Of course, there are many decisions you’re going to have to make when you’re planning a trip or even if you’re an experienced traveler. Luckily, with the proper information and know-how, successful trip planning is much easier. The following article is filled with helpful hints and tips on traveling for both the novice and the veteran.

One of the most important things you can do to prepare for travel is to itemize what you need to pack. You should start this list at least one week in advance, preferably earlier than that. The list should include all of your necessities for the trip. This way, even if you pack the day before you leave, it will be easier and you won’t forget any essential items.

TIP! Be sure to pre-plan your trip if an airport is involved in your travels. Most airports are close to major urban areas, making them difficult to get to at busy times of day, like rush hour.

Have a door stopper to use during your hotel stay. Sometimes, especially in areas of higher crime such as developing countries, you may want a little extra security for your hotel room. Use a doorstop when you retire for the night, especially if your door doesn’t have a chain or a deadbolt.

Don’t forget to pack clothespins on your next trip! They are often forgotten, but they actually can prove to be very useful.

Bring along things to keep your toddler busy. Bring along anything your child loves to play with. It is also a good idea to buy a new toy or two to be used on the trip as unfamiliar toys may engage your child for longer time periods.

TIP! If you are planning a hotel stay, especially in an area that is less safe, pack a doorstop in with your belongings. These handy little gadgets made of wood or rubber are usually intended to hold a door open, however they can also hold them closed.

When traveling by air, wear lightweight, comfortable shoes that can be easily slipped on and off. They will have to be taken off when you reach the security checkpoint. Comfort is paramount. You do not need particularly supportive shoes as you will be spending most of your time sitting. Ideally, you want to be wearing sandals or even flip-flops.

As the beginning of this article mentioned, there are so many decisions any prospective traveler must make, a process which some might describe as intimidating. However, with the right information and some good advice, you can plan a great trip with less stress. If you follow the guidelines from this article, you will be prepared to make simple and stress-free travel plans.