Travelling is a form of escapism. It’s a chance to explore new places and meet new people, all while experiencing an entirely different culture. You can experience the best things life has to offer when you travel—but there are some essential tips that every traveller should know before they go. Here are the basics of travelling so that your next trip will be as smooth as possible.
Pack Light
Packing is one of the most important aspects of travel. If you pack too much, you’ll be lugging around a heavy suitcase, and if you fill too little, you might not have what you need when you reach your destination. Try to find a happy medium—bring only the essentials.
One way to make packing easier is to use packing cubes. These small fabric bags help organize your clothes and belongings in your suitcase. They come in different sizes, so choose the ones that will best fit your needs.
Another helpful hint is to roll your clothes instead of folding them. This takes up less space and prevents wrinkles from forming in your garments.
The following are essentials to pack:
- A small first aid kit
- Basic toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo)
- Clothes for your time abroad and some extra outfits in case you want to go out on the town while you’re there
- “Comfort” clothes like sweatshirts or pajamas that make it easy to rest when necessary
- These also come in handy if the climate of your destination is colder than expected
- Custom wetsuits for surfing
Pack a jacket just in case! It can get cold at night, even during the summer months, depending on where you travel. If you know it’s going to be chilly once nighttime rolls around, bring something warm with you so that way, no matter what season of the year it is, you’ll be prepared.
Don’t forget to bring an umbrella! You never know when it will rain, so have a travel-size umbrella on hand at all times. It’s also helpful to carry around a reusable water bottle as you’ll likely be doing plenty of walking and sightseeing during your visit.
Be sure not to forget these other essentials for any trip: passport/visa, tickets or boarding passes, driver’s license, insurance cards if traveling abroad, phone charger, and money.
Have the Necessary Documentation
Having the necessary documentation is critical when travelling. Make sure you have a valid passport and visas if required. You may also want to bring copies of your documents with you, just in case you lose them or they get stolen.
Different states have different requirements for driver’s licenses. If you’re travelling out of the country and plan to drive while there, check with your local DMV to see if your license is valid in other countries.
If you’re travelling with children, make sure you have their birth certificates and other necessary documents. Airlines may ask for proof of age before allowing a child to boarding a plane.
For any medical condition you have, make sure to bring the necessary documentation. This includes prescriptions for anything you take regularly and a doctor’s note if you need it on hand if there are questions about your trip. Some countries may also require proof that you’re vaccinated against certain diseases before they allow entry into their country. You should check what these requirements are ahead of time so that nothing slows down or prevents your travel plans from happening as planned.
Take an Extra Bank Card and Credit Card With You
Carrying an extra bank card is always a good idea if your primary card is lost or stolen. You should also take a copy of your credit card information with you if you need to make a purchase while travelling and don’t have your card on you.
The following are benefits of carrying an extra bank and credit card:
- If your primary bank card is lost or stolen, you will have a backup
- In case of an emergency, where you need to make a purchase and don’t have your wallet with you, having the information on hand can be helpful
- Credit cards usually offer better protection from fraud than debit cards do. So it’s good to know which one has been used if any changes in another country aren’t familiar to you after returning home. Have this information readily available just in case you need to dispute any charges
If your bank card has a foreign transaction fee, using a credit card without this fee can save you money while travelling.
Travel by Yourself at Least Once
Travelling by yourself is a great way to get to know a new place and its people. You’ll make new friends, see things you wouldn’t have seen if you were travelling with someone else, and have unique experiences that you’ll never forget. It can be scary at first, but it’s a great way to learn and grow as a person.
Do Not Be Afraid To Use Maps
Some people are hesitant to use maps when travelling because they don’t want to look like tourists. However, using maps is one of the best ways to avoid getting lost in a new city or country. Plus, it’s straightforward to do –pull out your phone or tablet and open up Google Maps. If you’re feeling lost, you can even ask a local for help.
Always Visit the Local Tourism Office
The local tourism office is an excellent resource for tourists. They’ll have information on things to do and see in the area, as well as maps and brochures. They can also help you book tours or find accommodations. If you’re having any problems while travelling, the tourism office is a great place to go for help.
When You Go Out, Take Only What You Need
One of the best ways to save space in your luggage – and avoid getting weighed down – is only to take what you need when you go out. This means leaving your heavy books at home, packing light clothes that can be easily washed, and taking a small bag instead of a large suitcase.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the best travel tips for your next trip. By following these tips, you’ll have a more enjoyable and hassle-free experience while travelling. Enjoy your trip.
