When we look back at our different vacation holidays, we often think about both the good and the bad. Maybe that airline was a great choice and the long haul flight was one of the best you’ve had, but scrimping on the hotel room meant you didn’t get enough sleep since it was right next to train tracks. Or maybe you did a great job of saving, but managed to blow through 70% of your money in the first three days.
If you plan to travel soon, here are 5 tips for improving your next trip:
Choose to Travel Carry-on
If you’re aiming to upgrade your trip and take some of the stress out of travel, the best way to do this is to take less stuff. If you’re traveling for a week or less you can easily live out of a carry-on suitcase, and there are tons of YouTube videos and articles online about packing light which can help you learn the trick to fitting all of your stuff in a smaller bag. One of the best tips is simply to take less stuff in the first place.
I like to take a small pack of clothes washing detergent (powder and not liquid so I can take it on the plane) and a flexible washing line which I can use to wash my delicates in hotel sinks. Most hotel baths will also have washing lines above them so you can dry your clothes if you find yourself running out.
Purchase Travel Insurance
At some point in your trip, you’re likely to find that something goes wrong. Maybe you’ll twist your ankle on those pretty cobblestone streets, lose your passport on the night train, or be pick-pocketed. Purchasing travel insurance will give you peace of mind and you’ll know that both your health and belongings are covered.
Choose Airport Parking
I used to think that long term airport parking was expensive, but it’s actually reasonably priced. And the convenience of dropping off the car and walking straight into the airport means you have one less thing to worry about.
For me, though, the real reason I love airport parking is when I’m returning from a holiday. There’s nothing better than walking out of the airport, getting straight into your car, and going home to your own bed.
Stay Healthy
Getting sick while traveling is the worst, however, it happens more often than you think. Jetlag, poor food choices, eating unfiltered ice – it happens to the best of us. In the weeks before you travel, ensure you’re getting enough exercise and sleep, and make a conscious effort to eat well and take your multivitamins.
Load up your smartphone
Smartphones make travel easier and more pleasant. Make sure you have plenty of music for long flights and layovers and consider adding some movies – I love ‘Ted Talks’ because they’re interesting but short enough that I can watch one or two whenever I have ten minutes spare.
Download some good apps like Google Maps, Skype, and XE currency so life will be easier once you’re overseas.
