A lot of prep and research goes into taking any kind of trip. You want to get the best value out of your trip and have fun while doing it. These tips will help make your trip an enjoyable one.
Make notes of all the details of your trip. Record the address, website, and telephone number of the embassy or consulate in your country of destination. If you have issues when traveling abroad, this will be the first location you must contact. If you have any issues, they can help you out.
Once you have decided where to go, learn what you can about your destination. Get yourself a good map of the area, and look over what is available in the area for sightseeing and other destinations to visit. If you have a basic idea of where you are going and what you are doing, you will find that your trip goes more smoothly.
Always keep a picture of your child on you. It is extremely frightening to become separated from your child. Though it certainly feels devastating, it is a reality for many. If you have a good quality photograph to show the people at your location, or the police, it can make getting your child back that much easier, and faster too.
If you sit in an aisle seat, you’ll have more options. A view is one of the only benefits of a window seat. Aisle seats offer unrestricted access to baggage, restrooms and airline staff. You will also have one side of you that can move around without hitting the person next to you.
When traveling to a country that requires certain vaccinations, be sure and carry the paperwork indicating you’ve had them with you. This is important information needed to enter and leave many countries, but keep in mind that it can also be required to travel to different cities within the country. This can end your vacation and lead to you to a quarantined area.
When you plan a vacation trip, be flexible about your destination. Even though it might be more fun to visit a certain vacation area you love, different travel experiences will create new memories and might even be more relaxing. You can save some money by picking an alternate destination.
Pack lightly and take only what you need, when traveling. When you carry less items with you, there is less of a chance of having items stolen or losing them. Limit how many shoes you take as they can take up a lot of room and are the heaviest things you will be taking.
Pack some clothespins for your next vacation. While not on your typical travel list, a handful of clothespins can prove very useful.
It is customary to tip any hotel staff that makes your stay easier. People generally recommend a buck per bag for the bellhop and $2-5 per day for the maid. Tipping will show your appreciation for their work, and will help you maintain a good relationship with hotel staff.
If you’re going on a long trip with kids, take along a cookie sheet or two. The sheets can be used as a flat surface under coloring books or to play cards. They also work great in tandem with bright magnetic numbers and letters.
The National Park Pass is a good investment if you will be making frequent visits to the National Parks. While the initial outlay is $50, they are valid for a one year term and give you open access to all national parks.
Consider different modes of transportation. Bus travel isn’t what it once was. It is relatively inexpensive, and many buses offer free Wi-Fi and other nice amenities. Some lines offer package deals.
Some travel sites offer a useful E-tracking option. This will provide you with the most current and cheapest methods of travel. You will get an email if the plane tickets you booked or are thinking about purchasing, go on sale.
Make sure you bring a small pillow and blanket when traveling. It doesn’t matter whether you’re going by train, plane or car, a pillow and blanket will help your trip to be comfortable. Sometimes, you may get a free one from the airline. Bringing your own along gives you peace of mind.
Tip generously to anyone who gives great service. When boarding a cruise, tip the steward $20. There is a good chance the crew you see in the beginning will be the ones taking care of you the entire time, so if you tip them well, you are sure to get good service in return.
If you’re taking a remote vacation, think about buying insurance that covers emergency evacuations and search and rescues. The more remote your location, the more this insurance may be necessary.
Cheaper flights are often connecting flights. However, you need to consider what the layover times are. If you don’t give yourself enough time, you could miss the next plane. If you have a long layover, bring along a book to help pass the time.
If you’re traveling to another country, take some local currency. Sometimes exchanging currency can be a difficult task, so it’s best to get it done before you truly need it. The larger banks where you live are usually able to sell foreign currency. Make a trip to the bank prior to leaving for the airport.
It’s important to keep in mind that there are many guests in every hotel. When you stay at a hotel make sure you are a courteous neighbor and not do anything you wouldn’t want anyone else doing, like slamming the door. Even during the day people may be sleeping, either from jet lag or just a late night the night before. There is no need to tiptoe, but keeping the volume at a reasonable level will always be appreciated.
These ideas can easily be applied to your business adventures, your special family getaway, or a romantic jaunt with your spouse. Remember these tips as you plan your travel so you can enjoy the trip rather than spend time dealing with problems.