If you travel alone you can have a great time, but you can also be more susceptible to crime. Still, there are certain safety tips that will help you on your travels. This article will give you some good ideas for making yourself appear less vulnerable while you travel.

When you travel to other countries, try using an ATM for withdrawals for pocket cash instead of exchanging your cash for the country’s currency. Many times a bank will get a better exchange rate than what an individual has access to. You can save a lot of money later by doing this.

Make sure you leave extra valuables at home. Too many items often burden travelers with additional responsibility, which increases the possibility of these items getting lost or stolen.

The type of digital camera you take on your trip should be dependent on the trip you are taking. If you are planning on backpacking, for example, a rechargeable battery may not be the answer. You’ll want a model that you can turn on and focus quickly to allow you to catch every shot.

The price per unit for these conveniently sized products is disproportionate compared to the amount of space that you save. Fold your clothes with a more efficient technique when you are packing them. This can give you the extra space you need for other things.

Take a rain coat when you travel. You just can’t tell how the weather will be too far out. You can also use it as a robe or windbreaker.

Rush Hour

Plan your trip around rush hour. If you can’t plan your trip where you won’t be driving during rush hour, use that time to stop for a break. This is a good time to eat or relax.

TIP! When to travel by plane or car with a toddler, make sure you have enough fun things to keep them occupied. Pack some of his favorite games and toys.

Before traveling, verify that your passport is not going to expire soon. There are rules about your passport in many countries. You are usually not allowed to enter a country if your passport expires soon. Normally, this range is between three and six months, but it can even be eight months to a year.

Make sure you pre-book parking at the airport ahead of time if you plan on leaving your car in the airport while you travel. This will save you a lot of money. If you don’t live far from the airport, consider whether taking a taxi would be cheaper than paying for parking.

Take a break every few hours when driving with small children. Taking a break allows you to stretch your legs and use a bathroom. In addition, giving your child a chance to get out of the vehicle occasionally can reduce any motion sickness they may be experiencing. Your trip may become a little longer, but the reduced stress will be worth any delay.

TIP! Exercise before you get on the airplane. Long flights can be tedious.

When traveling abroad, bring an extra passport photo. If your passport is missing due to loss or theft, it can take a while to replace. Be sure to have a spare picture of yourself on hand to make this process go more quickly. You can get on your way faster when you have the documents needed for passport application forms with you.

To make sure your flight won’t be delayed, take a flight early in the day. Usually when flights are delayed it’s because they are waiting for it to arrive at the airport, but if you take the first flight out, chances are the plane is already there. The first flight during the morning is very limited with delays.

When you are going to another country, take bottled water with you. Drinking water in a foreign country can lead to stomach problems. Use bottled water when you brush your teeth. Avoid putting the local water in your mouth at all.

TIP! Watch your important belongings when traveling. Keep your purse tucked under your arm.

Some travel sites offer an e-tracking option. If you have the choice, use it. This feature keeps you updated with the lowest-priced traveling options. You’ll get an email alert of price reductions for flights and hotels you’re interested in.

Getting Foreign Currency

Do not go to a currency exchange if you can help it. Getting foreign currency can be done in a better way. Try getting foreign currency at an ATM using your debit card. Bank ATM’s tend to have better exchange rates and are generally less expensive than an exchange.

TIP! Just keep in mind you will probably pay more and it doesn’t really save that much space. Try simple folding and packing tricks to expand your luggage space instead.

Ask to be placed in a room on an upper level, if at all possible. Ground floor rooms are easier for thieves to access. If possible, request a room without sliding doors for security purposes. Sliding glass doors are, unfortunately, quite easy for thieves to get open.

When traveling by air, always seat your child away from the aisle, if possible. Place yourself or a different adult between the aisle and your child. You don’t want your little one sticking their arms and legs out, because it could be dangerous for the crew. Your child could also get hurt if they get hit by a cart. Also, if you block the way to the aisle, they will be unable to get loose.

Try not to bring luggage on the plane. You will save lots of unnecessary travel and time. Ship your luggage, via FedEx or UPS, to your final destination. It might cost a little more, but it might be worth it.

TIP! Traveling by motorcycle can often be the best way to experience road trips. It’s easy on gas, maneuverable and fun to ride.

When traveling with a pet, do your homework before leaving home regarding hotel’s pet policies and any extra costs that may apply. Compare and contrast all your options and find the best, and most affordable, option for your furry friend.

When traveling with dogs, give them a quick brushing before getting in the car. This will help reduce the amount of hair that flies around. Take items for the dogs such as food, water, bowls and cleanup bags.

When traveling by yourself is often peaceful and enjoyable, it may make you a target for criminals. There are tricks to appearing less vulnerable when alone. Follow the suggestions you’ve read to make sure you stay safe on your trip.