots are.
8. Travel with an empty water bottle.
We suggest a stainless steel water bottle that you can bring to the airport (empty) and fill up once you’re through security.
9. With that being said, stay hydrated!
We understand you’re on vacation, and you are probably going to have a cocktail or two— BUT traveling/flying can be very dehydrating.
10. Notify your bank and credit cards before you travel.
Unfortunately, we’ve experienced our cards getting declined while traveling. This is not how you want to start your vacation! You might want to carry some emergency cash, as well.
11. Don’t over plan.
If you plan too much, your vacation is going to start to feel like a full time job and you’re going to become exhausted quickly. Write down a list of places you want to visit during your stay and go with the flow when you arrive.
12. Be patient and relax.
Everything will get done and everything will work out. Enjoy yourself and slow down a bit!
13. Be respectful.
Just remember that you are in a new place and this new place is someone else’s home. Treat it as if it were your home— and treat others as you would want to be treated.
14. Pay in local currency.
You can also download a currency conversion app.
Book Travel:
Hotels.com – We use Hotels.com for all hotel stays. After 10 stays, you get one night free!
Lonely Planet – We never go anywhere without a Lonely Planet book! They share travel tips, recommendations and reviews on each country. You can plan your entire trip with this book.