So, you finally booked a trip to your dream destination. Visiting a new location is always an exciting venture. But, if you’re not prepared before you go, problems could arise that bring you headaches instead of happiness. That’s why every traveler should know these ten essential travel tips. Skip the stress and enjoy your vacation!
1. Best Time To Travel
Every destination has something different to offer. Ultimately, the best time to visit will depend on your budget and what you want to do while traveling. But, there are a few key things that you should consider before choosing a travel time.
- Peak season vs off-season
- Weather conditions
- Events and attractions
- Your desired activities
- Your travel budget
Of course, tip #2 can also help you choose the best time to plan your trip. The more you know about the area you are visiting, the easier it will be to choose the best time.
2. Always Research Your Destination
One travel tip that cannot be stressed enough is to research the destination you’re traveling to beforehand. Now, you may be thinking we recommend this tip so you can plan an itinerary filled with the most exciting activities. But, that’s only a small fraction of why this tip is important.
Reading about your destination will give you more insight on what to expect when you arrive. For example, in some places workers rely on tips to make an income, while it’s considered rude to tip elsewhere. Try to educate yourself on the culture and customs where you go to avoid being ‘that person’.
3. Protect Yourself (Don’t Be An Easy Target)
One of the downsides of visiting a foreign area is that you could be the target of theft. Pickpocketers and other criminals are experienced and know how to spot an easy target. They can spot you from a mile away and you wouldn’t be the wiser.
So, how can you avoid being a victim of theft while traveling? A few simple planning tips could help you stay protected.
- Research if there are any common scams or criminal activity in the area you are visiting
- Find out which areas have the highest crime rates and try to avoid them. (For example: if a certain parking lot has a high theft rate, avoid leaving personal belongings in your car if you have to park there.)
- Always keep your wallet in your front pocket.
- Keep a minimal amount of cash on you while you’re out.
- Choose pants or jackets that have zippered pockets.
4. Where To Eat
One of the exciting aspects of visiting a place that’s new to you is that there is an abundance of food options. Trying the cuisine that represents the culture of the destination adds to the experience. That being said, if you’re not careful it’s possible that you could drop a fair amount of your budget on meals that aren’t up to standards.
In areas where tourism is high, there are typically a lot of restaurants. This gives travelers an abundance of options to fit whatever they’re craving. But, it often comes at a price. Restaurants that bring in a lot of tourists are known to increase the prices on their menus.
So, what should you do if you want to enjoy the food without spending too much? Our best advice here is to get tips from the locals. In most areas, locals avoid these over-priced restaurants meant to drive in tourists. Instead, they will be able to point you towards establishments where the food is outstanding and comes at a more reasonable price point.
5. Smart Packing
When life gets busy, sometimes packing gets left until the last minute. While it isn’t ideal, it doesn’t have to be stressful. There are a few essential tips for smart packing that every traveler should keep in mind.
- Use a checklist to ensure you have everything you need
- Don’t stress if you forget something, most items can be purchased while you're on vacation
- Choose travel-sized and mini versions of your favourite items to reduce space in your bag. (For example, instead of bringing a lot of bulky equipment to set up your phone for filming travel content, pack the pocket-sized Geometrical Tripod to keep in your wallet.)
- Pack clothes based on weather conditions while you travel
- Compression packing bags can help you pack more while taking up less room
- Become familiar with the airport’s luggage requirements before you pack
6. Choosing Accommodations
There are so many options available when it comes to accommodation. You can book a luxury stay in an all-inclusive resort, you can get a taste of the local experience staying in an Airbnb, or keep things budget-friendly by staying at a hostel. Here are some of our top tips for choosing the right place to stay.
- Know what type of accommodation you want to stay in before doing research
- Compare rates on different websites to find the best deals
- Check out customer reviews written by real people (Avoid testimonials posted directly on the accommodation’s website, as they are generally created by writers and not real travelers.)
- Consider the location of the accommodations and how close it is to the places you plan on visiting
- Aim to book accommodations a few months in advance for the best rates
7. Deals vs Value
When you’re looking for places to stay and things to do, you may come across advertisements that showcase a ‘great deal’. We highly recommend comparing the deals you find to other offers in the area. Just because a price has dropped doesn’t mean it’s the best fit. The goal is to get the best value for your money.
For example, you might find a packaged tour deal at 30% off. Before booking tickets, compare the offerings through other tour companies in the area. You may find a different company that takes you to more places for your dollar.
8. Getting Around
Now, it’s time to think about transportation. Once you arrive, how will you get from one place to the next? If you’re planning a road trip, you can skip this section. But if you're taking a plane to your destination, you might be wondering the best ways to get around once you arrive.
This goes back to tip #2. Always research the area so you know what options are available to you and what the prices are. Renting a car is the priciest option. But, it is usually the best option if you’re travelling to a rural area. You can visit places on your own terms, including places where the public transportation isn’t accessible.
If you’re staying in a city, walking is a great option. You get fresh air and exercise while also exploring the city’s sights up close and personal. On top of that, you don’t have to spend your money on getting around. But, we do suggest familiarizing yourself with the public transportation routes for when you want to visit places that aren’t within walking distance.
9. Airport Preparation
Being prepared for the airport can save you time, and will ensure you’re not annoying the people waiting behind you in line. Before you pack, make sure you review the rules of the airlines. It’s crucial that you know what size of bags you’re allowed and how heavy they can be.
- Check-in online beforehand so you can save time at the airport and get a good seat
- Don’t wear metal items (or at least take them off beforehand) when you go through security
- Make sure your carry-on bag is organized
- Know which items are allowed in your carry-on and which ones must go in your checked baggage
- Get to the airport early to avoid last-minute rushing
- Make sure you’re prepared before getting in line
- Download entertainment on your devices before leaving
10. Keep Your Documents Ready
There are certain documents you will need before boarding the plane. Make sure you have everything ready and in a place where you can easily access it. This will save time and stress when you arrive at the airport. Documents will include your ID, passport, tickets, and anything else you will need.
