Travel is one of those things that everyone can get into, but in which not everyone really excels. Making travel arrangements can be a fast, painless thought-free process. However, getting the best deals and making the best plans, takes a little more effort. Here are a few tips for maximizing the benefits that good travel planning can bring.
When traveling by airplane, try to limit yourself to a single 20 pound carry-on bag. This way, you always know where you luggage is. If you are traveling to multiple destinations in a single trip, there’s nothing worse than having your luggage chasing you around while you go without clean underwear.
If your cellphone will not cover long distance from the place you intend to travel to, it might be a smart idea to invest in a phone card before leaving. A phone card will make calls much less expensive and ensure that you don’t accidentally make any expensive long distance calls.
Have some flexibility with your travel plans when choosing a destination. Travel to places outside your norm. You can save money by selecting an alternate destination.
When traveling, don’t forget that you can travel by bus to many areas in North and South America. It can be much less expensive than flying and is generally lower-stress for the travelers. Traveling by bus has lost much of its stigma in recent years, with many companies purchasing new vehicles and even hiring security guards to ride along.
When selecting luggage, pay attention to the ease of carrying it over long distances. A rugged metal rolling suitcase is usually ideal. Some rolling bags even have straps that allow them to be worn as a backpack through areas where you can’t roll them. You and your luggage will be walking longer distances than you think.
Are you concerned about the safety of the hotel you are staying at? Take along a doorstop. You can use them to keep a door closed as well.
When traveling overseas, hang on to your reciepts for credit card purchases. When you file them, date them and note the purpose of the purchase. When you get home, you have an easy way to reconcile your statement with the money you spent. This will make it much easier to spot any fraudulent charges.
Going on a long trip can ensure that something will happen. Make sure to pack a small first aid kit with you to help with minor scrapes and bruises. Other items, such as bottled water and some snacks can also make a huge difference when you don’t have to buy these things at a higher price in a tourist attraction area.
Look for “nonstop” rather than just “direct” flights. Nonstop flights, as their name implies, make no stops before arriving at the destination, whereas direct flights may stop at other airports on the way to the final destination. Although you are not changing planes, the stops you make on a direct flight can lead to many unexpected delays.
When going on a road trip, always bring a camera with you. You never know when you may come across something that you’ll want to take a picture of to remember. It doesn’t have to be something expensive and fancy, any basic camera will do. You definitely won’t regret capturing your memories on film.
Always continue to search for travel deals on hotels and car rentals, even after you have secured your reservation. These companies often drop prices significantly to make sure their inventory is used, so keep looking. Make sure that you understand the cancellation policy before you try to switch out your room or car.
Always leave a copy of your travel itinerary with someone back at hom,e so that they can keep track of you. Be sure to include phone numbers and addresses so that they will be able to contact you if needed. You never know what sort of emergency might come up while you are away.
Take a look at the currency rates in advance. Knowing how much the dollar is worth in advance will help you develop a budget and itinerary. Doing this will allow you to maximize fun while minimizing spending.
Alcohol consumption should be kept to a minimum while you are traveling. It is fine to have a few drinks yet if you get drunk while waiting for a plane, train or bus you may be targeted by people looking to take advantage of the situation. Always be aware of your surroundings and staying sober will help you do this.
In order to truly enjoy traveling during a vacation it is very important to bring only what you need. It is hard to travel when there is unnecessary baggage. Another thing that this brings is that you will spend more time enjoying your vacation rather than pulling along that bulky bag.
To get the most out of your vacation, make use of the many online review sites where you can read reviews of restaurants, tourist attractions, hotels and more left by many other travelers. Be sure to focus on more recent reviews, as things may have changed since the older reviews were written.
Always write down or print out your confirmation numbers. Make sure you are not left scrambling to find tickets or lodging at the last minute by keeping careful track of reservation confirmation numbers. If you are not given one, be sure to ask and double check that it is not necessary. Doing so ensures you have proof that you indeed have a reservation instead of having to rely on your word.
Everyone on board a plane, train or ship, has something in common, they have all paid for the privilege of being there. Some passengers seem happier than others, though. These are the wise travelers, who have made an effort to arrange their travel plans for maximum convenience and economy. A little education can help you to join their ranks and travel with a smile.
