You may forget important traveling factors when you’re hurrying to drive to the next destination or to catch a flight. Travel requires a solid plan before you reserve tickets and rooms. The paragraphs below are full of the considerations you need to be mindful of before traveling.

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Leave your additional valuables at your home. You are taking the risks of having everything stolen from you if you do bring valuables with you.

If you are traveling in Athens with your child, carry a photo of your child just in case he or she gets lost. It can be terrifying to lose your child. Though it certainly feels devastating, it is a reality for many. The photograph you have on hand could make a difference in time spent finding them if they are separated from you in a crowd.

Uber vs. Taxi

When visiting Athens, use caution when taking a taxi. Be sure that you choose legitimate operators. Anyone can throw a “taxi” sign up and you won’t know who they are or where they will take you. You are much better off taking an Uber. Uber drivers are required to have vehicle markings but be sure to check the license plate and driver’s picture before getting into the vehicle. There are a lot of Ubers in Athens, and many of the vehicles look similar.

Even if you are taking a long flight, bring your own comfort supplies and don’t rely on airline personnel to provide them. A flight is often more comfortable when you bring along comfort items; such as a blanket, a pillow or your own set of headphones. It is also wise to bring some snacks, so you will have food that you enjoy eating if you are hungry.

Before booking your next trip, do your research. This will put you in the most comfortable position when flying or driving. Talk to people who have visited there before. Doing all the research you can will help you learn what to expect and what things to do after you arrive.

If it’s too hard to leave your furry friend at home, bring her along. Pet-friendly hotels are becoming more and more popular. Some of these accommodations include cat spas, day care for your pooch and sometimes even cruises where you can take your pets. The point is that you should not toss out your vacation plans because you do not know what to do with your pet. Simply verify that services are available and pets are welcome before finalizing any arrangements.

First thing to do when you get into your hotel room is to check the alarm clock. Lots of travelers have had the unpleasant experience of being awoken by an alarm set by someone else. Turn the alarm off, or set it when you want to get up, if you want your vacation to start in a relaxing way.

If you’re going to be staying at a hotel, pack a door stopper. Sometimes, especially in areas of higher crime such as developing countries, you may want a little extra security for your hotel room. If your door lacks a deadbolt or chain beyond the main door lock, place one of these small, wedge-shaped doorstops under the door before bed.

Take clothespins when you travel. They can be very useful.

Don’t forget to check the actual flight carriers’ website for deals before booking your flight. Sometimes they have the best price.

Remember when traveling by plane, to wear shoes that are comfortable and easy to slip off. You are going to have to take them off at the security checks. Your level of comfort is crucial. You will be sitting a lot, so a great deal of support is unnecessary. The best shoes for flying might well be sandals or flip-flops.

A motorcycle is a wonderful way to travel. They are fuel efficient, fast and fun! It can be quite fun to travel by motorcycle.

Most people can’t afford a nice hotel. Often, you may find yourself stuck at thoroughly unpleasant places to rest your head for the night. Bring a rubber doorstop to stay safe. You can slide it under your door for your hotel room all night long (as well as using the chain and lock). It is almost impossible to enter a room that has a doorstop placed beneath the door.

Always check expiration dates on of all of your passports. Many countries have rules in place about passport expiration. If it expires within a certain time frame, they will not allow you to come into their country. Normally, this range is between three and six months, but it can even be eight months to a year.

Prebook your parking at the airport if you plan to leave your car there. If you wait to book a parking spot on the day you need it, it will generally be way more expensive. If your house isn’t far from your airport, think about taking an Uber instead.

Research currency rates before you travel so you can easily budget your expenditures. Knowing how much your dollar is worth when traveling can help you see what to spend and make an itinerary that can help you save, too. You will have more fun this way.

The major airlines all have e-newsletters, and subscribing has its benefits. You will be notified of discounts, special deals and last-minute offers. Yes, they will fill your inbox more, but the rewards and savings can be worth it.

If you have booked a hotel room, don’t forget to pack some travel candles. It can help your room smell better. Using the same scent you would use at home, may help you go to sleep more quickly in an unfamiliar place. These types of candles exist in portable sizes, dripless formulas and even electronic styles that won’t make any smoke or mess.

Weather can be a huge factor in your travel plans. Keep an eye on the forecast for your destination so you are aware of any inclement weather patterns. This way, you can prepare for unpleasant surprises and plan alternate activities if the beach is too frigid or the ski slope is sweltering.

Think about how you can improve upon your next trip. These tips are a great start. Prepare for your vacation by taking notes. If implemented, these tips will improve the quality of your trip.