tip for travel

My Best 61 Travel Tips to Make You the World’s Savviest Traveler

Most people aren’t born savvy travelers. It’s something that only comes with on-the-road experience. Travel savviness is a process born of missed buses, foolish behavior, cultural unawareness, and countless tiny errors. Then, one day, you begin to seamlessly move through airports and integrate yourself into new cultures like a fish to water.

In the beginning, you just make a lot of travel mistakes.

But I want to help speed up the process and help you avoid my mistakes ( and I often make a lot of them ), so I put together this giant list of my best travel tips that cover everything under the sun to help you reach your full travel ninja potential.

I’ve learned these tips over the last sixteen years being a nomad.

These tips for traveling will have you saving money, sleeping better, getting off the beaten path more, meeting locals, and just being a better traveler.

So, without further ado, here are the best 61 travel tips in the world:

1. Always pack a towel. It’s the key to successful galactic hitchhiking – and plain common sense. You never know when you will need it, whether it’s at the beach, on a picnic, or just to dry off after a shower. While many hostels offer towels, you never know if they will or not, and carrying a small towel won’t add that much weight to your bag.

Make sure it’s a lightweight, quick-drying towel since regular towels are too bulky and heavy (and they take a long time to dry). Dry Fox travel towels are my favorite (use the code “nomadicmatt” for 15% off your purchase)!

My favorite bag is the Flash Pack from REI . Other companies offering high-quality bags are Osprey, Nomatic, and MEC (for Canadians).

This article has more tips on finding the best travel backpack for your needs.

The same rule applies to suitcases. Don’t take a huge suitcase because they are a pain in the butt to lug around, especially if you’re traveling long term (short term, not so much). I like Level 8 suitcases. They are durable, quite spacious, nicely designed, and well-priced (luggage can be pretty damn expensive). Plus, they have a TSA lock built into the zipper. You can click here to learn more and buy one .

I also recommend packing cubes , which are essential if you’re going to be living out of a backpack for a few weeks (or months), or you just want to keep your suitcase better organized. They come in a variety of sizes, allowing you to store items big and small. They’re great for making it easy to find everything in your backpack or suitcase.

3. Pack light. Write down a list of essentials, cut it in half, and then only pack that! Plus, since you bought a small backpack like I said above, you won’t have much room for extra stuff anyways! Take half the clothes you think you will need…you won’t need as much as you think. It’s OK to wear the same t-shirt a few days in a row.

I love Unbound Merino , as their travel clothing can be worn daily for weeks without getting smelly. They are super light and they look sylish too. I really love the material, they’re comfortable, they hardly ever need a wash, and they last forever!

Click here for more packing tips .

4. But take extra socks. You’ll lose a bunch to laundry gremlins, wear and tear, and hiking so packing extra will come in handy. Take a few more than you need. Trust me on this. Nothing beats a fresh pair of socks!

Here’s a list of all my best hostels around the world . If you’re planning on backpacking Europe , it’s worth getting HostelPass , a card that gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money, and they’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and so I’m glad it finally exists. Use code NOMADICMATT for 25% off.

6. Take an extra bank card and credit card with you Disasters happen and things get stolen or compromised. I once had a card duplicated and a freeze put on it. I couldn’t use it for the rest of my trip. I was very happy I had a backup. You don’t want to be stuck somewhere new without access to your funds. This happened to a friend once and they had to borrow money for me for weeks while they waited for their new card to arrive.

Here are some helpful articles on banking:

• How to Avoid Banking Fees While Traveling
• 22 Ways to Cut Your Expenses and Have Money for Travel
• How to Pick the Best Travel Credit Card

7. Make sure to use no-fee bank cards. Don’t give banks your hard-earned money. Keep that for yourself and spend it on your travels. Get a credit card and debit card that doesn’t charge a foreign transaction fee or an ATM fee. Over the course of a long trip, the few dollars they take every time will really add up!

Here’s an article that will tell you how to do that.

8. Don’t fly direct. When booking flights, sometimes it is cheaper to fly in to airports close to your final destination, and then take a train, bus, or budget airline to where you need to go.

To use this method, find out how much it is to go directly to your destination. Then, look at prices to nearby airports. If the difference is more than $150 USD, I look to see how much it is to get from the second airport to my primary destination.

My favorite flight search engine is Skyscanner . This is my go-to website for finding cheap flights. It searches a lot of different airlines, including many of the budget carriers that larger sites miss.

Here are some more tips on finding cheap flights!

Here are some helpful articles on solo travel:

• Why I Travel Alone
• The Joy of Solo Travel
• Travel: The Ultimate Personal Development Tool
• How to Overcome Being Alone
• Reading People: One Skill Travel Has Taught Me

10. Always visit the local tourism information center. This is probably one of the most underused travel tips in the world. Tourism information centers know about everything going on in town. They can point you to free activities, special events happening during your stay, and everything in between. They even offer discounts on attractions and transportation. It is their job to help you experience the destination better. It’s amazing how many travelers skip this when they are visiting somewhere but, as a savvy traveler, you know to use this resource!

11. Take free walking tours. Besides being free, these tours will give you a good orientation and background of the city you are visiting. I love, love, love taking walking tours when I travel. You pass the time, you get to pepper the guide with questions, and you get to learn so much about where you are. Here are some of my favorite walking tour companies around the world:

• The Best Walking Tours in New York City
• The Best Walking Tours in London
• The Best Walking Tours in Paris
• The Best Walking Tours in Berlin
• The Best Walking Tours in Amsterdam

And while free walking tours are great, sometimes it’s worth it to take a paid walking tour if you’d like to dig deeper into a particular aspect of the destination. Walks is one of my favorite paid walking tour companies, offering in-depth history and cultural tours in cities around the world (especially Europe). Its small-group tours also tend to offer exclusive behind-the-scenes access you can’t get elsewhere.

For fellow foodies, Devour Food Tours has all kinds of amazing food tours around Europe.

12. Don’t be afraid to use a map. Looking like a tourist isn’t as bad as getting really lost and ending up in the wrong neighborhood. Don’t be afraid to use a map or ask for directions and look like a tourist. After all, you are one!

13. But don’t be afraid to get purposefully lost. Wandering aimlessly through a new city is a good way to get to know it, get off the beaten path, and away from the tourists. You might be surprised by the hidden gems you find. I like to wander around and try to find my way without using Google Maps. Travel is the art of discovery and you never know what cool little spot you’ll come across.

14. Ask hostel staff for information — even when you aren’t staying there. Hostel staff deal with budget travelers all day, every day. They know exactly where to go for cheap meals and attractions. They also tend to be locals so they know the city very well. Ask them for all sorts of information. Even if you aren’t staying in one, just pop in and ask for help. They’ll usually give it.

15. Sign up for flight deals. When it comes to travel, your flight(s) will likely be your biggest expense. Save money by signing up for flight deal websites. You’ll get epic flight deals straight to your inbox, saving you time and money. Also be sure to sign up for airline newsletters, since that is where they will announce their sales first. The best websites for finding travel deals are:

• Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) – The BEST for upcoming US flight deals.
• The Flight Deal – Great for global flight deals.
• Holiday Pirates – The best for European flight deals.
• Secret Flying – A great site for flight deals from around the world.

16. Don’t buy a money belt — they’re stupid. Thieves know they exist and being seen with one basically shouts, “Look at me, I’m a tourist with money! Rip me off!” The more you can blend in and act like a local, the easier it will be to get deals and avoid touts. If you’re worried about pickpockets, keep a better eye on your stuff!

17. When you go out, take only what you need. Limit the amount of cash and bank cards you carry with you when you go out, so if something does happen, you can easily recover. Never take more than one credit card or ATM card with you. My rule for cash is to limit what I carry to $50 USD.

18. Always carry a lock. Carry a small combination lock with you when you travel. They come in handy, especially when you stay in dorms. Most hostels use lockers, so budget travelers need to provide their own travel lock to keep stuff secured. While you can usually rent or buy them at hostels, it’s much cheaper just to buy one before you go. (Just don’t use one with keys because if you lose the keys, you’re screwed!)

19. Make extra copies of your passport and important documents. Don’t forget to e-mail a copy to yourself too. You never know when you might need to have some sort of documentation with you and might not want to carry your original. Additionally, if your passport gets stolen having a copy will come in handy for your police report.

20. Learn basic phrases in the native language of your destination. The locals will appreciate it and it will make your interactions easier. You don’t need to master the language but learning a few things like “Hello,” “Goodbye,” “Thank you!”, “Where’s the bathroom?” will go a long way to endearing yourself with the locals. They’ll like that you tried.

Here are some tips on how to learn a language .

Here are some posts that highlight my favorite reads:

• 13 Travel Books That Will Give You Serious Wanderlust
• The Best Travel Books
• 12 Books to Take You Around the World

22. Don’t be ashamed to walk into a Starbucks or McDonald’s. Sometimes familiarity is comforting and both places have free wifi and public restrooms you can use. (Just don’t eat the food at McDonald’s! That shit is gross and unhealthy for you! You can get it back home!). Libraries and most modern coffee shops also have free Wi-Fi too.

23. Always get behind business travelers when in security lines. They move fast since they are usually in a rush and travel light. They know the drill. Line up behind them as much as possible. You’ll speed through the line!

24. Never get behind families in airport security. They take forever. It’s not their fault. They just have a lot of stuff because of the kids. Try to avoid getting in lines with lots of kids. It’s going to take a while.

25. When you check in to the hotel, don’t be afraid to ask for an upgrade. They have a lot of flexibility when it comes to assigning upgrades at check-in. It never hurts to ask. Often times they can accommodate you if the hotel isn’t full. Just be super nice!

Note: If you stay in hotels frequently (or want to), it might be worth it to get a hotel credit card . You can earn points on your everyday spending at home and convert those points into free stays. The best cards come with status, making upgrades more likely too!

26. Write down your experiences. Even in this hyper-technological age, I think everyone needs to write more during their travels so they have something to look back on. I never leave home without a journal. Not only do I use them for work (I’m constantly taking notes and writing down ideas) but I also use them to keep track of my travels.

Simple travel journals work great for journaling during your trip as well as for writing down logistical information like directions, contact information, and language tips.

If you want a travel journal that isn’t just blank pages but rather has space for itinerary planning, places to jot notes in the local language, inspirational quotes, and more, grab our new travel journal. It was designed specifically with travelers in mind, so you can take notes as well as write down stories and reflections during your travels.

27. Lunchtime is the best time to visit historical sites. Be a contrarian. You’ll have fewer crowds getting in your way as big tour buses, groups, and most travelers head to lunch. It’s always best to visit an attraction super early, late, or when people eat. You’ll have even the most popular places to yourself!

28. Never eat in a touristy area or near a tourist attraction. As a general rule, I walk five blocks in either direction before I find a place to eat. The closer you are to tourist attractions the more you are going to pay and the worse the food (and service). Use websites like Yelp , Google Maps , or Open Rice to find some delicious and popular restaurants around you.

Additionally, never eat anywhere the menu is in like 6 languages! That means the restaurant is just for tourists!

29. Locals don’t eat out every night and neither should you. Go grocery shopping. You can learn a lot about locals’ diets by seeing the type of food they buy. Plus, it will save you a lot of money. You won’t regret it. Cook your food, save money, and surprise yourself!

30. Eat at expensive restaurants during lunch. Most expensive restaurants offer lunch specials featuring the same food they would serve for dinner but for a fraction of the cost! That’s the best time to eat out when you travel.

I share more tips on how to eat cheaply around the world here.

31. Pack a headlamp. This is a handy tool for both backpackers and anyone looking to do any hiking or camping. If you’re going to be staying in a hostel, having a headlamp is helpful when you need to check in or out but don’t want to disturb your fellow travelers by turning on the lights. They’re also helpful in emergencies.

32. Carry a basic first-aid kit. Accidents happen, so be prepared. I always take band-aids, antibacterial cream, and ointments for minor cuts and scrapes. You never know when you’re going to need it and you can’t always get it when you travel.

You can either assemble a first aid kit yourself ( here are some tips for doing so ), or purchase a pre-made kit online .

33. Don’t believe the cheap flight myths. Don’t drive yourself too crazy trying to get the absolute cheapest fare. There are a lot of myths online about how to find cheap flights, but there is no magic bullet or one secret ninja trick. It’s not cheaper to book on a particular day of the week, or if you search in an incognito window.

Spending five hours to try to save $10 will cause you a lot of stress. Once you find a flight deal that you’re happy with, book right away, as airfares change by the minute. Remember, you usually have a 24-hour window to cancel in case you need to.

Here are some article on how to save money on flights:

• 5 Steps to Booking a Cheap Flight Online
• How to Always Find a Cheap Flight
• Where I Find the Best Travel Deals

34. Use Meetup, the sharing economy, and hospitality websites to meet locals. These websites will help you get an insider’s perspective on your destination by connecting you with locals in the places you visit. The sharing economy has changed the way people travel allowing you to meet locals, get off the tourist travel, and save mega money! It’s a triple win – and I use these resources all the time when I travel.

Here’s an article on how to use the sharing economy (and what websites to use) when you travel.

35. Be open to strangers. Not everyone bites. Say hi to people on the road. Turn strangers into friends. Remember they are just like you! They want to live a happy, full life and have hopes and dreams too! You never know. You just might make some lifelong friends.

36. But keep your guard up. Some people do bite, so keep a healthy level of suspicion. You don’t want to fall for any travel scams or get yourself into uncomfortable situations. Be open but cautious. Here is a list of travel scams to avoid.

• My Favorite Restaurants in Europe
• The Best Places to Eat in NYC
• How to Eat Cheap Around the World
• 30+ Places to Eat in Tokyo
• How to Eat Around the World on a Vegan Diet

38. Avoid taxis. They are always a budget buster. Never, ever take a taxi unless you absolutely have too!

39. Take a reusable water bottle through airport security and fill it up at your gate. Single-use plastics are common in a lot of countries around the world. They’re also polluting our oceans and destroying the environment. Drink from the tap when you can — you’ll save money and help the environment. If you’re going somewhere where you can’t drink the water, be sure to get a water bottle with a filter. I love Lifestraw .

40. Get city attraction cards. If you are going to visit a lot of museums and other attractions in a short period of time, a city pass is going to save you money on admission (plus most provide free public transportation too!).

41. Take pictures of your luggage and clothes. If your bag gets lost, this will help identify it more easily and speed up the process of having your travel insurance reimburse you.

42. Carry emergency cash. Because emergencies happen, like that time in Romania when I couldn’t find an ATM and needed money for the bus to the hostel. I usually try to keep around $200 USD in emergency cash in case something happens!

43. Get good shoes. You walk a lot when you travel. Don’t beat up your feet. Love them as much as they love you, and they’ll take you to amazing places.

My favorite shoes for traveling are Suavs shoes , which are versatile and durable. They’re comfortable and great for exploring a new city all day, but also look nice enough that you can dress them up if you want to at night.

44. Get vaccinated. Because falling prey to an illness in a foreign country is not fun — and many countries require you to get vaccinated in order to visit them. So regardless of your opinion on the subject, you just might have to.

Here is an article on how to stay healthy on the road.

45. Learn to haggle. Haggling is a fun, playful way of not getting charged the foreigner price. It’s the art of negotiating and one that will help you throughout all of life, not just at the market.

Here are some articles to help you get started with using points and miles:

• Points and Miles 101: A Beginner’s Guide
• How I Earn 1 Million Frequent Flier Miles Every Year
• The Best Travel Credit Cards
• The Ultimate Guide to Picking the Best Travel Credit Card

47. Take a jacket. Nights get chilly.

48. Eat street food! If you skip the street food, you miss out on culture. Don’t be scared. If you’re nervous, look for places where kids are eating. If it’s safe for them, it’s safe for you.

49. Get travel insurance. Travel insurance is the most important thing to get that you never want to use. If something goes wrong, you don’t want to be out thousands of dollars in bills. Travel insurance will be there if you get robbed, flights get canceled, you get sick or injured, or have to be sent home. It’s comprehensive and, for just a few dollars a day, one of the best investments you can get for a trip.

You may think you’re superman/woman but so did my friend who broke her arm, didn’t have insurance, and had to pay thousands out of pocket. Insurance was there when I had to replace my camera and when I popped an eardrum scuba diving! Get it! Here are some tips on how to find the best travel insurance.

My favorite companies are:

• SafetyWing – A budget-friendly choice for travelers who need basic coverage. They are affordable, have great customer service, and make it easy to make a claim. If you’re on a tight budget, go with SafetyWing!
• Insure My Trip – The best insurance for those over 70 years old.
• Medjet – This is a membership program that provides emergency evacuation coverage should you get into a dire situation while traveling and be hospitalized. Medjet is meant to supplement your regular travel insurance.

50. Be patient. Things will work out in the end. No need to rush. You’ll get to where you are going in due time. Travel is about the journey, not the destination.

51. Be respectful. Locals are willing to help you out, but there’s probably a language barrier, so keep your cool when something doesn’t go your way. If you don’t, you’ll end up just looking like an asshole tourist.

52. Don’t over plan your trip. Let your days unfold naturally. Schedule two or three things and let the day fill in the rest on its own. It’s less stressful, and letting the day just take you is one of the best ways to travel. Here’s my advice on how not to over plan your travels!

53. Relax. See Be patient .

54. Be frugal — but not cheap. Don’t be pennywise but pound-foolish. Look for deals and don’t waste money, but don’t miss out on great experiences or walk 10 miles to save a couple of dollars. Time is money. Spend them both wisely.

55. Take earplugs. Anyone who has ever stayed in a hostel knows that earplugs are a necessity. Snorers are everywhere and you need your sleep.

But even if you’re not going to be in a hostel, they’re still helpful for sleeping well if your accommodation is located on a busy street, or for sleeping in buses, overnight trains, and other types of transportation. A good night’s sleep is priceless — be prepared!

These earplugs are reusable and work much better than the cheap foam ones, blocking out any distracting noises.

56. Always carry a power bank. Batteries die. Your good mood shouldn’t.

We all travel with numerous electronic devices like phones and tablets, but it can be hard to keep them all charged. An external battery solves that problem.

57. Remember that you’re not alone even if you’re traveling solo. Traveling alone never means you’re really alone. Wherever you go, there is a network of travelers who will be your friends, give you advice or tips, and help you out. They will guide you, point you in the right direction, and be your mentors. You aren’t out there on your own. You’ll make lots of friends and tons of memories.

If you’re not sure about traveling on your own for the first time, you can always join a group tour, such as those we offer at The Nomadic Network . I’ve designed all the itineraries myself to ensure they cover the highlights, get you off the tourist trail, and connect you with friends and locals.

59. Pre-book your tickets to attractions, activities, and excursions online. If you’re planning to do any activities or excursions on your trip, book them online. Companies usually offer a discounted price when compared to buying in person. Not only that but you’ll be able to pay with a credit card, giving you some extra protection as well as more travel points!

Many major attractions also allow you to reserve your spot and skip the line. Always look online to see if this is an option. This will you to avoid wasting time in multi-hour lines and go right in. I’ve seen people wait hours for the Paris Catacombs, Louvre, London Churchill War Rooms, churches, temples, historic fortresses, and more. Pre-book the day before, skip the line, get to see more during your day!

Get Your Guide is my favorite place to book activities in advance. It’s a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions, with tons of options in cities all around the world, including skip-the-line attraction tickets, cooking classes, walking tours, and more!

60. Avoid TripAdvisor. TripAdvisor is fine when you need opening hours or an address, but when it comes to reviews I ignore it completely. People always leave a negative review when something bad happens but rarely leave a positive review when something good happens so the reviews tend to be skewed.

On top of that, it’s very easy to create fake reviews and make a place seem better than it is. Many hotels and restaurants hire firms to artificially inflate their reviews on the platform. Additionally, TripAdvisor has been known to take down reviews that are overly negative as well as reviews on sexual assault. Use TripAdvisor with caution. Or better yet, don’t use it at all.

61. Finally, wear sunscreen. For as the Baz Luhrmann song “Everybody’s Free (To Wear Sunscreen)” goes:

If I could offer you only one tip for the future, sunscreen would be it. The long-term benefits of sunscreen have been proved by scientists Whereas the rest of my advice has no basis more reliable Than my own meandering experience.

*** There you have it! My top travel tips! Follow them and you’ll be the best traveler you can be in no time flat!

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• InsureMyTrip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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The Vacationer • Travel Guides • Travel Tips

49 Best Travel Tips to Save Time, Money, & Stress in 2024

Traveling locally, across the country, or to another continent is an exciting way to form memories and experience other cultures. But an awry trip can usher in unnecessary stress, expenses, and potential regrets.

These travel tips can help you have a successful trip from the initial planning stages, as you pack your bags, and once you reach your destination. 

Table of Contents

Best Travel Tips While Preparing for a Trip

This collection of tips covers just about everything you should consider when traveling and before you go. You are most likely practicing some of them, making them a good reminder, and others can help prevent uncommon travel surprises.

1. Book At Least Six Weeks in Advance

Instead of carving time out of your schedule to book your trip at a specific date or time (such as Tuesdays at 3 a.m. using a private browsing session to find discounted fares), a more effective strategy is researching travel options at least four to six weeks in advance.

You can still find cheap flights and ideal flight times at least six weeks before departure. Getting on the hunt two or three months before major holidays is also good.  

Last-minute travel savings are possible but you may be unable to get a desired departure time, layover window, or destination. Waiting until the final days can be worth it if you have a flexible schedule and are open-minded about where you travel to.

Learn More: Best Days and Times to Book Flights

2. Travel in the Off-Season or Shoulder Season

Avoiding the peak travel season is one of the easiest ways to pay less for flights and lodging. You also will enjoy smaller crowds and the weather can still be decent for your intended activities.

For example, visiting Spain is delightful in March and April but travel prices are elevated during Semana Santa (Holy Week) when most cities have processions that virtually shut down the city.

Another example is visiting a beach town during the shoulder season. The shoulder season is the time between the peak and the offseason. So you could take a trip to Cape May, NJ from the middle of May to the end of June instead of during the July/August peak. The weather is still good enough during the shoulder season to enjoy most peak-season activities.

3. Compare Multiple Booking Sites

Comparing prices from several travel booking sites can help you find the best rate within minutes. Airlines, hotels, and rental cars offer several slots to third-party booking sites and you can pay less than booking directly from the carrier.

It’s worth your time to check prices directly from the carrier website but also from one or more third-party booking sites (online travel agencies or OTAs) like Hotels.com , Kayak , or Google Flights .

The Vacationer Tip

Along with looking for the best flight schedule and prices, you can use our guide to help find the best seats on the plane and book them for cheap or for free.

4. Book Directly from the Travel Provider

While you can find discounted prices through online travel agencies and third-party booking sites, booking directly from the airline, hotel, or rental car agency provides more protection if you must cancel or reschedule. This is especially important for flights and the 24-hour cancellation rule .

With third-party reservations, you may be locked into a particular itinerary that could be non-refundable or non-changeable. You will need to call the booking site to determine what your alternatives are. If you’re eligible for a refund, it can take longer to receive your funds.

5. Stay at a Hostel to Save Money

Hostels are a common and safe way to secure affordable lodging in Europe and Asia. If you’re traveling solo or in a group and okay with not having as much privacy, a hostel helps keep your travel costs down. 

Despite many misconceptions, most establishments are well-run with clean bathrooms and bedding. You may also be able to get a basic breakfast at some. With that said, be sure to research your options and consider paying a little more to get more luxurious accommodations.

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Staying in a Hostel

6. Consider Vacation Rentals for Extended Stays

Vacation rental websites like Airbnb and VRBO have become immensely more popular since the pandemic as people yearned for privacy. While hotels are usually better for shorter stays as you avoid expensive cleaning fees and service fees, a vacation home or villa can be more cost-effective for extended stays.

At a minimum, a rental or an extended-stay hotel is more likely to offer a full kitchen suite that allows you to cook full meals instead of relying on packaged snacks or what fits inside the hotel mini-fridge. 

Vacation rentals can also be cheaper per square foot if traveling as a family. Instead of squeezing into a hotel suite or booking multiple rooms, you have spacious accommodations. If you have small children, the extra space can keep you from losing your mind on rainy days.

The Vacationer’s Tip: While many people focus on spending less for flights, hotels and vacation rentals can have variable pricing. Here is how to find and book cheap hotels to enjoy clean and spacious lodging on a budget.

7. Buy Travel Insurance for Expensive or International Trips

Travel insurance is inexpensive on most itineraries and can save you thousands of dollars if your non-refundable travel is canceled or delayed for qualifying reasons. 

Obtaining coverage is a good option for expensive trips. Picking up a policy can also be worth it when traveling outside the United States as you can have medical coverage and emergency evacuation benefits that your ordinary health insurance may not provide outside the country.

You should also consider booking your trips using credit cards with travel insurance coverage . These benefits are sufficient for low-cost excursions and can activate before your standalone travel insurance policy can. They can also provide complimentary rental car coverage .

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers the best credit card travel insurance benefits. Namely, you can be eligible for trip interruption and cancellation coverage of up to $10,000 per person ($20,000 per trip), primary auto rental collision damage waiver, up to $500 per ticket in trip delay reimbursement, and up to $100,000 in emergency evacuation  Learn How to Apply Here

8. Consider Annual Travel Insurance Plans

If you travel regularly, an annual travel insurance policy covers multiple trips at a lower premium than buying a new policy for each trip. This is an excellent option for frequent leisure travelers and business travelers.

9. Review Airline and Hotel Cancellation Policies

Your travel plans may change unexpectedly for personal or work reasons. Before you book, take the time to review the cancellation and modification policies just to make sure they are reasonable.

You want to make sure you have a strong possibility of getting a refund or a travel credit to redeem later. Being locked into a non-refundable itinerary may not be worth the savings unless you’re booking right before you go or your travel insurance may issue a refund.

In addition to researching the cancellation policy, be sure to review an airline’s seating and carry-on policy to avoid add-on fees and restrictions. 

10. Choose Early Flights

Early morning flights are the best time to fly for several reasons. First, these departures are less likely to be delayed as it’s a new travel day with rested crews and minimal weather-related interruptions. 

Additionally, these flights can be cheaper as you need to arrive at the airport a little earlier. Routes popular with business travel can be an exception to this rule, but you can anticipate paying less than for a mid-day sortie.

Learn More: How to Avoid Flight Delays and Cancellations

11. Arrive at the Airport Early

Photo: Pixabay

Getting to the airport at least an hour before departure for domestic flights at small airports or when you’re not checking luggage. Plan on arriving at least two hours for domestic flights at busy airports, if you’re checking a bag, or traveling with small children.

What about international flights? Plan on arriving at least three hours before departure to allow additional time for a potentially longer check-in time.

Learn More: How Early Should I Get to the Airport?

12. Qualify for Expedited Airport Security 

If you fly several times a year, obtaining expedited airport security credentials can help you avoid long airport security lines. 

The first step is applying for a federally-administered Trusted Traveler Program, such as:

• TSA PreCheck : Enjoy expedited security at domestic airports only.  
• Global Entry : Get expedited processing at customs lines on international flights plus TSA PreCheck benefits. 
• NEXUS : Ideal for travel between the U.S. and Canada. It also includes Global Entry and TSA PreCheck benefits. 

Several rewards credit cards are offering free Global Entry and TSA PreCheck application fee credits to save a few dollars.

In addition to Trusted Traveler programs, you can also shave a few minutes off security wait times with CLEAR at select major airports and stadiums. Where available, this pre-security program can help you reach the expedited TSA security lines sooner. 

Getting a Redress Number can help those who frequently have boarding pass issues, are subject to additional security screenings (including having SSSS on their boarding pass ), and those who experience delayed or denied boardings.

Learn More: How to Get Through TSA Airport Security Faster

13. Relax at an Airport Lounge

If you have a long layover or arrive at the airport several hours later, visiting an airport lounge (like a Centurion Lounge ) can help you grab a complimentary meal and drink, and recharge your devices. You can also have a comfortable place to sit and the luxury lounges offer spa treatment, sleeping rooms, and shower suites to clean up.

Single-day passes are pricey but there are several credit cards with lounge access . Most lounges allow entry for the primary cardholder and up to two guests complimentary up to three hours before your next flight’s departure.

Airport lounge access is just one way to reduce air travel stress . Check out our article for additional suggestions. 

14. Check Your Passport Expiration Date

Some countries and airlines won’t let you travel if your passport expires within six months. If you’re planning a trip, see if your passport is expiring soon to prevent delaying your trip.

Consider renewing your passport early if you’re approaching the six-month expiration window as the passport processing times can take up to 13 weeks to receive your new document. You can pay extra for expedited processing but the process can still take several weeks.

After submitting your renewal request, you can check your passport application status online .

Finally, use our How to Take Your Own Passport Photo guide to simplify things when applying or renewing.

15. Don’t Go Into Debt for Vacation

As much as you’re earning to get away on a dream trip, it’s probably not worth going into debt for. Whether your bank is offering a vacation loan or you intend on carrying a credit card balance (even with a 0% APR), borrowing money to travel can backfire.

Instead, look for the best options within your spending power. Consider setting aside money each month and delaying your trip if necessary.

In addition to saving up for travel in a dedicated savings account, you can use travel rewards credit cards to redeem points to defray purchases. Some cards offer annual statement credits that reimburse eligible travel bookings. 

Additionally, airline credit cards and hotel credit cards also offer complimentary benefits to spend less.  

Making a travel budget can help you plan for travel expenses so you’re not nervous about running out of cash while you travel or having regrets once you return home.

16. Exercise and Stretch

Once you depart for your trip, be sure to stretch and perform basic exercises as time and space permit. It can be as basic as stationary stretches while sitting in your seat to walking the airport terminal. If driving, stay outside for a few extra minutes at the gas station or rest area.

Stretching and being active once you arrive is also beneficial and can help you sleep better.

Best Travel Tips for Packing

17. only bring a carry-on.

When possible, only bring a carry-on to avoid lost or missing checked luggage. You can also avoid checked baggage fees and excessive weight charges if you overpack. Using the best carry-on can help you find the perfect soft or hard-sided luggage to fit your travel gear.

If you need to check a bag, it most likely won’t get lost but could get delayed. Here’s our helpful guide on what to do during baggage delays .

18. Pack as Light as Possible

Packing is stressful; Many people overpack to ease their anxiety, which sometimes means bringing extra suitcases or paying to check a bag. Write down everything you think you need on your packing list. After it’s complete, cut it down to the bare minimum.

Pack underwear and socks for the number of showers you expect to take; Add an emergency pair for every five or so days of your trip. Shirts and pants can usually be worn multiple days in a row. If your accommodation has a washing machine, you can pack even less.

19. Carry-On Overnight Travel Essentials

You never know when a flight delay will turn into spending the night in the terminal or at a nearby hotel. While the airline may provide meal vouchers, you should pack these travel essentials to freshen up:

• A change of clothes, especially extra underwear and socks
• Powerbank (they cost about $20 and have several phone/tablet recharges)
• Travel charger

Even if you’re not stuck somewhere overnight, these small and compact items can also help you rest while on the road:

• Earplugs (great for plane rides and noisy hotels)
• Noise-canceling earbuds or headphones
• Travel blanket
• Travel pillow (see the best travel neck pillows )

Adding these carry-on essentials to your packing list can prepare you for nearly any change of plans and to weather a long layover or flight. 

20. Don’t Forget a Power Adapter

A power adapter is essential in most foreign destinations to charge your devices. Traveling to Canada or Mexico is an exception as the standard voltage is 120v and these countries have the same outlet design as the United States. Check to see the adapter requirements for the country you are visiting before leaving.

The Vacationer’s Phil Dengler recently visited South Africa and needed a Type M adapter. He purchased this Ceptics International Power Plug Adapter Travel Set , which includes 13 adapters for just about every foreign country.

21. Use Packing Cubes

There are a couple of ways to organize your travel luggage to squeeze everything in. Your bag may include built-in storage compartments or you might roll up clothing and put them in packing cubes or vacuum storage bags. If you’re on a budget, rubber bands or plastic bags can also do the job. I recommend the following packing cubes: Veken 6 Set of Various Colored Packing Cubes .

Packing for a vacation can feel like a fine art at times, even as a seasoned traveler. Our travel packing list can cover everything you need to bring so you don’t forget and have to buy something along the way.

22. Bring an Empty Water Bottle

For over 20 years, it’s become ingrained for air travelers to pack liquids in containers containing no more than three ounces. This security rule means you can’t bring a filled water bottle through airport security, but you can bring an empty one.

Most airports have filtered water dispensers in the post-security terminal that you can fill up your bottle with and avoid paying big bucks for bottled water. You also won’t struggle to stay hydrated during your journey.

If you’re driving, consider bringing a travel water filter or a portable filter that you can use in your hotel room to pay pennies for filtered water.

23. Dress Comfortably for the Flight

You should dress comfortably for the plane ride. Dressing in layers with a light jacket or a travel blanket can help you stay warm if the cabin is cool. Bringing travel slippers or slip-on shoes on long-haul flights is another overlooked comfort hack. Wear sweatpants instead of jeans.

24. Bring Duplicate Travel Documents

Take a few minutes to photocopy your critical travel documents such as your government-issued IDs and passport. Be sure to keep these papers separate from your originals in case one set gets lost.

Once you arrive at your destination, you may decide to go out in public with your duplicates and keep your originals plus at least one payment card in the room safe. That way, a pickpocket doesn’t run off with the more valuable set and you still have a way to make purchases. 

Taking it a step further, write down your credit card numbers and the emergency contact number if you need to call and cancel if your plastic goes missing. If you don’t have a phone number, you can also look for a pay phone that should have a toll-free number to contact Visa or Mastercard to cancel your card.

25. Keep Valuables at Home and Bring a Lock

Unless it’s necessary to bring them along for a business function or a personal event, leave your valuables at home. The hassle of keeping them secure and the risk of losing them may not be worth the replacement cost. 

This includes your fine jewelry, watches, and high-end electronics that are nice to use but optional for this trip. Additionally, these items can make you a target for thieves.

The Vacationer’s Phil Dengler also recommends bringing a luggage lock or a standard combination lock.

26. Install a Luggage Tracking Device

Bluetooth tracking devices like the Apple AirTag are a small and easy way to see where your carry-on and checked luggage are at all times. A single piece is about the size of a coin and costs $30 or less.

27. Bring Comfy Walking Shoes

Most of the world walks more steps than we do daily. Therefore, it’s essential to pack at least one pair of comfortable shoes or sandals to stroll the streets of your destination. Comfortable footwear is also a must-have if you’re staying stateside.

28. Keep a Travel Journal

Consider packing a notebook or diary into your carry-on. Handwriting your favorite travel memories in a journal is an easy way to remember the intricacies that you may struggle to remember years later when you reflect. 

For example, you can write down what you did each day along with exciting facts. Having everybody share their favorite activity for the day is another way to use this journal.

Best Travel Tips for Once You Arrive

29. learn the local customs.

Words and expressions can have different meanings where you’re traveling to. It’s also a good idea to know some of the common phrases and customs the locals practice so you can have a basic conversation.

You can research these details online or in a guidebook.

30. Dress As a Local

Blending in with the crowd can help prevent unwanted attention from panhandlers and pickpockets. For example, don’t wear revealing clothing when the culture favors pants or long dresses. Researching fashion advice for your destination is your best option.

31. Be Wary of Local Scams

Brushing up on the latest tourist scams can help you avoid bad situations. A recent travel guidebook is a reliable way to find the most common tactics for your destination. Two to look out for are unofficial taxis and fake wifi hotspots. 

32. Consider Wearing a Money Belt

Long-time travelers have a love-hate relationship with money belts as they point you out as a tourist if you’re constantly reaching for it in public. Additionally, wearing the belt all day can be a nuisance as it’s an extra layer of fabric you’re not used to.

At the same time, it’s harder to steal a money belt than to grab something from your pockets or purse. They are also inexpensive to buy on Amazon and don’t take up a lot of suitcase space if you decide not to use it.

33. Download Travel Apps

Smartphones make international travel substantially easier as you can download various apps before leaving home so you can hit the ground running.

Some types of apps you may consider downloading for these purposes:

• Offline Maps: Many consider Maps.me to be the best offline maps app and more user-friendly than Apple Maps or Google Maps. You may still try getting paper maps from a local tourism office or bookstore once you arrive though.
• Translation: A translator app for traveling can be pre-loaded with basic phrases with offline access. It may also be able to interpret voice recordings and photographs.
• Jet Lag: Flying to the other side of the world takes a toll on your body and sleep cycle. Timeshifter can help you conquer jet lag quicker while traveling and upon returning home.   

Downloading apps for your airline, hotel, and travel booking sites will help you access your digital reservation information and receive itinerary updates. Some travelers also enjoy downloading tourism apps like Tripadvisor or Yelp to quickly access ratings for attractions.

34. Get an International Sim Card or Phone Plan

Your stateside phone carrier may offer an international plan that you can upgrade to while you’re out of the country. Contract carriers and prepaid providers offer this overseas coverage.

Alternatively, an international sim card can be a budget-friendly and reliable option if you visit multiple countries. Just make sure your device is unlocked and GSM-compatible.  

35. Avoid Eating in Touristy Areas  

You’re likely to pay more and potentially get lower-quality food when eating in touristy areas. This isn’t always the case. For example, dining within sight of Rome’s Pantheon is an exception as there are well-rated restaurants for a memorable ambiance.

However, going a few streets over or to an adjacent community can be the ticket to finding authentic food. Asking your hotel or trustworthy locals can help you find a good spot in addition to researching places to eat online.

36. Lunch Can Be Cheaper than Supper

If you’re only planning on eating out one meal per day, your mid-day meal can be more affordable than in the evening. 

Depending on the restaurant, there can be separate menus for the bar and dining room. Staying in the bar can be more affordable and your meal options can be similar.

37. Use American Chains for Public Restrooms and Wifi

Finding a public bathroom can be challenging in foreign destinations. American restaurants like McDonald’s, Starbucks, and Taco Bell are more likely to offer public access to restrooms and wifi, although you may need to make a small purchase.

38. Look for Free Walking Tours

Free walking tours are common in popular tourist destinations both stateside and internationally. These tours can last a couple of hours and hit the cultural and historical points of interest. They can provide an idea of what you want to spend more time exploring later.  

While these tours don’t have an entry fee, nothing in life is genuinely 100% free ,and leaving a tip is expected in most situations. You may decide to tip more if the guide is knowledgeable and engaging.

39. A Paid Tour Can Be Better Than a Free Tour

You should also compare the free tours to private, guided tours. A paid tour can provide more hands-on support and access to more landmarks. 

In addition to researching the traditional tour providers, the experiences section in Airbnb can also provide curated opportunities to see the sights, enjoy culinary delights, or do physical activities like paddleboarding or folk dancing. 

Further Reading: Best Websites for Booking Cheap Tickets, Tours, & Activities

40. Look for Discounted Sightseeing Passes

Museums and entertainment attractions offer discounted and priority admission with sightseeing pass companies. So, instead of buying tickets directly from the tourist attractions you wish to visit, purchasing a city attraction card in advance can save money and means you won’t need to wait for hours (potentially) to buy a ticket at the door.

For domestic trips, CityPASS® offers discounted packages in approximately 15 major U.S. cities. Entertainment.com can also help you save on experiences in the United States and Canada.

If you’re flying to the “Eternal City” of Rome, Italy, the Roma Tourist Card is worth the upfront cost as you can enjoy these benefits:   

• Skip-the-line access at the Roman Colosseum
• Guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica
• Access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel
• Audio guides for the Pantheon and Rome
• Free return transfer to or from Rome’s international airports (Ciampino and Fiumicino)
• 10% discount on other attractions, museums, and tours

Depending on the program, you may need to book your pass weeks in advance.

41. Get an Interrail Pass for a Eurotrip

If you’re backpacking Europe or touring several countries, an Interrail Pass from Eurail can make it easier to finalize your transportation plan using an interactive map. This platform lets you visit up to 33 countries by rail with a single pass. 

42. Have a Flexible Travel Schedule

Mapping out an initial plan for each day can help you seize the day and optimize your time of playing tourist. Meanwhile, remaining flexible is pivotal as several variables can alter your itinerary such as:

• A change in the weather
• Accomplishing more than you originally scheduled 
• Making friends with other travelers and having dinner with them
• Realizing a planned activity isn’t as appealing once you arrive 

Another related suggestion is to get out and explore the city and the immediate area on your arrival date (time permitting) so you have a better idea of what to do the next day.

43. Wear Sunscreen Early and Often For Beach & Outdoor Trips

There is nothing worse than getting a bad sunburn at the beginning of a trip. Find a good facial sunscreen and buy a travel-sized container. Apply it to your face and neck a few times per day. For beach trips, either cover up with a hat and clothing or apply strong sunscreen to your body multiple times per day. While it may be annoying, it is much better than dealing with painful and peeling sunburn.

Sunscreen is usually marked up at typical tourist spots. If you check a bag, consider buying what you need before leaving and packing it.

44. Use an ATM Instead of a Currency Exchange Booth

Instead of heading directly to the currency exchange booth at the airport or train terminal, look for an ATM instead. Several should be in the public terminals or you can look for a local bank branch to find a secure location.

Why? ATMs provide better currency exchange ratios than the money exchange booth. Even if you pay foreign transaction fees and non-network ATM fees, you will most likely come out ahead financially speaking.

45. Use a Credit Card With No Foreign Transaction Fees

Many travel-focused credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred , the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card , and The Platinum Card from American Express do not have foreign transaction fees. Use cards like those when traveling internationally to avoid potentially expensive fees.

46. Bring at Least One Backup Credit Card

Getting stuck on vacation with no access to money (besides cash) is not something you want to experience; Your main credit card could get lost or stolen. Carry at least one backup credit card (ideally with no foreign transaction fees if overseas) on all trips.

Phil Dengler’s Favorite Travel Tips

Here are a few of Phil’s favorite travel tips.

47. Be Very Flexible – Pick Your Travel Dates Based on the Cheapest Days to Fly

Flights are usually the most costly part of a vacation. I recommend using Google Flights calendar view to find the cheapest days to fly to and from your destination. After identifying those days, book your airfare. You must be flexible, but it can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars planning a vacation this way.

Further Reading: How to Find Cheap Flights and How to Use Google Flights

48. Book the Aisle and Window Seats When Traveling in Pairs

I always book the aisle and window seats when flying with my girlfriend or a friend. No one wants to sit in the middle seat, so people rarely select it. Doing this usually gives us the entire row to ourselves.

It does not work on full flights, however. The good news is people are usually willing to trade their middle seat. Simply offer them your aisle or window seat and you still get to sit next to your significant other or friend.

Further Reading: Can You (and Should You) Change Airplane Seats With Someone Else on a Flight?

49. Follow Proper Airline Etiquette

Knowing how to properly act on a plane can better your flying experience. See our following guides for more information.

• Airplane Seat Reclining Etiquette
• Overhead Bin Space Etiquette – Who Does it Belong To and How to Avoid Fights

The Vacationer’s Final Thoughts

Taking the time to plan for a vacation, whether it’s the annual beach trip or you’re trying some new place, lets you practice these travel tips and not stress before or during your expedition. 

The best part is that you don’t need to be a travel pro to successfully implement these suggestions. If you’re a beginner, try adopting several more each time you leave home.

By Josh Patoka

Josh Patoka writes about maximizing travel rewards for The Vacationer. As well, he contributes to several personal finance sites specializing in making money, paying off debt, and investing.

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What are you looking for?

90 travel tips & tricks to save you time, money & stress.

After more than 5 years spent travelling the world, visiting many of the best backpacking destinations you can think of, we figured it time to put together our top travel tips!

These are all tips we’ve used over the years and are planning to use on our future travels. 

Many have been hard learned after making plenty of mistakes over the years!

So if you're just starting out on your world travel adventures, take note to help you avoid making the same mistakes.

They should help you with everything, right through from planning your adventures, to saving money and even how to stay safe on the road!

Plus, we’ve split this guide into different sections to help you out, you're welcome!

Want our overall top 10 best tips? Here they are ...

Travellerspoint

Travel planning tips

1. take out annual travel insurance .

It’s important to ALWAYS travel with travel insurance. 

It’s a silly risk to take if you’re not covered and you’ll soon find that paying for healthcare out of your own pocket is very very expensive. 

If you’re taking more than one trip a year, it’s often more feasible to take out an annual policy. Or one that auto-renews each month; but allows you to pause when not needed (which is what SafetyWing offer)

You also need to make sure it includes covid cover which limited travel policies still do.

Luckily, SafetyWing offers both of these things. We have used them and can recommend them as an awesome policy for most travellers. So be sure to check them out and get a quote . They have very straightforward pricing and policy details.

2. The earlier you book, the cheaper the flights 

Most flight companies release their flight schedule a year ahead of time, but that doesn’t mean it’s the best deal. 

There seems to be a sweet spot when it comes to booking flights, and that tends to be around 4-6 month mark.

That's not to say that you can’t bag some great last minute deals!

However if like us you like to be a little prepared when booking long haul flights, then this is a good guideline to aim for.

Sure, you may be able to save a little more closer to the time, but you could also end up being forced to pay a lot more!

3. Book refundable hotel rooms

You’ll soon find that when travelling (especially when backpacking), your plans don’t always play out. 

This means you’ll need to cancel hotel bookings last minute. 

Rather than losing out on that money, it's great to use a website like Booking.com or Airbnb, who (most of the time) offer free cancellations (sometimes even on the day you’re due to arrive!) 

This has proven really useful for us in last minute situations where circumstances have changed. 

To save even more time with this process, I recommend using a price comparison site like CozyCozy which compares properties around a given location.

They rank all properties across both Airbnb & Booking.com, making this search process 10 times easier. And even have the option to only show properties with flexible cancellation terms.

We've got plenty of other travel tips on how to get cheap hotel rooms if you're interested...

4. Start preparing your trip at least 6 weeks before you go

We love a last minute trip, and whilst they are great, if you’re going somewhere that requires a specific visa, then some visa applications can take up to 6 weeks, so bear this in mind when you’re planning your travels. 

There are lots of great services online, like Natvisa which take much of the stress out of visa applications and show you exactly what you need to do and how far in advance.

Plus, it’s the same with vaccinations and planning certain tourist sights. 

For example, getting tickets for hot spots like the Anne Frank Museum in Amsterdam , or the Statue of Liberty in New York require booking at least a few weeks in advance. 

5. Book vacation time well before you go 

Most people aren’t digital nomads who work whilst travelling, so remember to book your vacation time well before you go. 

If you can, build up your vacation time so that you can really make the most of your trip!

If you’re heading on a city break try and book a Thursday and/or Monday off, so that you can turn it into a long weekend. 

A city like Barcelona only needs 2 nights to discover the highlights!

6. Bookmark posts on Instagram to remember great places to visit

This is such a great travel tip and something I’ve started doing in more recent years. 

Instagram is a haven for travel inspiration, and you can discover some pretty awesome places, both popular and remote.

If you save those travel photos , you can go in search of them when you visit a location, and lots of time people tag the location in their photos which is super helpful. 

I found myself with a lot of places to discover from Instagram when we visited The Philippines . 

It was awesome! 

7. Bring more than one credit/debit card with you 

Don’t make the mistake of just travelling with one bank card. 

It’s too easy for it to go missing, to break, be stolen, and there is even the chance that the ATM will not accept it (or eat the card!). 

Prepare for this by bringing at least 2 or 3 cards with you. 

This could be one debit card, one credit card, and a travel card. 

If you’re from the UK (like us) then you should check out Monzo and Revolut .

Here are some guides that you might find helpful if you're looking to get a travel card:

• Monzo Vs Revolut Which Is Best For Travel? [Full Comparison]
• Wise Vs Revolut: Which Is Better? [Detailed And Unbiased]

8. Purchase a quality backpack or suitcase

Before you head off on an adventure, it’s a good idea to research different backpacks and suitcases that will perform well in the environment you’re visiting.

Of course if you’re just visiting one destination that’s quite tourist friendly, then you’ll probably not need something robust and sturdy, but if you’re backpacking for long periods of time in different terrains and places, then you’re going to need a backpack that can handle that environment.

‍ Typically, higher quality backpacks are a little more expensive, BUT, they last a lot longer!  My top recommendation at the moment would be the Tropicfeel Shell backpack .

As an added tip, ask for your bag as a Christmas/birthday backpacking gift . Our parents paid for our first backpacks as a Christmas gift before we first set off to South America.

9. Allow at least 1.5 hours between connection flights

Bradley and I have taken a lot of connection flights over the years, and I’ve learnt that there is a perfect balance when it comes to a connection time.

Clearly you don’t want it to be too long, because the wait is just annoying, but you also don’t want it to be too short, because that means there is no room for error. 

We’ve often had flight connection times that were 45 minutes, and when our first flight landed 15 minutes late, and we still have to go through security, run to a different boarding gate, or get on the next flight, there suddenly is NOT a lot of time! 

We’ve found that a 1.5 hour connection time seems to work well. You’ll have time to go to the toilet and catch a coffee before your next flight. 

10. Use Skyscanner before booking any flight

We have never booked a flight without using Skyscanner . 

Skyscanner is a flight comparison website and it shows you the best possible flight combinations, in terms of time and price. 

You’ll never definitely get it cheaper searching direct (unless you have points of course), so Skycanner is the best way to find the best deals on flights all over the world. 

Plus you can set up price alerts if you’re looking to buy flights at the cheapest price! 

11. Book tickets online when possible 

Booking tickets online for all aspects of travel has become very popular. We are in a digital age where paper isn’t really necessary. 

With regards to travelling, this is really useful. 

There’s less complication and confusion when everything is online. 

Plus, you’ll often see that when you’re booking tourist attractions online, you can get discounts, coupon codes and flash deals that will allow you to save money. 

We typically use GetYourGuide & Klook for all our tour needs.

12. Compare tour sites before booking (Klook/GYG/Viator)

On the same note … there are a lot of tour companies online offering different deals and experiences, but you’d be surprised at just how much the difference in price can be between some of these companies.

We always cross-check different websites for the same tour or experience, to see who is giving the best deal.  

Sometimes this might only be a couple of dollars, but if you’re on a budget, this will add up! 

Here’s all the tour sites we have used and recommend:

• GetYourGuide
• Forever Vacation
• 12Go ← Not for tours, but excellent on transfers

13. Use Rome2Rio to make planning transfers a LOT easier

Rome2Rio is a fantastic website which lets you type in any two locations in the world and it will give you all the options of getting there, alongside the estimated cost.

This is really good, not only for planning a travel route , but also for quickly working out a rough budget.

The one thing I will say is to never take their prices as a firm answer.

When it comes to actually booking, prices on your chosen days can be a lot different, so instead use them as a rough estimate.

14. Check into your flight as soon as it opens to get seats together 

It’s really annoying when you book flights with your friends or partners and the airline wants to charge you $30 a seat each so that you can sit together. 

I don’t think it’s justifiable. 

But there is a way around it. 

All airlines will tell you the exact time their check-in will open for a flight.

I suggest you set an alarm and check it right at that moment, and you’ll likely get to sit next together. 

This has always worked for us, especially on long haul flights. 

Some airlines, like Ryanair, purposely seat you away from each other because you didn’t pay for extra seats, but they’re a short haul airline, so it’s fine! 

15. Use Facebook groups for local experiences 

A great way to discover local experiences that are low-cost, or free is via Facebook groups. 

Most popular destinations will have a Facebook group that’s dedicated to sharing information about travelling around that destination.  

We found this group super useful when planning our visit to Sri Lanka.

At the time, drone laws were incredibly vague in Sri Lanka and this group was vital in helping us to find out if we could take our drone and also to providing unique spots to film.

Here’s 2 other groups we’ve used regularly over the years:

• Travel Around the World - Backpackers
• Backpacking Europe

Packing tips

16. plan your clothing for all the seasons you’ll be experiencing .

If you’re doing an adventure trip but you're only going to warm destinations, then you certainly won’t need a thick jacket, jumpers or a hat. 

So don’t pack those unnecessary items. 

BUT if you’re planning on visiting somewhere like South America , where you will pass through a variety of climates from very hot to very cold, then you’ll want to plan for that. 

Especially in that continent where buying warm clothes isn’t cheap. 

I remember being stood outside of Ushuaia airport in southern Argentina, shivering under a blanket because we hadn’t brought any cold weather clothes with us!

17. Don’t bring more than 2 pairs of shoes 

When we first started backpacking, I’m pretty sure I took 4 pairs of shoes with me! 

I had hiking boots, I had trainers, I had a pair flip flops and I had a pair of Skechers. 

This is WAY too much. I now carry two. 

I always have my water shoes, and a pair of Skechers or Tropicfeel shoes which work well for walking and day-to-day outfits. 

If I need other shoes, such as flip flops, I’ll buy a cheap pair in the country I’m visiting. 

If you’re heading on a shorter trip, then sure, you can throw in your favourite pair of sandals or boots, but not when you’re backpacking for a longer period of time.

18. Bring enough underwear for at least a week 

I guess this also applies to all clothing. 

Basically pack enough clothes for a week. 

I’m not talking about full outfits either, it’s easy to bring 2 pairs of shorts and a couple of tops and suddenly you’ve got like 5 different outfits. 

But always pack a week's worth of underwear. I actually bring about 10 days worth, simply because I always seem to lose something.

19. Bring ear plugs 

Ear plugs are really useful for a lot of occasions when travelling. 

They’re perfect for plane travel, when you want to get some sleep, they’re really good for hostels, perfect for busy cities when the walls can’t drown out that city noise, and super long bus and train journeys throughout the country. 

Or, if your partner simply snores a lot! 

If you struggle sleeping in different light conditions, then an eye mask might be a good idea too. But these are typically provided on long-haul flights so you can just take it off the plane with you. 

20. Pack a small towel with you

When we first started travelling we used to bring a big towel each. 

Turns out, it just took up too much room and it was unnecessary as every hotel we have ever stayed in has provided us with towels. 

But bringing a small towel is a great idea for the days you are chasing waterfalls or by the beach and need to dry yourself off. 

Here’s a great lightweight, fast-drying towel .

21. Don’t bring lots of hair products/body wash products with you 

Lots of people make the mistake of bringing shampoo and conditioner, body wash, and maybe some lotion. 

This really isn’t necessary. 

Firstly, it takes up valuable space, and valuable weight from your luggage.

Rather, most hotels and hostels will provide you with these, and if you wish, you can pick up a smaller version of them at the airport, or even in the country you're visiting. 

There is no real need to bring your own with you (unless you have a specific skin condition). 

22. Use packing cubes 

Packing cubes are an excellent way to maximise the space in your suitcase or backpack. 

They are also very useful for bringing some sort of organisation when travelling. 

You’ll also find you can fit more in when you use packing cubes, because you become strategic with how you pack. 

Again these are easily purchased online .

23. Always pack a sarong

This is more relevant for women, but it also is necessary for men in quite a few countries. 

A sarong is required at a lot of religious sites across Asia. 

When you’re travelling in a hot continent like Asia, naturally you want to have lightweight clothing on, which usually means your shoulders are exposed. 

This is a big no-no if you want to enter certain religious sights, so having a lightweight sarong with you is an easy way to cover up . 

Plus they’re great as cover ups by the beach, or or lie on instead of a towel. 

24. Bring a small travel first aid kit

We always travel with a small first aid kit that’s packed with the essentials. 

This includes paracetamol, flu tablets, tablets to help your tummy when issues arise due to food, plasters, antiseptic cream and a couple of bandages.  

You may wish to put more or less in, but that tends to be a good start and will help you with any minor issues. 

25. Pack your backpack, then remove a third

Overpacking a backpack is so easy to do. I mentioned above that a week’s worth of clothes is enough, but naturally when you start packing, you’ll do more than that- trust me. 

So I suggest you pack your backpack with everything you think you need, then you get rid of a third of it.  

You will thank me later when your back isn’t killing you and you realize having an extra 3 dress, or shorts is unnecessary. 

For more of an idea what to bring, check out our travel packing list ! 

26. Bring extra memory cards

Travel is all about creating memories and most people don’t travel with a laptop like Bradley and I do. 

So you’ll not have a way to back up your photos and delete them to create space on your memory card. 

So rather than having to delete precious photos, I suggest you bring extra memory cards with you . 

This means you never have to miss out on an epic photo. 

Here’s the memory cards we use (oh, and be sure to grab a hard case as well so as to keep them all safe and organised!)

27. Bring a light jacket 

Always bring a light jacket when travelling. 

Not only do they class up an outfit (when needed), but even if you’re visiting the hottest of countries, it tends to get chilly in the evenings. 

You’ll also notice that when your body starts adapting to the heat, you’ll feel colder at temperatures you never thought you could! 

They’ll also keep you warm on the plane and bus journeys that are typically cold from air conditioning.

28. Test the weight of your backpack and make sure you can actually carry it

This goes hand-in-hand with your overpacking. 

But whilst avoiding overpacking is important, it’s also important to consider the weight of what you are packing. 

Remember, you’re going to be carrying your backpack around with you. 

And if you’re on a real low budget, then you’ll probably be walking from train stations to your accommodation.  

It’s therefore important to test the weight against what you can actually carry. 

Pop your backpack on and go for a 10 minute walk, you’ll soon find out whether it’s too heavy or not. 

29. Carry a small bag within your backpack for dirty laundry 

Keeping your clean and dirty clothes separate is not only great for your sanity but for obvious cleanliness reasons too. 

Just bring a small extra bag that you can pop your dirty clothes in, then this is the bag you can send to the laundry room when washing clothes! 

Bradley and I share the same bag to save space. 

30. Bring toilet roll tissues with you

In a lot of countries, toilet roll is a luxury, and if you’re doing some serious travelling you will find yourself going to the bathroom in a hole in the ground where there is no form of toilet paper. 

Just the classic bucket of water situation. 

I always suggest you carry a roll of toilet paper, or if on day-trips then a packet of tissues that you can use when necessary. 

31. Use a packing list to help you pack 

Packing lists are a really useful way to visually see and check off everything you need to bring with you on a trip. 

You can either create your own, or use an online list and combine it with yours to make sure you’ve covered all angles. 

We’ve actually created some pretty cool packing lists for certain destinations that you can check out below.

• Sri Lanka Packing List
• Thailand Packing List
• Bali Packing List
• India Packing List

32. Bring an universal adapter

You can’t travel without a universal adapter. 

It’s an absolutely travel necessity! 

Adapters can change from country to country, so a universal adapter will allow you to stay charged whilst travelling the world. 

We recommend this one here.

Sightseeing travel tips

33. don’t overplan every detail (learn to go with the flow) .

I LOVE to plan, but sometimes that’s actually a downfall. 

Sometimes when you overplan everything, you become rigid and restricted in what you can and want to do. 

This means if something doesn’t go to plan, you’ll be disappointed or frustrated. 

Well, things will not go to plan all the time, so it’s important to learn to go with the flow. 

Some of our best travel adventures and memories were completely unexpected.

34. Wake up early to beat the crowds 

If you wonder how people take great travel photos with no one else in the background, it’s the art of getting up early. 

Most people often think “oh it’s just Photoshopped”, not always true. 

If you’re one of the first people to arrive at a destination, then you’ll easily beat the crowds! 

It’s really nice having a spot to yourself before others arrive, it gives you a sense of peacefulness and excitement. 

You’ll really have the chance to appreciate your surroundings.

35. Only carry what you need when sightseeing 

Only take the bare essentials when you're sightseeing. 

If you’ve got a lot of important documents and items with you, you’ll spend most of your time worried that something will be stolen, or has gone missing. 

Take only what you need and it’ll be a lot less stressful. Don’t flash your cash or fancy jewels either. 

It just puts you at increased risk from thieves.

36. Eat local 

Now, I can’t say that I’ve never been to a Mcdonalds in a foreign country. 

It’s a great place to pee and get a coffee or a snack at night, but don’t let that replace the amazing local cuisine that will surround you!

Try new foods, ask locals for food recommendations and support the local businesses. 

I have to say our favourite country for amazing local food is India . 

India has the best food in the world, and after 3 weeks of eating there we never got the dreaded Delhi Belly .

37. Bring a decent camera to take amazing photos

Whilst you don’t need a super expensive camera to take great photos , it’s still worth having a phone or camera that can take good quality pictures. 

You will constantly be surrounded with the opportunity to take pictures and you should! 

Photos are the best way to capture a memory and look back on it in the future.

When we travel, we take:

• Our blogging cameras
• Our travel drone
• GoPro/Alternative action cam

38. Bring a GoPro if you’re going somewhere water-based

If you’re travelling somewhere that’s famous for it’s waters, then you’re going to want to bring a GoPro - trust me. 

We didn’t bring a GoPro to The Philippines and honestly it’s one of the biggest travel regrets we have!

If you want awesome underwater footage, great snorkeling pictures etc, then bring your GoPro! Or a great quality GoPro alternative that can capture epic places in just as much detail.

We now have the GoPro Hero 9 and the quality is just fantastic. 

39. Don’t be afraid to get lost 

Getting lost often leads you to new places and new adventures, so don’t be worried when you do. 

When you get lost for real in a destination, locals are more than happy to help you find your way back. 

So enjoy the experience of where you are and take the unknown road. You never know where it could lead! 

40. Try new things (but don’t be afraid to say no)

Travelling is all about pushing yourself to try new things and new experiences in a new country. This is fantastic, but don’t be afraid to say no.  

If you’re terrified of something, don’t just do it because you feel like you have to because you’re travelling, or it’s “for the Gram”. 

Only do things you are genuinely interested and comfortable doing. 

Just because someone else is doing it, doesn’t mean you need to either. 

Especially if said thing is unsafe. 

41. Get friendly with locals 

Some of our favourite travel moments are from making friends with locals. 

We’ve met some amazing people over the years and chatting with people who live and breathe the country you're visiting is such an amazing way to get real insight into what the country is like, rather than just what’s in the guidebooks. 

Some of my favourite moments are enjoying a fire with the locals outside in Nagarkot (Nepal) , chatting about life and learning about Nepaliese pop music, and meeting awesome locals in El Salvador who invited us for surfing and a really great night out. 

They’ll also find you locations to discover that you didn’t know existed! 

42. Be respectful & mindful 

Different countries have different religions and rules that need to be abided. 

Just because it’s something you’re not used to, or you don’t necessarily agree with, doesn’t mean you just blatantly ignore it. 

For example, in Muslim countries it’s important not to go around showing off loads of skin. 

Local people are tolerable to a certain extent of course, but it’s nice to be respectful of a culture and to reflect that in your actions when visiting their country. 

Failing to do so could land you in a lot of trouble.

43. Ask permission when taking pictures of locals 

It’s important to remember that when you’re a new destination, the people of that country aren’t zoo animals that you’re looking at. 

So what I mean is, that you can’t just take close up pictures of them without asking. 

You’ll often find most people say yes to pictures being taken, but just ask first. 

This is especially true if you’re taking pictures of local children. Just be wary of what you’re doing. 

I have to say, I wish this worked the other way. 

When in India I felt like I had the paparazzi with me anywhere I went. 

People were constantly taking my picture, to the point crowds would form and I would be overwhelmed. I’m not joking . 

But, I realise I look unique to them, so I accept it to a certain extent, but say no when I feel uncomfortable.

44. Bring a power bank with you when on long day trips 

When you’re using your phone to navigate yourself, taking pictures and using Instagram or other apps, you’ll find that your battery is going to drain pretty quickly. 

This can often be really frustrating, so I suggest bringing a power bank with you so that you can keep your phone charged when out on your adventures. 

Better yet, grab a solar powered one that recharges itself throughout the day!

45. Google translate can be useful when you’re struggling to communicate 

Google translate has saved us quite a few times! 

It’s all well and good knowing little bits of the local language, but if you need to ask something specific, you’ll run into problems. 

A great way to overcome this is simply by using Google translate.

It’s also a good way to learn new phrases too! 

46. Don’t be afraid to see the generic tourist attractions 

There seems to be some sort of stigma when it comes to sightseeing certain attractions. 

So you’ll often see bloggers and travellers stating things about getting off the beaten track, and “alternative things to do in, such and such”. 

Well, that’s great, but it’s also completely fine to see the generic popular sights of a city or country. 

They are popular for a reason. 

I wasn’t disappointed by a single sight when we visited Rome , but they were all very touristy. Who cares! It’s your trip, see and do whatever makes you happy. 

47. Rent a car at your destination when possible 

There is no better way to explore a country than with a set of wheels. 

Whether it’s a car, moped, or a tuk-tuk ( like we had in Sri Lanka! ), having your own vehicle allows you to explore far more than you ever could on a tour. 

Even just driving the local roads will give you a whole new perspective on a country.

We always suggest that if it’s possible, then rent a car for at least a day and head out and find new things to discover. 

Rentalcars.com is a great website to compare rental car prices around the world. 

48. Or better yet, a campervan!

If the opportunity is there, then 100% get a campervan.

Our favourite trips around the world have been in campervans and it’s our go-to form of transport when planning most new trips .

We’ve had the opportunity to wild camp in some of the most epic locations around the world. 

The most memorable being around Norway when we saw the Northern Lights almost every night! 

A campervan is a great way to just emerge yourself in the nature and surroundings of a country and it can be a useful way to save money as you’ll be combining accommodation, cooking and travel costs into one. Living and travelling from a campervan is also becoming more and more common .

Useful guides:

• Best campervan rentals in Norway
• Best campervan rentals in Portugal
• Best campervan rentals in France
• Best campervan rentals in Scotland
• Best campervan rentals in Ireland

49. Use Atlas Obscura to find cool sights off-the-beaten-path

Atlas Obscuras has proved extremely useful is finding the most random attractions, but also great fun.

For example, when road tripping Sweden , two of our favourite spots were found through Atlas Obscura:

• Esrange Space Centre ← Yes, we got to visit a space centre!
• Lovikkavanten ← The world’s largest hand-knitted mitten .. I know, jealous much!?

They weren’t mentioned on any other travel blogs so we’d have missed them otherwise!

If you’re revisiting a destination you’ve been to before, or you’ve managed to see all the sights you want to see and still have some time left, then this is a fantastic way to discover even more. Seriously a lot of the time you wonder how these places were even found! 

Budget travel tips

50. don’t be afraid to haggle  .

In many countries, when you’re at a market or even trying to buy a tour from a local street vendor, haggling is expected.

Of course there is a fine line between getting a great deal and offending someone. 

Naturally, when locals expect you to haggle, they start you off at a price that’s crazy high (something you would never pay back home), that’s because they expect you to cut it by half and start your negotiations from there. 

Sometimes, if you’re haggling for the sake of a couple of dollars it’s not worth it, so you may just want to pay the little extra.

But haggling can be a lot of fun once you get the hang of it, and a great way to share a joke with a local! 

51. Lunchtime always has the best meal deals in restaurants 

We’ve found this to be the case in many countries all around the world, such as Bolivia, France, Ireland , Peru, and Spain.

Lunch time is the time of day you can get great meal deals in restaurants.  

Typically it could be a set menu for a low price (in Bolivia it’s $2 for a 3 course meal!), or all lunch dishes are $5, and things like that. 

So if you want cheaper food, then have your bigger meal at lunch time and something smaller for dinner. 

52. Book a hotel/hostel that includes breakfast

Tonnes of hotels and hostels include breakfast in their rate, but if they don’t, you’ll often have the option to add it on. 

In Asia, this typically costs an extra $1-2 so it’s worth doing. 

When possible, we try and choose an accommodation option that includes our breakfast. 

That’s one less meal we have to worry about paying for! 

If you’re really tight on money, you could also book accommodation that has cooking facilities so you can cook your own lunch and dinner. 

53. If you’re still a student - don’t forget your student card for discounts

We aren’t students any more, but when I went to South America , I still had a valid in-date student card and was able to get some great discounts, especially on famous sights in Rio de Janeiro. You’ll also get lots of discounts throughout Europe, so it’s definitely worth bringing your student card with you on your travels. 

54. Take advantage of free walking tours/travel experiences

Most cities nowadays seem to offer some form of free walking tour and over the years Bradley and I have partaken in quite a few. 

They are a great way to get some extra insight into a destination and work out sights you want to return too. 

We did one in Rome which was excellent, and in Buenos Aires which was fantastic! Of course when they mean free, it doesn’t mean totally free. 

You should give your guide a tip, as that’s what their earnings are based on! It’ll always cost less than actually forking out for a tour. 

55. Shoulder season is the BEST time to travel 

Shoulder season is brilliant for a variety of reasons. 

Firstly there are less people and the weather is usually still great, but the most appealing reason is that it’s always cheaper. 

You’ll get cheaper flights, cheaper accommodation and even cheaper entrance fees. 

So shoulder season is the sweet spot for anyone wanting to save money whilst travelling. 

56. Travelling with a friend or partner is always cheaper 

Whether it’s a romantic partner or a great friend, travelling with someone else always seems to work out cheaper. 

You’ll be able to get a twin room/double room often for less than it costs for two dorm beds, you’ll be able to haggle for better prices on tours, and you can split food bills and taxis. 

It’s one of the reasons Bradley and I love travelling as a couple !

57. Carry one laundry soap bar and wash the basics yourself

Laundry soap bars are very cheap and a great way to keep on top of your washing. 

When travelling, doing the laundry is actually time consuming, so we often try to do it once a week, or every 10 days, but this means we might run out of basics, like underwear. 

When you’ve got your own laundry soap bar, you can clean these yourself to stay on top of things. 

58. Use Revolut/Monzo for the best exchange rates (avoid airport exchanging)

Monzo and Revolut are two digital banking systems that offer the best exchange rates on the market. 

There is no hidden detail or charges, it’s very basic and you get the best exchange rate available.

You also get no charges for withdrawals up to a certain amount, which in the UK is £200 per month on each card.

So we often travel with two cards each, which means we get £800 worth of free withdrawals between us monthly. 

You’ll find that most places take cards nowadays anyway, so you never really go over the limit. But even if you do, it’s only a small percentage (2%). 

Exchanging at the airport is a waste of time and money. 

Just withdraw your money from the ATM at the destination you’ve arrived at with your travel card.

REMEMBER, when the ATM asks you to choose either the ATMs exchange rate or your bank’s, you choose your bank’s. 

This option is sometimes called: “continue without conversion”.

59. Couchsurfing is a great low-budget accommodation option 

We’ve only done couch surfing once, when in Chile, but it was amazing. 

We ended up staying with a wonderful couple who we are still in touch with today. 

Staying with locals allows you to really see more of a country from a local perspective and it’s a great way to make new connections. 

Plus, couchsurfing works on a free basis. 

You stay at the hosts home for free, and in return, you are typically just expected to spend some time with and get to know them. 

You really never know just who you might meet!

60. Use local transport to save money

Local transport is always cheaper because locals use it. 

It’s true, in some countries local transport is over-crowded, not very safe, and just very manic.

But if you like a challenge, then it’s always fun to use and the cheapest way to get around. 

It’s always best to just ask a local for advice with local transport. 

Tell them where you want to go and they’ll point you to the right train or bus. 

61. Pick up a Handpresso and still have great coffee every day

This is an awesome device I recently discovered as Bradley got me one for my birthday! 

This nifty device allows you to make real espresso on the go! 

All you need is your coffee and hot water and you’re ready to make great coffee.

I’m a coffee lover, and sometimes I miss espresso coffee when travelling, especially when on a road trip , so this is a brilliant alternative and a great way for me to get my caffeine fix! 

It also means you can pick up local coffee from around the world and try it when travelling. Central America is a great place for this since it has so many amazing coffee regions including, Nicaragua , Honduras, Guatemala , Costa Rica & El Salvador .

62. Make full use of sign up codes

Sign up codes are a great travel tip when you want to save money for travel !

Lots of accommodation websites use sign up codes to entice you into your first booking, and if a sign up code requires an email address, remember you can use different email addresses to reuse the code on different occasions. 

Here are a few of our sign up codes you can use to get started:

Be sure to pass your own referral code onto friends and relatives so you can benefit again and again!

Travel safety tips

63. always bring a lock for your bags/items .

A lock is a good way to help keep your items more secure. 

I do think that they aren’t full proof, because if someone wants to steal your stuff, then a lock won’t stand in their way. 

But it can act as a deterrent. Locks are cheap, just make sure you don’t lose the keys! 

64. When carrying medical supplies: split between two bags 

Since I have type 1 diabetes, this is an important factor for me, but lots of people travel with some sort of condition or illness and if that applies to you, then make sure you split your important supplies between two different bags. 

It could be your bag and your travel partners bag, or a day bag or a main bag. 

This means if something gets stolen (or ruined), you have a backup plan.

65. Ask locals for advice on the local safety 

No one knows the safety of a city or country better than the locals themselves.

Ask your hotel staff or guy at the coffee shop if the area is safe. 

Ask if there are anything extra precautions you should take, can you walk alone at night, should you trust the taxi drivers, etc.  

You’ll often find that locals want to keep you safe, so that you can encourage others to visit, so they’ll be open and honest. We’ve always found this. 

66. Be careful with who you trust 

Unfortunately not everyone you meet will have your best interests at heart. 

So, you need to find the balance between trusting people and having your guard up. 

This is actually a pretty difficult balance to find, especially when you’re approached by locals in the street. 

You just need to keep common sense. 

If you ask for directions and you know it’s somewhere left, and the person you ask is directing you another way, then the chances are, they’re not trying to help. 

This happens in Marrakech a lot. Some people are genuine, but you just need to be wary. 

67. Let someone else know your travel plans 

This is pretty easy to do if you’re sharing your travels on social media. 

Often I’ll say on Instagram stories what the plans are for the day, where we are going, and this is really useful if suddenly we were inactive, someone would know the last place we said we were. 

This also works for if you’re travelling solo, tell someone at the hostel desk where you’re planning on heading out to, or let your friends and family know back home, so that if they don’t hear from you, then they have a starting place on where to look. 

68. Don’t put all your money/bank cards in one bag 

I’ve mentioned before the importance of taking more than one bank card with you when travelling, but it’s also smart not to place them altogether. 

You should separate your cards into different bags so that if one bag goes missing, you’ve still got another. 

69. Plan your routes (at least roughly) before you go on an adventure

This is more applicable to daily days when travelling. 

If you’re heading out for the day it’s a good idea to plan your route before you leave. 

This means you’ve got an idea of when places close, and ensure you’re closer to your hotel/hostel before dark. 

It also allows you to feel secure in where you’re going, so if someone tries to offer you advice that throws you off track, you can stick to the route you had planned. 

Of course things change, but it’s good to be prepared. 

70. Save the address of your accommodation on your phone 

Always save your hotel or hostel on Google Maps . 

This means if you get lost, or you need to show someone where you’re staying, you can show on Google maps rather than trying to explain verbally in a language you probably don’t speak. Locals can often work out where your hotel is once you show them a map, or if not, you can direct the taxi driver yourself to ensure you get back okay. 

This is another reason why we love Booking.com ; their mobile app syncs up to Google Maps; so once you’ve made a booking, you can quickly click through from the app to the exact location of the property on maps.

Other general travel tips

71. learn common phrases in the language of the country your visiting .

Not only is this a very useful travel tip, it’s actually pretty fun! 

I really enjoy trying to learn basic phrases in the language I visit. 

And honestly, this is one of the reasons I love visiting Central/South America, basically anywhere that speaks Spanish, because I love learning the language! 

You don’t need to know a lot, just basic, “hello”, “thank you”, “do you speak English”, tend to be useful and the locals really appreciate it.  

72. Make photocopies of important documents & digital copies 

This is really important.

Your passport is pretty much your most important document when travelling, you’ll need it to get into and out of a country. 

Sometimes it’s required in certain countries that you carry your passport with you daily for random spot checks. 

I can tell you that in all my years of travelling, this has never ever happened. 

So, instead I would carry a photocopy of my passport, and if they need further information, then I’ll just have to bring my actual passport to a station at a later date. 

With regards to health insurance documents and visa documents, make sure you have digital copies of those with you that are easily accessible.

73. Always carry extra passport photos

This is a really useful travel tip, that I only learnt from experience. 

You’ll need passport photos for random things, it could be a visa application at a border, or it could be to get a local sim card (this happened in India ). 

It’s really useful to carry just one or two passport photos with you and I usually keep mine in the back of my phone for safekeeping and easy access! 

74. Make sure your phone is unlocked to use local sims 

Local sims are the easiest and cheapest way to stay connected when travelling abroad. 

We’ve used local sims all around the world, from Nepal the USA, and they’ve always proven to be better value for money. 

You just need to ensure that your phone is unlocked, which basically means your phone will allow you to use another sim. 

Speak with your phone provider to find out if your phone is locked or unlocked. 

75. Plan for the unexpected 

We always plan for the “what could go wrong” before we head off on a big trip. 

You can’t predict absolutely everything, but it definitely brings you more confidence if you’re ready to accept some of the potential mishaps that could happen. 

For me, I like to have a rough idea of how I can get a hold of type 1 diabetes supplies, just in case something bad happens and my supplies get lost or broken.

If you like to be particularly cautious, you could always go ahead and download important local numbers, such as health services or the police.

76. Bring your own water bottle with you 

In the eco-friendly world we live in, or aspire to live in, this is definitely a great tip.

Bringing your own water bottle with you will ensure you use less plastic, and it also means you’ll save money on buying countless bottles of water. 

Lots of cities have water fountains, and typically if you ask your hostel/hotel or a cafe to fill up your water bottle, they will! 

You can get water purifiers too (if you’re worried about the quality of water you’re drinking).

77. Bring your own coffee cup with you 

I’m a coffee fanatic, and this is something I’ve started doing on my recent travels.

I now bring my own little pop up travel coffee cup that I use daily. 

This is perfect if you want to bring your coffee with you on the go, and if you’re grabbing a coffee from a cafe, you can use your own cup.  

It’s also handy for it to be collapsible as it saves space in my bags.

78. Slow travel is better than fast 

Slow travel is not only cheaper, but it’s just an all round better experience. 

You’ll get the chance to really immerse yourself in a new culture and way of life, and you’ll feel much more relaxed when sightseeing and visiting a country. 

There’s nothing worse than being super stressed that you’ve only got a day to see all the best sights in one location, then rushing through them and not really admiring or connecting with what you’re actually visiting. 

We’ve learnt this over the years, and I much prefer to give myself extra time than rush through a destination. 

After all, our mission is to see every country in the world, but we have a lifetime to do it!

79. Listen to your body & know when to rest

Travel burnout is a real thing and when you’re constantly on the move, constantly taking in new situations, experiences, your brain is on overdrive a lot of the time. 

Eventually you’ll just feel overwhelmed or super tired and you lose interest in what you're seeing. These are all signs that you just need to take a day or two to do nothing. 

Just relax, reconnect your thoughts, and then you’ll be ready to take on the world again! 

80. When flying, only sleep when your destination is sleeping (jet lag tip) 

I never get jet lagged (well, hardly ever) and it’s because I stick to this one rule:

I only sleep when my destination country is sleeping. 

So if I’m on an overnight flight, but my destination is awake, then I’m awake too and if I arrive in a country and I haven’t slept in hours but it’s not bedtime yet there, I force myself to stay awake. 

It’s a challenge, but it means you reset your body right away, so when you wake up, you’re already connecting to the new time zone.

I sleep really easily, so this marks it easier for me. But, it’s a good travel tip that genuinely works! 

For more flying tips, check out my guide on the best things to do on long flights .

81. Wear sunscreen!

It’s really important you protect your skin when travelling. 

The sun is a powerful thing and damage to your skin, and skin cancer is a real possibility if you do not wear suncream. 

If you’re going to be swimming and snorkelling, then opt for reef safe sunscreen when possible. But don’t let yourself burn! 

Suncream will be more expensive in hotter countries, so if you can get a great deal for suncream online, or in your hometown, stock up there. 

82. Move your feet and legs regularly on long haul flights 

People actually underestimate how easy it is to get blood clots in the legs when flying long haul. It’s really important to keep your feet moving. 

My legs have swollen a few times, and it’s not great! Wear flight socks when flying long haul, and get up and walk around the cabin. 

If you don’t want to get up a lot, then just do little feet exercises at your seat.

83. Carry hand sanitizer with you

This is a pretty basic, but important travel tip … always carry hand sanitizer! 

A lot of the toilets you’ll be visiting if you’re backpacking will not have any sort of cleaning facilities in place, and it’s super easy to pick up infection. 

Clean your hands before you eat too, as again, you don’t know what you’ve been touching all day. 

84. Download offline maps for your chosen country 

This is really useful when you don’t want to drain your battery with your internet data on whilst sightseeing. 

Mark all your sightseeing locations on Google Maps and download offline maps so that you access directions without the internet. 

This has been super useful for us when travelling and I can’t imagine how we survived without it before! 

85. Carry small change 

Whilst a lot of places accept card payments nowadays, when you visit very local places, the chances are, no cards will be accepted. 

So it’s good to have a small change with you.

Small change is also useful for local transportation. 

For example tuk-tuk drivers can’t break large notes, and it’s also good for restaurants and cafes when you’re leaving a tip! 

Try to use larger supermarkets and stores to break change, rather than a local market which will be less willing or able. 

86. Always check under the bed when leaving a hotel room 

As you travel more frequently, you’ll begin to develop your own little routine for hotel check-outs. But one tip I can give you is to always check under the bed! 

Stuff constantly falls underneath or even between the bed and you could misplace it easily. Bradley will confirm this, but we always find one sock under the bed before we leave hotel rooms...and that leads me to my next tip ...

87. Accept the fact you will loose socks

I don’t know why I keep losing socks, I don’t do it intentionally, I try to keep track of them, but I always end up losing my socks when travelling! 

They’re either stuck in between the beds, or they go missing when laundry is done, but you’ll just have to accept that those darn socks will disappear. 

88. Use a VPN to maintain access to your favourite sites

VPNs are not only a great way to protect yourself online, especially when using the internet in foreign countries where connections might not be as secure. 

But, it’s also perfect for being able to access websites that may not be accessible in your destination.

For example, in China where a lot of social media networks sites are blocked. Or if you just want to access Netflix movies from another region! 

There are lots of great VPNs on the market, but we can recommend this one for your travels. 

89. Keep in touch with family and friends (but not too much!)

It’s important to strike a balance when it comes to staying in connection with your friends and family. 

If you’re in touch too much then there is a good chance you will start to get homesick, whereas if you ring them weekly it’s fun to catch up on all the awesome activities and things you’ve seen that week.

Don’t feel guilty either, you’re family and friends want to have fun on your trip of a lifetime! 

I find that Instagram story updates are a great compromise.

That way, your friends and family can see what you’re up to every day and you don’t have to repeat the same stories for everyone!

90. Make sure you vaccinated

Lots of people decide to take the risk when it comes to travelling and vaccinations, but I think this is a silly attitude.

The conditions you’re getting vaccinated for can kill you, so why would you take the risk . 

Most vaccinations last a couple of years, and some a lifetime, so it’s an investment into your future travels. 

To find which vaccines you need for different countries, it’s always best to visit a travel nurse before you leave!

Oh, and make sure you visit at least a month in advance (ideally 2) so that you have enough time to receive the different vaccines needed.

Digital nomad?

Do not leave home without ensuring you have access to good quality internet, regardless of where you travel with a wifi hot spot .

GlocalMe are a great option for this, they have a range of devices to help you stay connected throughout the world.

We've been using their Numen Air, which is truly the best global 5G portable WIFI hotspot we've used!

If you're interested in being a digital nomad there are plenty of fantastic travel-related jobs out there...

What is your top travel tip?

So there you have it, our ultimate travel tips that will hopefully help you plan the perfect trip and ensure you have a fantastic time on your adventures! 

Now over to you ...

Drop a comment below letting me know either:

• What travel tip you found the most useful
• What is your top travel tip that you think I missed out from this post!

I'm always keen to pick up new travel tricks so would love to hear your thoughts and ideas!

Leave a comment

Let us know what you think.

5 million people can't be wrong

Vacation Vibes: 13 Travel Tips for a Relaxing and Stress-Free Trip

Traveling is an exciting and enriching experience but can also be stressful and overwhelming. Many factors can contribute to a less-than-ideal vacation, from packing and planning to navigating unfamiliar destinations.

However, with the right strategies and travel tips, you can ensure your next trip is smooth and enjoyable. This article will explore some of the best ways to minimize stress and maximize enjoyment so you can make the most of your time away.

1. Prepare Your Home Before Going on Vacation

Preparing your home before an extended vacation or work trip is important for several reasons: it wards off burglars, prevents damage to your home, and saves money. 

• Security: Turn on security cameras, set alarms, and put lights on timers
• Access: Put away your hidden spare key or give it to someone you trust
• Refrigerator: Leave it running, but clean it out
• Thermostat: 5 degrees higher in the summer and 5 degrees lower in the winter
• Appliances: Unplug all other appliances to save on your electric bill
• Valuables: Hide your valuables or lock them up in a safe
• Mail: Use the USPS Hold Mail service (up to 30 days)

Knowing that your home is safe and secure will give you peace of mind while you’re away. 

2. Handling Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and Cash

No matter which form of payment you choose, always notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans so they can monitor your account for unusual activity and help prevent fraud. You’ll also what to inquire about foreign transaction fees if you travel abroad. 

Using a credit card on vacation can have advantages over using a debit card. First, many credit cards offer rewards or cashback for purchases, which can help offset your vacation costs.

As well, credit cards offer more protection against fraud and unauthorized charges. If your credit card is lost or stolen, you can usually dispute the charges and not be held responsible. With a debit card, if someone gets hold of your card and PIN, they can empty your checking account.

How Much Cash Should You Travel With? The amount of cash you should bring on vacation depends on several factors, including your destination, trip length, budget, and personal preferences. A general rule of thumb is to get enough cash to cover your expenses for the first few days of your trip in case your credit cards are not accepted, or there’s a problem with your account.

Keeping Your Money Safe While Traveling . Keep cash, credit cards, and essential documents in a hidden pouch or money belt worn under your clothing to keep them safe from pickpockets. Also, be discreet when using cash or credit cards, and do not flash large amounts of cash publicly to avoid catching a thief’s eye. 

3. Preparing and Using Your Mobile Device Abroad

Contact your mobile carrier to inquire about international roaming plans, data usage rates, and other related charges that may apply when using your device abroad. Here are a few tips for preparing and using your cellphone while abroad:

• Some mobile carriers offer international roaming plans that allow you to use your existing SIM card or an eSIM card while traveling abroad. These plans may include additional charges and limits on data usage.
• In some countries, purchasing a local SIM card may be more cost-effective. This can be a good option if you plan to use your phone frequently and want to avoid high international roaming charges.
• Download offline maps and translation apps before your trip so you don’t have to waste your data. 
• Make sure you have a travel adapter compatible with the outlets in the country you’re visiting, so you can charge your device.

Generally, checking with your mobile carrier and researching your options before traveling is the best course of action.

4. Get Travel Insurance: It’s Worth The Peace of Mind

Travel insurance provides financial protection in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies while traveling. 

• Trip Cancellation or Interruption: Travel insurance can cover costs incurred if you cancel or interrupt your trip for a covered reason, such as illness, severe weather, or a death in the family.
• Medical Emergencies: Travel insurance can cover medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include emergency medical treatment, evacuation, and repatriation.
• Lost or Stolen Luggage: Travel insurance can cover lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and personal items.
• Emergency Assistance: Travel insurance can provide access to emergency assistance services, such as help with finding a doctor, arranging transportation, and providing translation services.

Be sure to read the policy’s fine print to understand what is covered and what is excluded before purchasing a travel insurance policy.

5. Research the Destination: Safety, Culture, and Laws

Researching your destination before vacation can help you better prepare for your trip and get the most out of your experience. Here are a few travel tips to consider during your research:

• Safety: Researching a destination can help you understand the safety risks and precautions you should take while traveling. This can include information on crime rates, dangerous locations, natural hazards, and political instability. Check out the U.S. Travel Advisory website.
• Culture and Customs: Understanding the culture and customs of a destination can help you better appreciate the local way of life and avoid any unintentional cultural mistakes.
• Laws and Regulations: Researching the destination’s laws and regulations can help you understand any restrictions or requirements you need to be aware of while traveling, such as visa requirements or local laws.

6. Create a Loose Travel Itinerary

Creating a travel itinerary can help you make the most of your vacation time and ensure that you get all the important sights and activities. It can help you budget your time and money by allowing you to plan out your activities and expenses in advance. It can also help you avoid rushing from place to place or feeling overwhelmed by too many options. 

7. Make Copies of Your Important Travel Documents

One of the most important travel tips is making copies of important travel documents, such as a passport, ID, and credit cards, before going on vacation. If the original documents are lost or stolen, having copies can help with replacement or verification processes. It’s also important to keep these copies in different places. Consider keeping a digital copy, a paper copy, and leaving a copy with a trusted friend or family member.

8. Stay Organized With A Travel Packing Checklist

A travel packing checklist is a great way to ensure you remember all necessary items before and after your vacation. It allows you to make a comprehensive list of everything you need to bring and to check off items as you pack them. This can save time and reduce stress by eliminating the need to constantly second-guess yourself about what you need to bring.

Additionally, a travel packing checklist can help you stay organized and ensure you have all the essentials, such as your passport, tickets, and medications, that you’ll need for your trip. Using a travel packing checklist can also help you avoid overpacking and reduce the chance of leaving something behind, saving you money and hassle in the long run.

9. Airport Travel Tips

Airports can be stressful, but there are steps you can take to make your experience as smooth as possible. By planning ahead, packing wisely, arriving early, staying organized, and being mindful, you can reduce stress and ensure a more pleasant airport experience. Additionally, staying calm and patient can help keep things in perspective when unexpected issues arise.

Here are several airport travel tips you can use to travel a little easier:

• Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to check in, clear security, and find your gate.
• Check-In Online: Many airlines allow you to check in and print your boarding pass at home, saving you time at the airport.
• Pack Smart: Pack only what you need and be mindful of the size and weight of your luggage. Check with your airline for their carry-on and checked baggage allowances.
• Wear Comfortable Clothes: Dress comfortably for your flight and wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off for security.
• Knowing What You Can Bring: Be familiar with the TSA’s guidelines for carry-on and checked baggage and what items are prohibited.
• Stay Organized: Keep your travel documents, ID, and other important items easily accessible and organized.
• Stay Connected: Keep your phone and other devices charged, and consider a portable charger or battery pack.
• Be Patient: Air travel can be stressful, but stay patient and calm. Remember that things may not always go as planned, but you’ll reach your destination eventually.
• Research the Airport: Learn about the layout, amenities, lounges, and services available at your airport so you know where to go and what to expect.

10. Take A Guided Tour With A Local Expert

Going on a tour during your vacation can be a great way to experience a destination in a more authentic and meaningful way. A tour can provide a deeper understanding of a place’s history, culture, and customs and offer unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences that may be difficult to find on your own.

Tours are often led by local experts who can provide valuable insights and information about the places you visit. They can also introduce you to local people, customs, and traditions, giving you a more authentic and memorable travel experience.

Going on a tour can also save you time and hassle, as they often include transportation, guides, and admission fees, making your trip more efficient and hassle-free.

Additionally, tours can be a great way to meet other travelers and make new friends, especially if you’re traveling solo. They can also be a great way to discover new places and try new activities you might not have considered.

It’s important to note that there are many types of tours, from big bus tours to small group and private tours. It’s worth researching and choosing the right tour that aligns with your travel style, interests, and budget.

My go-to online tour booking platform is Viator.com . I’ve been on walking tours, mural tours, canal, and river tours, and day trips booked through Viator, and I’ve never had an issue within the US or abroad!

11. Use Public Transportation When Available

Using public transportation on vacation can be a great way to save money , avoid the stress of driving, and experience a destination like a local. Public transportation options, such as buses, subways, and trains, can be much cheaper than renting a car, taking taxis, or using a ride-share app. They can also provide a more immersive travel experience.

Additionally, many cities around the world have excellent public transportation systems that are reliable, efficient, and easy to navigate. They often offer a convenient way to get around and see the sights without needing a car, which can save you money on parking and gas.

Moreover, public transportation can also be a more environmentally friendly option, reducing your carbon footprint and supporting sustainable travel practices.

12. Relax and Practice Self-Care

Setting realistic expectations for your vacation and avoiding over-scheduling or feeling like you need to be doing something constantly. Self-care is crucial to maintaining overall well-being, and it is vital to include self-care activities during a vacation.

Self-Care Travel Tips Include:

• Packing snacks in case you have to miss a meal
• Always carry a water bottle to keep you hydrated
• Make sure that you are getting adequate sleep
• Stay active or schedule time to exercise.
• Add a few healthy meals to your diet

Taking time to rest and rejuvenate can help you return to your daily life feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

13. Use Your Out-of-Office Reply

Yes, setting an out-of-office reply is one of the essential travel tips and will ensure you can fully disconnect and enjoy your vacation. This will let anyone who contacts you via email know that you are away and when they can expect a response from you. It also can avoid the unnecessary stress and pressure of checking and responding to emails while you are away. This will help you relax and enjoy your vacation without worrying about work-related matters.

Use These Travel Tips For a Stress-Free Trip

With these travel tips, you can make your trip or vacation a hassle-free and enjoyable experience. From using a packing list and credit card rewards to using public transportation and going on a tour, these strategies can help you make the most of your time away. Remember to plan ahead, stay organized, and be open to new experiences, and you’ll be sure to have a memorable and stress-free vacation. Bon voyage!

This article Travel Tips: 10 Strategies for a Stress-Free, Enjoyable Trip originally appeared on Wander With Alex . Photo Credit: [@Rawpixel/DepositPhotos]

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alexandrea Sumuel Groves is a nationally syndicated travel writer and founder of the Wander With Alex travel blog. Her work has appeared on MSN, YAHOO!, Euronews, and FOX, ABC, and NBC affiliates across the United States. 

Alex travels to experience, eat, explore, and occasionally escape! She collaborates with destinations, vacation property management companies, and hospitality technology firms to provide her readers with exclusive insights and information.

Travel Tips: The Best 99 Travel Tips You’ll Ever Need

August 30, 2023

Traveling is something that you can only learn with experience. The more you travel, the more you experience and learn.

If you are new to traveling, you are most likely to make a whole lot of mistakes at first and that’s okay.

With time, you’ll know all the things to do and all the things to avoid when planning a trip somewhere or visiting a foreign land.

There are a ton of mistakes you can make as a first-time traveler. These include being reckless, being culturally offensive, missing buses, etc.

You have to think about traveling as you did your first time in a new school. It will take some time but eventually you will get used to how things work.

Meanwhile, here are my 99 travel tips to get you started as a traveler.

The journey might be long and bumpy so hold on tight and brace yourself;

1. Find Photogenic Places & Spots Using Instagram

2. learn common phrases of the local language, 3. read a history book about the place you are visiting, 4. get to know local customs before you go, 5. don’t be afraid to take your kids with you, 6. get vaccinated, 7. let your family and friends at home know your plans, 8. if you plan to visit someone/staying with someone, during your trip, then get them a present, 9. don’t go into debt for travel, don’t spend beyond your means, 10. research your destination, 11. be flexible and don’t over-plan, 12. book early for cheap flights, 13. use points and miles for discounts and even free travel, 14. use a vpn to potentially get a discount on flights, 15. avoid expensive hotels and accommodations, spend your money on experiences not on sleeping, 16. write down your hotel address and phone number.

• 17. Get a VPN for Travel to Protect Your Internet Connection While Abroad (I Personally Recommend ProtonVPN and NordVPN)

18. Take Cash with You and Extra Credit/debit Card

19. let your bank know you’re traveling, 20. pack light, 21. but take extra underwear and socks, 22. pack a pair of sneakers, 23. carry a first-aid kit, 24. always get a compeed for your feet – thank me later, 25. bring your normal clothes you’re comfortable in with you, 26. wear comfortable shoes you already broke into, 27. don’t bring clothes that need ironing, 28. always pack a hat and a sarong/scarf, 29. mark your luggage and write your name and contact information on them, 30. take pictures of your luggage and clothes, 31. take a photo and make copies of your passport and important documents, 32. get your phone unlocked before you leave, 33. invest in a good travel camera, 34. bring an extra camera battery, 35. bring a powerful power bank, 36. put electronics, medications, and extra clothes in your carry-on, 37. go to the airport early, 38. go to the bathroom right before boarding on a plane or taking a bus, 39. get a window seat so you can lean against the wall when you sleep, 40. get the closest seat possible from the doors on the plane, this will save a huge time going through customs, 41. stay hydrated on the plane and on the road, 42. get a water filter bottle and drink tap water whenever you can., 43. don’t change your currency at the airport, 44. track your spending, 45. don’t be afraid to pay to get your laundry done, it’s totally worth it, 46. wake up early, 47. try to exercise during your trip, 48. eat local food frequently, 49. don’t be ashamed to buy souvenirs, 50. visit famous and touristy places, 51. but don’t hesitate to get off the beaten path, 52. also, don’t eat at restaurants in touristy places, 53. wear sunscreen, 54. always have snacks with you, 55. put down your cellphone and enjoy the moment, 56. visit historical places at lunchtime, they are usually less crowded between 12:30 and 13:30, 57. go to local markets, 58. try new food, even if you think you won’t like it, 59. go on free walking tours, 60. make friends with locals, 61. make friends with other travelers, 62. break out of your comfort zone, 63. get lost on purpose, 64. do something that scares you, 65. be spontaneous. say yes to interesting opportunities and don’t stick blindly to your plans, 66. experience traveling alone from time to time, 67. go somewhere new every year, 68. if it feels wrong, it’s probably wrong. don’t take unnecessary risks, 69. abc: always be charging charge your power-bank and your devices whenever you have the chance, 70. get a local sim card with internet data for your phone, 71. always take your camera with you, always, 72. don’t forget to take epic photos of what you’re seeing, 73. take plenty of photos at sunrise and sunsets., 74. cloudy days are actually excellent for portrait photos, 75. take more photos of yourself in those places, 76. take more photos of and with locals, 77. save memories, don’t fake memories. your photos are meant to remind you of good times, not for showing off to others., 78. don’t wear your purse on one shoulder. rather, wear it around your body, 79. never carry your wallet in your back pocket., 80. be aware of pickpockets and scams, 81. use public transportation in big cities, 82. if you need a car then rent it. it’s cheaper than hiring a driver or taking taxis every time, 83. if you hired a driver, take pictures of the car, the license plate, and relevant details about the car and the driver. just in case, 84. never leave any valuables in your car, ever, 85. check if you forgot something in your hotel room before leaving, 86. don’t throw trash on the street, 87. be eco-friendly and minimize your trash, 88. also don’t buy anything made of animal parts, 89. don’t take your trip too seriously., 90. expect everything to go wrong, 91. don’t lose your temper when it does, 92. be kind with your travel partner. try to understand each other and avoid getting into an argument or a fight., 93. also, a fight doesn’t mean the end of your relationship/friendship. don’t be too proud to apologize, 94. compromise, compromise, compromise, 95. slow down to enjoy your vacation and never let yourself be in a rush, 96. keep an open mind and don’t judge other cultures, 97. don’t assume that you know more about a country or a culture than the people who actually live there, 98. be polite, smile often, and be friendly, 99. always, always, be respectful., i- travel tips before you go.

Instagram is one of the most popular social media applications you can resort to if you want to stay updated with the best places in town to visit.

Before you plan a trip to any destination, make sure to check Instagram for all the most scenic places you must visit in that particular town and city.

Each city in every country has certain must-see tourist spots, including places of worship, museums, or even landscapes full of natural beauty that you must visit. Instagram can be pretty useful as a starting point for pinning down which places you should necessarily add to your itinerary.

Visiting a new place will always be easier if you have some knowledge of the local language.

This doesn’t mean that you have to spend weeks picking up the new language. It simply means that you can take out a few hours each week before your trip to learn some common phrases in the local language that will help you when in the foreign land.

Such phrases include “I’m sorry” , “hello” , “thank you” and anything else that you feel is necessary to get you through your trip.

As an example I wrote an article that compiles the must-known phrases when visiting Japan . Check it out.

More knowledge never hurt anyone. It’s only human to be curious about a place before you visit it. For the sake of both your curiosity and for efficiency purposes, try to grab a hold of a history book about wherever you plan on visiting.

Anywhere you decide to travel will most likely have a rich history and heritage and it only makes sense to read up on some of this so that you enjoy your trip even more.

Read our guide on the best travel books to read that give intense wanderlust.

The one mistake you want to avoid as much as you can when in a new place is to be culturally insensitive or offensive in some way to the locals.

If you are unaware of their culture entirely, you are quite likely to make this mistake. This is why it makes sense to read up a little on the traditions and customs of a place before you visit so that you understand them better and don’t risk acting in an insensitive manner.

Some people are afraid of traveling with their children, especially if their children are pretty young. Although traveling with toddlers or even infants can be exhausting and even terrifying at times, this is no reason to avoid it altogether.

In fact, traveling helps increase knowledge and if a child is made to travel from a younger age, they develop cultural awareness from that tender age and this shapes them up to be informed, educated, and sensitive adults.

Some countries have strict travel policies and will not allow you to enter their land until you are properly vaccinated. The reasoning behind this is simple – they wish to prevent the spread of diseases from one country to another.

Even if it is not required of you by the country according to its travel policies, it is always a good idea to get yourself vaccinated before boarding the plane to another country. Why risk passing on some sort of infection or disease to another land when you can easily avoid it altogether?

This is perhaps the simplest of all travel tips and is understood even without mentioning. Unless, of course, you have absolutely no friends or family that you are in contact with, it’s always a good idea to inform your close relatives and friends about your travel plans.

This is important because visiting a new place is always risky, and it’s good to know that someone knows exactly where you are in case you need any help or encounter some sort of an emergency.

This shouldn’t be too hard to understand. It’s only common decency that if you plan on living with someone during your travels, or even just visiting them, you should buy them a present in advance of your trip.

It’s best to not leave this till the last minute when you will be chaotic and in a rush. Buy these presents at least two weeks before your intended date of travel to avoid any last minute anxieties.

Traveling can be pretty expensive. The actual costs that you will incur depend on where you are traveling, for how long, and whether or not you opt for any travel packages.

It is never a good idea to spend so much that you are in debt after your trip. If you can’t afford to stay in luxury hotels then don’t include them in your itinerary.

As fun as traveling can be, it won’t be much fun if you can’t afford basic necessities for months after your trip.

II- Travel Planning Tips

Before you begin packing your bags and booking your flights, it’s important to do some research on your destination. This will help you better understand the culture, customs, and norms of the place you are visiting, and ensure that you are prepared for what to expect.

Some things you might want to research include the climate and weather, local laws and regulations, the cost of living and common expenses, and any potential health or safety concerns.

This will help you plan and pack appropriately, and also give you a sense of what activities or sights you might want to see while you are there.

Traveling anywhere requires at least a certain degree of flexibility. It is a basic rule of life that everything is more fun when you don’t plan it down to every little detail.

While it is important to be organized and responsible when visiting a new place, you should always be open to spontaneity.

If things don’t go exactly as you planned, don’t be too disappointed because this will most likely ruin the rest of your trip.

Once you have made up your mind about where you are traveling, it only makes sense to book your flights as soon as you can.

You can hire a travel agent, book a package, or even plan the entire trip by yourself, but whatever you choose to do, make sure to get a head start on the process.

No point paying extra when you can get much lower prices by just being responsible enough to book the flights well in advance.

Once you become a frequent flier, you are likely to receive flying points and miles. The more points and miles you gather, the more likely you are to get a discount on your flights. Sometimes, once you have accumulated enough points, it’s even possible for you to travel completely free of cost!

Generally speaking, travel websites tend to track your IP address and the prices that they offer you are based on where you are browsing from.

Using a VPN for travel , you can hide your IP address and consequently, you might be able to benefit from lower flight prices. For example, if you were to set your IP address to a lower income country, you may be able to book a flight at a lower price.

Similarly, you may be able to set your IP address to the country from which that particular airline operates, and thereby save on flight costs.

Yes, traveling is expensive; but it doesn’t always have to be! There are countless ways you can save money during your travels using hacks such as choosing budget-friendly hotels as opposed to luxury, five-star hotels if you can’t afford it.

Remember that the whole point of traveling is to gain new experiences. If you want to sleep comfortably, you can do that in your own home. Make sure that when you do travel, spend on exploring and discovering new places, rather than on comfort.

In fact, the whole point of traveling is to step outside your comfort zone!

Before you set out for your travels, it is pertinent to do some research well in advance. You need to know exactly which hotels you will be staying at, and the smart thing to do is to write down the contact number and address of wherever you will be staying.

This information is important to keep for yourself, as well as for giving it to a close family member or friend lest they have to contact you in case of an emergency.

17. Get a VPN for Travel to Protect Your Internet Connection While Abroad (I Personally Recommend ProtonVPN and NordVPN )

A VPN protects the privacy of your internet connection when you’re away from your home country. When in a new country, it makes sense to install a VPN well in advance of your travel for the sake of internet privacy.

There are certain websites that you are accustomed to using that may even be blocked in the country you are traveling to. A VPN can make sure that you can access your favorite sites regardless of where you are.

ProtonVPN and NordVPN are two reliable VPNs you can install before your travel dates.

Remember that when traveling, it’s always good to be prepared for the worst. Anything can happen during your travels, things can go wrong and you must be prepared.

As such, always make sure to travel with your debit and credit cards, along with cash. It’s important to have both options in hand because depending on where you are traveling, one option might work while another might not.

For example, if you are in a particular city, some areas such as large malls and restaurants might accept a card while marketplaces and bazaars etc. might only accept cash.

Never make the mistake of limiting your options to only one of the two.

It’s always a good idea to inform your bank that you will be traveling and give them your travel dates. This is important because it’s possible that your ATM card or debit card might not work in a foreign country unless your bank allows it.

You might get into a very sticky situation if you somehow run out of cash sooner than you expect and your debit card refuses to work. So make sure to get these technical processes sorted out well in advance of your trip to avoid any inconveniences during the trip.

III- Packing Tips for Travel

He who travels happily must travel light. Antoine de Saint-Exupery – One of the best travel quotes out there

When going on a trip, it makes sense to pack as light as you possibly can. The more things you carry with you, the more inconvenient things are likely to be for you.

Let’s say your trip comprises of visits to a number of different cities or even countries. The fewer things you carry with yourself, the easier it will be for you to maneuver and move around.

Additionally, the fewer things you carry, the less likely you are to lose things.

It doesn’t take a genius to understand why this is so important. Remember that no matter how much you pre-plan, it isn’t possible to think of almost every possible thing that can go wrong in the trip.

You also don’t know if your plan might somewhat change along the way. For example, let’s say you decide to extend your trip by a few days.

The smart thing to do is to avoid all these problems and simply pack a few extra pairs of socks and some extra underwear.

The most important thing to keep in mind while packing is that your comfort must be your first consideration.

If you aren’t comfortable with the clothes you have packed or the things you have kept with you, your entire trip might get ruined.

You also generally have to walk a lot during trips as you go about exploring and discovering new cities and towns.

This is why it’s always a good idea to pack at least one pair of sneakers with you, wherever you go. Sneakers are comfortable, durable, and perfect for walking long distances.

Whether you are traveling alone or with a group of people, you alone are responsible for your health along the way.

It is possible for you to encounter any number of accidents or incidents on your trip. You could get a small injury like a broken nail or stubbed toe, or a bigger injury, such as a fracture.

In any case, having a first aid box with you at all times of your travel is absolutely essential.

Compeed dressings are meant to relieve you of the pain of blisters on the feet. When traveling, there are usually such large distances to cover that you can get blisters very easily.

Blisters are naturally painful and uncomfortable and can potentially make the rest of your trip not as much fun for you.

So do remember to keep some compeed with you at all times during your travels.

No matter where you are traveling to, you aren’t likely to have too great a time if you aren’t comfortable.

While fashion is important, the first rule of fashion is that you must be comfortable in what you wear. So make sure to at least bring two to three outfits that you know you are 100% comfortable in.

It’s common knowledge that new shoes can be pretty uncomfortable the first few times you wear them. This is why it’s never a good idea to take new shoes that you haven’t worn too often along with you on a trip.

It’s possible that the new shoes start to dig into your toes, or hurt the back of your heel.

Old is gold, so stick to what’s comfortable!

While it is possible for you to take a steam iron along with you on your travels, it will just be an added inconvenience.

Ironing also takes up a whole lot of time you could have spent exploring the new land you are in.

The solution is simple – simply make sure to take clothes that you know for a fact won’t require ironing.

There are certain accessories that prove to be very useful during traveling. A hat or a cap is one such accessory. Hats can protect you from the sun, particularly if you are heading out towards a tropical climate. Hats also look stylish.

A scarf can also serve multiple purposes. If you are going to a country where you are required to dress ‘modestly’, a scarf can be pretty useful. Scarves can also sometimes look very fashionable.

Similarly, if you are going to a beach location, a sarong is a necessary item to pack.

If you have ever traveled on a plane before, you will realize just why this is so important. Flights nowadays are often booked. Among so many passengers, it’s very easily to lose some or your entire luggage along the way.

This can easily be avoided. All you have to do is make sure that all pieces of your luggage have your name and proper contact information on them.

This way, even if you do lose your luggage, you can be assured that it will always make your way back to you.

This is purely a precautionary measure. Just writing your name and contact information on all pieces of your luggage sometimes isn’t enough.

It’s also a good idea to take pictures of all pieces of your luggage and clothing just in case something goes wrong.

This is one of the most important pre-travel steps you need to take.

It’s always a good idea to have copies of each of your important travel documents including your passport, your tickets, hotel bookings, and any other crucial pieces of information or documents you need to travel.

IV- Travel Tips for Packing Tech

Make sure that your phone is unlocked before you leave for any trip. You don’t want to face any complications accessing your phone when in a completely foreign land.

There is little point of traveling if you aren’t going to make a whole lot of memories and make sure that at least some of those memories are caught on camera and preserved for you to keep for years and years.

This is why it is always worth investing in a decent travel camera well in advance of your trip. The Canon G5X M2 is one camera certainly worth investing in before your travels.

Cameras usually come with batteries.

It’s possible for those batteries to run out or for something else to go wrong with those batteries.

As such, always make sure that you carry extra camera batteries with you each time you travel.

A power bank is a device that can help you charge your phone when on the go. This device is particularly useful during traveling because even if you do take your phone charger with you, a number of things could go wrong.

It’s possible that the charger begins to malfunction or that you are on some cruise or on an exotic island where there is no way for you to charge your phone.

That’s why I actually have 3 or 4 myself 😀

A carry-on bag serves many purposes during traveling. This bag is where you store all of the extra things that are very useful to you such as necessary medications, electronic items such as your laptop and laptop charger, power bank etc.

You might even want to put a few pairs of extra clothing inside your carry on, just in case you need to freshen up during the journey.

Opening the main suitcase mid journey is impossible, so all of the important things that you might need should be stored in your carry on.

V- Travel Tips While on the Road

This is perhaps the number one rule of traveling – you must get to the airport well in advance of your flight.

It’s always better to be early rather than late. So quit being lazy. On the day that you have to travel, wake up extra early, have a good breakfast, make sure all your stuff is with you and is sorted out, then head on over to the airport!

One of the most uncomfortable aspects of traveling is not having access to one’s own bathroom. Since traveling is all about stepping outside your comfort zone, you must not mind this too much.

In order to avoid having to go to the bathroom while traveling, make sure you use the bathroom right before boarding a plane, a ship, a bus, or any other vehicle where it might be difficult to use the washroom.

Although this isn’t necessary, the window seat is always a good seat to select, when on a bus or plane.

Not only is this a more comfortable seat because you can lean against the window and fall asleep, the window seat also offers the best views, especially from an airplane.

If possible, make sure to get a seat as near to the doors of the plane as you possibly can.

The nearer you are to the exit of the plane, the earlier you can exit the plane, and the sooner you can get clearance from customs.

This is particularly important if you have to take a connecting flight because you cannot afford to get late for it.

When traveling, it’s sometimes impossible to remember to drink enough water.

Always make sure that whether you are flying or on the road, you have water with you.

Traveling to another country is scary enough, especially for first timers. You don’t need the added stress of encountering any health problems when in a foreign land.

So drink as much water as you can!

It may not be possible for you to find mineral or bottled water easily when on the go.

The easiest thing to do is to simply carry around a water bottle (with an included filter) with you and fill it up with tap water wherever you may find it.

VI- Travel Tips when Arriving at Your Destination

If you are a frequent traveler, you may have realized that it is never a good idea to get your currency exchanged for the foreign currency when at the airport.

This is because the airport often tends to overcharge and give you a rate higher than what you would get from anywhere outside.

Each time you travel, you will have a fixed amount of money with you. As such, you need to spend it wisely.

Make sure you keep a track of all the money you are spending on internal commute, food etc.

Carry a small notebook in your handbag, or use a dedicated budgeting app, and make a note of each time you spend money so that you don’t go overboard or run out of cash.

Whichever hotels you choose to stay at will most likely have a laundry service. You may be unwilling to use the service because of the money you will have to pay for it.

It’s best to however pay that money and get your clothes laundered because you will be saved from a whole lot of inconvenience later.

Fresh, clean clothes are definitely a blessing, especially when you’re in a foreign land.

VII- Travel Tips During Your Trip

The whole purpose of travel is to explore and discover new places. As such, you want to make the best of your time in the foreign land.

Make sure that you plan out activities for each day of the trip in advance and during the trip, wake up bright and early each day so as not to waste any precious trip time.

Remember, you can always sleep once you’re back home!

Because traveling can be so chaotic in itself, you may forget to care about your physical and mental health. A little bit of exercise goes a long way in this regard.

You can wake up early and do some morning stretches and yoga before starting your day. Alternatively, you can even use an application to keep a track of the number of steps you walk each day. Set a target number of steps and make it your goal to meet your target each day.

There is little point visiting strange new lands if you aren’t willing to step outside your comfort zone. When in a new place, make sure to try out all the local delicacies instead of sticking with food that is readily available.

It can be tempting to buy souvenirs such as bells, magnets, decorative items, or T-Shirts when in a new place.

It’s always a good gesture to buy such things for your family and friends back home or even just for yourself so that you remember this trip for a long time to come.

As obvious as this sounds, some people visit a place and miss out on some of the most famous places to visit because they aren’t aware of them.

Do your research in advance or talk to local tour guides and make sure you visit all the must-see places when in a new place.

While touristy spots are always a delight to visit, sometimes, there are places that no one talks about or visits about are pretty charming. In fact, if you want to get an authentic vibe of the place, its best to sometimes visit places that aren’t particularly famous among tourists.

The problem with only sticking to spots and restaurants that are ‘touristy’ is that these places often tend to get pretty crowded. You also won’t get a feel of the local culture and cuisine if you only stick to restaurants specifically designed to cater to tourists.

This is particularly relevant if you are visiting a tropical region or island. The rays of the sun tend to be pretty strong in these places so make sure to apply sunscreen on all parts of your body that will be exposed to the sun.

Traveling tends to make you pretty hungry, especially when your trip involves a whole lot of adventure an if you’re constantly on the move. Because you can’t always stop at restaurants it’s best to keep some snacks with you on hand in case you get hungry.

The one mistake you should never make when on a trip is to be constantly using your phone. In fact, you should try to avoid social media as much as you can when on vacation. Put your cell phone away, talk to those around you, and enjoy each little moment to the fullest!

If you are in a town or city that is home to a number of historical landmarks that are open for tourists to visit, make sure you plan your visit around lunchtime. This is the time when these landmarks are least crowded and you can even manage to get decent photographs.

Local markets everywhere have a charm of their own. No matter where you are, make sure to visit the night markets and day markets because these can both be pretty interesting in their own ways.

Some places even have floating markets – markets built over flowing water. If you come across any of these, make sure to explore well.

There is little to no point in traveling if you’re only going to stick to what’s considered ‘safe’. Each place you visit will have certain local culinary delicacies that you should at least try out, even if you think you might not like them. Traveling is about collecting new experiences after all!

If the city or town you are visiting has the option of availing free walking tours, make sure you go for these. These walking tours generally tend to be guided and can tell you a lot about the history and culture of the place you are visiting. It’s always good to learn!

Making friends with the locals has a whole lot of advantages of its own. For starters, you can learn some of the local language. More importantly, the locals can guide you on the best places to visit in town and perhaps tell you where you can get the best local food.

It’s always a good idea to befriend those you are traveling with. Not only does this give you a certain support system when in a new land, you can also explore and discover new parts of the city with the other travelers. It’s always more fun when there are more people.

You can even get to know more about the travelers’ home county and this in itself is a learning experience.

VIII- Travel Tips to Live Unforgettable Experiences

The number one rule of traveling is that you step outside your comfort zone and are willing to have all sorts of new experiences.

During your travels, you might sometimes face situations that are entirely unfamiliar and where you may feel where you are uncomfortable and that is perfectly okay.

Strange as it sounds, sometimes, the best way to discover yourself is to get lost deliberately. When in a new, strange land, try to be as adventurous as you can, and what’s more adventurous then getting lost?

So shut your phone and aimlessly walk the streets of a foreign city until you don’t know where you are.

At home, it’s okay to stay away from the things that tend to scare you, but not while you are traveling. During your travels, make sure to do things you were otherwise too scared to do. For example, if there’s something you always wanted to try but never got around to it, make sure you go for it when you’re on your trip.

The only thing you need to ask yourself is, what’s the worst that can happen?

Life is supposed to be an adventure, more so when you are traveling. During your travels, make sure to be as spontaneous as you can.

While it’s important to plan out your activities for each day, it’s equally important to take life as it comes to you and not be too stringent if things don’t work out exactly how you plan them.

While it’s always fun to travel in groups, it’s also sometimes fun to travel by yourself. Traveling by yourself can sometimes help you gain a whole new perspective on life. It can also be enriching for your soul to travel alone.

Being by yourself and discovering new places is fulfilling in itself.

While traveling anywhere is a learning experience, the more places you discover, the more you are likely to learn. As such, make it a point to visit a whole new place each year.

The more places you travel, the more you learn about different cultures, histories and traditions, the more foods you discover and the more lifestyles you experience.

Remember that are instincts are almost always right. If you are in a new place or situation that doesn’t feel right to you, get out of those situations as soon as you possibly can. Taking risks is important but taking unnecessary risks is stupid.

Remember that if you mess up, no one can come to your rescue so far away from home. So be smart and careful whenever required.

IX- Travel Tips for Photography & Tech

You want to make sure that you don’t run out of charge in your phone or any of the other essential devices you need to carry with yourself. The easiest thing you can do is charge your phone and power bank overnight each day of the trip. You don’t want your phone to be off when you are out and about taking pictures!

This will be useful in case you need to contact friends and family back home. Remember, anything can happen when you are on a trip, far away from all that is familiar. This is also particularly important if you are traveling alone.

Furthermore, data is important even just to access GPS settings on your phone. Imagine that you are in a new place and get lost only because you cannot access maps on your phone.

Make sure that wherever you go, you carry your camera with you and that your camera is fully charged. You might not realize the importance of a camera today, but someday, years from now, when you want to look back at the memories from the trip and you have only the photographs you took, you will realize just how important a camera is.

Photographs will be the only memories of your trip for years to come. Even when you are old and wrinkly, photographs remind you of the places you have visited and the people you have seen,

So make sure that whichever photographs you do end up taking are memorable and epic!

Sunrises and sunsets are two of nature’s most incredible phenomena. Some of the best pictures you can capture are those of the sun rising and setting because this is when the sky is in stunning shades of orange and pink. So make sure to get plenty of these if and where possible!

Many people believe that only sunny day pictures turn out decent and avoid taking pictures when the sky is overcast.

Contrary to popular belief however, cloudy days actually make for excellent backgrounds for photographs, particular portrait photographs .

So next time the sky is cloudy, there is no need to shy away from pictures!

Remember, it’s not all about landscape photography. It’s also somewhat about taking pictures of yourself in whichever place you are visiting.

Years from now, you will want to remember the time you were visiting that place. So make sure to get great shots of yourself with the most popular landmarks of that city.

These are important because years from now, these will make for excellent memories. Make sure that each town or city you are visiting, you get at least a few shots of and with the locals.

Locals everywhere are different from each other. They may for example have a unique style of dressing that you want to capture, for memory’s sake.

Remember that the purpose of taking pictures on a trip is to preserve the memories from the trip, for your own sake, and no one else.

If you spend most of your trip going around taking ‘aesthetic’ or ‘Insta-worthy’ pictures then you might as well not go.

X- Travel Tips for Security & Transportation

This is a safety precaution. While traveling, as you go about exploring and discovering a new town or city, it is common that your things may get stolen or misplaced.

As a result, it’s always best to make sure that your stuff is tightly strung across your body. That way, you can keep an eye on your valuables at all times.

If you are visiting a town or city where theft or pick pocketing is common, you don’t want to risk your things getting stolen. As a result, you must take all necessary safety precautions.

Keeping your wallet in your back pocket is never a good idea because a thief may easily steal it, so avoid this as much as possible.

In some countries and cities, street crime and theft is pretty common. If you are visiting any such city, you must be sure to be as careful as you possibly can. Always be on the lookout for pick pockets and don’t trust anyone blindly when in a foreign land.

If you are visiting any of the major cities of the world such as Tokyo, Paris, London, or new York, it’s always best to stick to public means of transportation such as buses.

Public transport generally tends to be much safer than private taxi services.

If for some reason, public transportation isn’t an option for you and you would much rather travel by car, make sure you rent out a car. Renting a car is much more practical and affordable option than taking taxis all the time. Taxis can sometimes be really expensive and even unsafe in certain situations.

When in a completely new land, there aren’t a lot of people you can trust. Anything can go wrong and you always need to be on your guard. When traveling by taxi, make sure you have pictures of the driver, the car and the license plate, just in case.

While you can afford to be reckless when you’re at home surrounded by friends and family who love you, you must always be extra careful during your travels.

Never forget any of your valuables in a public place.

You most likely won’t get them back.

XI- Common Sense

It doesn’t take a genius to understand why this is so important.

It’s possible that you may not gather all your things before leaving and forget some things in the hotel room, so always double check.

You wouldn’t like it if someone came to your country or city and littered the streets. Littering is extremely disrespectful and ill-mannered so make sure to avoid it.

Each place you visit is likely to have dustbins where you can throw your trash, so follow rules and be on your best behavior.

It’s never too late to start thinking about your planet. During the course of your trip, try to minimize your trash in as many ways as you possibly can. A good start would be to carry around a single water bottle with you instead of buying plastic water bottles all the time.

Caring about animals goes hand in hand with caring about the planet.

Avoid at all cost buying anything that is made up of animal parts. Such as handbags made from crocodile leather, lined with tiger fur, or anything made from giraffe parts, for example.

Purchasing souvenirs made from animal skin to bring home with you is ill-advised, just DON’T do it.

Remember that the primary purpose of your trip is to have a ball. Stop trying to take each aspect of the trip too seriously. Let loose, have fun, and treat everything as an adventure.

If you get lost on your way back to your hotel, stay calm, enjoy the moment while it lasts. You will find your way back eventually!

It’s always best to be prepared for the worst. Remember, any number of things can go wrong during your trip, from the time you board your flight till you come back. Mishaps are simply a part of life. Take them as you come and try to enjoy the journey regardless.

When things don’t seem to be going your way, remember to stay calm. Have faith that everything will work itself out eventually.

There is no need to get wound up about things that are beyond your control and the least productive thing you can do is get angry or lash out on others when things don’t go your way.

During traveling, it’s fairly common for people to get irritable with those they are traveling with. It’s possible that the people you travel with have personality differences to you.

Don’t let this ruin your trip however. Be understanding of everyone’s wishes.

Checkout this wonderful video of the Flying The Nest channel where 4 couples share their best advice about How to travel better as a couple:

Even if you do end up having a fight or two with your travel partners, this is perfectly okay. It doesn’t have to imply the end of your friendship or relationship. It is a fight and you will get over it.

A squabble or two are common when traveling with people. Just remember to not take it to heart or let it ruin your trip, or even worse, your relationship.

The key to a successful trip is to compromise as much as you can with those you are traveling with. Remember, they may have preferences you have to take into account.

This is particularly relevant when you are traveling with your partner our with a group of friends. Each person may have a different place they may want to visit, and you may sometimes have to give up some of the places on your ‘must visit’ list for them, even when you don’t want to.

While you do have to cover a lot of places and activities during you travels, make sure to take things slow at times and enjoy yourself thoroughly.

It does make sense to plan out your itinerary well in advance, but you don’t always have to be on the move. Allow enough time for yourself to soak in each moment so that you enjoy to the fullest.

Simply running from one tourist attraction to the next isn’t always important. What’s important is to make sure to enjoy yourself, wherever you are in that moment.

A lot of tourists make the mistake of being judgemental and insensitive when visiting a new place.

If you want people to welcome you to their country, you need to be sensitive towards their culture, heritage, religion, and traditions.

Avoid doing anything that might be offensive. For example, do not visit a mosque or temple with light clothes as this may be considered disrespectful.

No one can know more about a place than its inhabitants. Be very careful to not act arrogant when visiting a new place.

Locals will consider this to be tactless and disrespectful.

Remember, you are only a tourist, not a resident. You should be open to learning new things, but always remember, you know less than them. It is their country after all!

This is a good idea regardless of where you are traveling. Always appear a friendly as you possibly can.

You must be friendly to the locals as well as to your fellow travelers. People always love to be around friendly people and the more kind and outgoing you are, the more you are likely to enjoy your trip!

This is something you must always remember, regardless of where you are traveling. Make sure you are respectful at all times during your travels. Each place you visit has a unique culture, heritage and traditions. In order to learn about these, you must first and foremost be respectful of these differences.

If someone welcomes you with open arms into their country, you don’t want them to think that you are being offensive to their history, culture or traditions.

For more articles on Travelness check out:

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Ph.D. in Geography, Travel Photographer, and Software Engineer. Been on 4 continents and loved them all.

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How to Pack Lighter, Smarter, and Faster, According to T+L Editors

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

No matter the length of the trip — be it a weekend beach getaway or a three-week Himalayan trek — you'll need to pack a bag, and you'll want to pack it right .

There's a lot to consider when determining what to bring: the type and length of your trip, your itinerary, the weather, the size of your luggage, and any weight limits imposed by your mode of transportation. And with so many factors at play, it's easy to overpack or underpack, especially if you've waited until the last minute.

Enter: the editors at Travel + Leisure , most of whom can be ready for a trip at a moment's notice. We're sharing our favorite ways to keep your clothes wrinkle-free, your cosmetics spill-proof, and your souvenirs safe, whether you're packing for a solo trip or for your entire family (kids included).

You'll learn how to best organize your carry-on luggage , how to pare down to avoid those excess baggage fees, and a few easy tricks to help you remember the little items you're most likely to forget .

With these travel packing tips, you'll be packing like a pro in no time. The only question that remains: Where will you and your impeccable packing skills be heading to next?

Pack by Outfit

"There's nothing more annoying than struggling to stuff everything back into your suitcase at the end of a trip only to realize you didn't even wear half the clothes you brought. That's why I started strictly packing by outfit — not individual item — and only letting pieces I had a plan for make the cut. I'll take a skirt only if I know I'm bringing a top and shoes that I would wear with it, and I'll think about the activities on my itinerary and what I see myself wearing while doing them. I hate checking a bag but love clothes, so being realistic and planning ahead is key." — Nina Ruggiero, Deputy Digital Editor

Lay Things Out First

"Even when I pack at the very last minute, I take time to lay everything out before any item goes into my bag. Grouping things together on my bed helps me see quickly what items don't pull their weight. A pair of pants that can only be worn with one top, or that requires shoes I wasn't already planning to pack? Back in the drawer. Seeing everything clearly before I start also helps me fit things into my bag in a logical way. For me, this means starting with my bulkiest items, then cherry-picking lightweight items to tuck into gaps around them to form a sturdy base layer to build up from." — Skye Senterfeit, Photo Editor

Have a Dedicated, Pre-packed Travel Dopp Kit

"One of the most frustrating parts of getting ready for a big trip is realizing that you can't zip up your bag until after you've brushed your teeth and packed the products you need in your toiletry bag. I keep a travel-only toiletry bag that has duplicates of everything I ever travel with ready to go in my suitcase." — Tanner Saunders, Associate Digital Editor

Choose a Soft-Sided Bag

"Packing in a soft-sided weekender or duffel gives you the flexibility (literally!) to shape your bag to what you're packing instead of the other way around. My canvas overnighter takes on a different shape depending on what I need it to hold and will squish, even when packed almost beyond its means, into spaces a hard-sided roller bag just won't go. I hope my current bag will last forever but I'm eyeing this simple weekender from Makr as its eventual replacement." — Skye Senterfeit, Photo Editor

Have a Ready-to-go Health Kit

"After going on international adventures and suffering food poisoning, sudden fever, cuts and scrapes, terrible bug bites, and other ailments — and then having to navigate a foreign pharmacy — I've learned to always pack a small medical kit. I keep a toiletry bag ready to go stocked with Band-aids, Neosporin, pain relievers, cold medicine, medicine for stomach trouble, itch relief ointment, antibiotics (you can ask your doctor for an emergency prescription before you travel), and ear plugs (life savers on long-haul flights and trains). And if you never have to use it, all the better!" — Karen Chen, Editorial Producer

Separate Jewelry With Snack Size Bags

"Buy 'snack size' plastic bags for packing necklaces. To prevent tangling, give each one its own bag and fasten the clasp." — Kathy Roberson, Copy & Research Chief

Check the Hotel Closet

"In the closet of most high-end hotel rooms, you'll find draw-string fabric bags for laundry and shoes. They're semi-disposable, but fantastic for packing. Trust me, using them to separate shoes and dirty laundry will totally transform your return-journey packing experience." — Flora Stubbs, Executive Editor

Be Prepared for Wet Swimwear

"I always pack a plastic grocery bag — or steal the shower cap from the hotel if I forget — to stash a wet bathing suit in for the return home. That way, we get to enjoy every last second on the beach." — Jacqueline Gifford, Editor-in-Chief

Use Marie Kondo's Folding Method

"All memes aside, I've been living the Konmari lifestyle for a few years now, and her folding method may be one of the biggest takeaways. Not only does the method save room in drawers at home, but the folded clothes can go quickly in a bag or suitcase for extremely fast packing. Another perk of using the Marie Kondo method is being able to see your entire wardrobe at once so you don't have to waste time digging in boxes of storage for off season clothes when taking a warm weather vacation in winter months." — Mariah Tyler, Visuals Editor

Roll, Don't Fold

"I always overpack, so rolling up my clothes so that they take up less space in my luggage is essential." — Devin Traineau, Associate Photo Editor

Keep Essentials Packed and Ready to Go

"I am a terrible packer. No matter where I am going, or for how long, or how far in advance I booked my trip, I will inevitably be up at 2 a.m. the night before, just one misplaced sneaker away from a complete meltdown. I've accepted this as an inevitability and tried to streamline the process where I can, so now, I always keep a clear toiletry bag packed with all my favorite products, so I can see at a glance what I have and add in a couple essentials (sunscreen for a lake trip, bug spray when there's hiking planned, etc.). I also keep a few plane go-to's — chargers, lip balm, eye mask, neck pillow — in my favorite travel bag, which helps me speed through the personal-item prep so I can get back to bemoaning my lack of good shoes and waffling on how many caftans and books I'll need for a four-day weekend." — Lila Battis, Senior Editor

Invest in Luggage You Love

"For most of us, no matter how organized we are or how many times we do it, packing will just never be pleasant. The best way to make it more enjoyable? Invest in luggage you look forward to using, be it for functionality or style — or, ideally, both. As professional travelers, the T+L team spends a whole lot of time packing and unpacking, so we worked with top luggage brand TravelPro on a collection we knew we'd actually love to use. I have a set (including a checked bag, hardside carry-on, and tote), and all three pieces are sturdy, spacious, and basically do the organizing for you as you pack in their various compartments. I'm always happy to take them out of my closet and prep for a trip, and I feel good deplaning and exiting the airport in a new city with them in hand." — Nina Ruggiero, Deputy Digital Editor

Create a Capsule Wardrobe

"No matter how hard I tried, I could never streamline my packing list — until I started thinking of it in terms of a capsule wardrobe with a specific color palette. I always start with a neutral (usually black or blue) and then build outfits based on the main events or activities happening during the trip. Usually it ends up consisting of two dresses, two pairs of pants, two tops, 1-2 sweaters, and a jacket. More brands, including Aday and Summersalt, are designing their lines so that everything mixes and matches easily, which makes building a functional but flexible packing list that much easier." — Sarah Bruning, Senior Editor

Wear Your Heaviest Clothes on the Plane

"As a chronic overpacker, and someone who never, ever checks a bag, weight limits are no friend of mine. That's why I always stick to the following motto when it comes to packing light: If it's heavy, wear it. Bulky jacket? Cute boots? Chunky sweater? I'll wear them all, then throw the jacket in the overhead bin, slip off my boots and into some compression socks, and usually keep the sweater on – a warm and cozy antidote for those often chilly airplane cabins." — Alisha Prakash, Senior Digital Editor

Keep Masks and Hand Sanitizer at Hand

"If you're traveling during the pandemic, you'll want to pack essentials like face coverings and hand sanitizer in your checked and carry-on luggage so you're never without. Keep them in an easy-to-access pocket so you can grab a fresh mask, wipes, or sanitizer whenever you need it." — Elizabeth Rhodes, Associate Digital Editor

Prepare for Travel Shopping

"Admittedly, packing light isn't easy for me. The only way I can get myself to not prepare for every possible scenario (and end up packing ski goggles next to swimsuits for the same trip) is by promising myself a little shopping while I'm at my destination. This helps me to pack only essentials and a couple of favorite items I know I'll wear or use. Then, I leave at least a quarter of my suitcase empty, ready to be filled with souvenirs. If I don't end up shopping, it's even more of a bonus — there's nothing better than lightweight luggage." — Kendall Cornish, Associate Digital Editor

How to Pack Delicate Clothes

"I always roll my clothes, making room for more things in my suitcase (admittedly, I'm an overpacker), especially with fabrics that tend to wrinkle or crease easily, like silk or satin. For items that are especially delicate (hello, slip dresses!), I always, always, always roll them around a piece of packing paper. I like that over tissue paper because it's sturdier and tends to hold its shape even if things in my suitcase move around." — Deanne Kaczerski, Digital Content Director

Wait to Wrap Gifts

"If you're traveling during the holidays, wait to wrap your gifts when you reach your destination. TSA may have to unwrap presents to see what's inside, so it's best to bring the packing supplies with you or opt for bags and tissue paper for easy-rewrapping." — Elizabeth Rhodes, Associate Digital Editor

Related Articles

Best Travel Tips From 21 Years Traveling the World

Written By: The Planet D

Travel Tips

Updated On: June 7, 2023

It all started with a five-week trip to Thailand in 2000. We fell in love with travel, but we’ve had our fair share of mishaps over the years. From being airlifted from the Amazon to getting lost on Swiss Rail, we made a lot of travel mistakes. So we’ve compiled this comprehensive list of our best travel tips from the things we learned over the past 21 years of traveling the world.

We’ve done everything from cycling the continent of Africa to driving a car from England to Mongolia. By traveling both independently, with groups, on guided tours, and for business to 115 countries over the past two decades, we learned a lot.

Table of Contents

Best Travel Tips for 2022

So are you ready to make the most of your travels when we can all hit the road again? Let’s get started with these top travel tips for traveling the world in 2022!

Money Travel Tips

1. Don’t Go Into Debt

This is one of the most important tips for traveling we can give you. Don’t spend beyond your means when you decide to go traveling. You’ll regret every moment of your travels if you come back home from a trip of a lifetime only to face a mountain of debt.

If you can’t afford to travel internationally yet, do some adventures in your own backyard. When Dave and I were dreaming of traveling the world, we explored a lot of our home province of Ontario, Canada. Being in nature weekends got us out of our rut and inspired us to try new things. As you explore your backyard, home, you can save money and a plan to travel the world. For us, we put away a lot of money by doing adventures close to home and within a year we were on a trip around the world.

• Read how you can save money for travel here.

2. Always Get Travel Insurance

This is seriously one of the best travel tips we can offer. Get travel insurance before you leave home. A lot of people say, “ I only need travel insurance  if I am going off the beaten path ” but they are wrong. Accidents can happen anywhere. Dave and I were on a luxury cruise a few years ago and he slipped on a set of stairs and broke his back. If we didn’t have travel insurance, we would have been stuck paying nearly $100,000 dollars for the air ambulance and hospital bills. We can say with certainty to purchase travel insurance.

• Travel Insurance During Covid-19 What You Need to Know
• How We Choose Travel Insurance To Best Suit Our Needs
• Busting 5 Common Travel Insurance Myths
• Do I Really Need Travel Medical Insurance?

3. Hire Local Guides

One of our top travel tips is to hire a local guide. By hiring local guides, you are directly supporting the local economy. It cuts out the middle man and helps local families. Plus, hiring locals will help you save money. When you book tours overseas or online, you are paying the middle man, the tour operator, and the rent for an expensive office. When you book locally, the money is going directly into that person’s pocket. Plus, it’s a great way to make new friends and immerse in local culture. They have often invited us to their homes and given us a more meaningful travel experience.

• Read Toronto Tours by Locals – An InsiderS Guide To The City
• Organized TRavel vs Independent Travel

4. Apply for a Rewards Travel Credit Card

I know we said do not go into debt, but we still feel that credit cards are key to traveling in style and boosting your travel budget. Using a good rewards credit card will help you save money for travel. Rewards add up quickly and offer a lot of perks like free travel, free upgrades, and late checkout. Plus, a lot of travel credit cards offer huge signing bonuses that you can put towards your flight to help you travel the world. So when offering travel tips to save money, we say get a car, just make sure to pay it off.

But note – We always make sure to pay off our credit card monthly and never carry a high limit. To decide on the rewards credit card that works fo you, check out this list of all the best travel credit cards in one place.

• For more tips to travel the world check out: How to Travel Around the World – The Ultimate Travel Resource

5. Debit Card and Credit Cards

Before you travel, let your bank and credit card companies know of your travel plans. If they suddenly notice a purchase overseas, they may lock your credit cards. Plus, be sure to carry a few different cards. We’ve had our debit card blocked in Cuba, eaten at an ATM in Istanbul, and our blocked in Sudan even after informing our banks about our travel plans. In Sri Lanka, we tried 3 different bank and credit cards before we could finally get money out of the ATM. It’s good to have a few different cards from different banks on hand to be prepared for all the reasons above.

6. Cash in Small Bills

We’re Canadian, but we always have a couple of hundred US dollars in small bills for tipping when we arrive at our hotel or for the ride from the airport. Whether you are traveling in Africa, the Caribbean, South America, or Europe, US dollars work everywhere. Also, it’s good to have some cash on hand at all times in case of an emergency – USD is the most widely accepted around the world.

Travel Tips – Local Tours and Discounts

7. Take Advantage of Free Walking Tours

One of our favorite travel tips to tell people about is the free walking tours you can join around the world. Whenever we get to a new city, we join a free walking tour. It’s a great way to get your bearings around town. This is one of the best travel tips that we didn’t even know until we’d been traveling around the world for a few years. But these free walking tours are awesome! Usually, the free walking tours are better than the tours you book ahead of time online. They are led by locals and you only pay what you feel is comfortable at the end of the tour. We usually suggest $10 per person.

8. Get a City Pass

When visiting any city, we recommend getting a city pass. We use them to save money by bundling attractions . If you are spending a few days in a city and want to see all the major tourist attractions, we highly recommend getting a City Pass. It gives you access to public transit and it allows you to skip the lines at major tourist sites. Our Favourite City Pass Bundles are CityPass  for USA and Canada, and Leisure Pass for Europe.

9. Choose Tours Wisely

We made a lot of these mistakes in our early years of travel and that is why we really wanted to share this very important travel tip. When choosing tours, make sure you go with a responsible company. Ask questions and don’t be afraid to turn them down if you don’t feel comfortable.

Don’t swim with dolphins in captivity, don’t ride elephants, and don’t chase wildlife. In Chiang Mai we looked for elephant sanctuaries and everyone claimed that they were one. When we asked questions we found out that they let tourists ride elephants and they weren’t really a sanctuary at all.

If you do find yourself on a tour where your guide is being unethical or having a negative impact on the environment, wildlife or culture, speak up and tell them you are not happy. Guides often think they need to pick up the turtle or chase the dolphins to make the tourists happy or get a tip.

• Meaningful Travel Tips
• Responsible Tourism

10. Respect Local Culture

When visiting a new destination one of the best travel tips we can give is to learn about the culture and customs . Before you travel, do a bit of research to look into the way the culture dresses and what the accepted behavior is in public. You’ll feel more comfortable as you blend in and you save yourself some embarassement by doing something wrong.

• Read How to Make Your Travel Meaningful

11. Give Back

Be it through volunteering, raising money, or visiting a project. You can make a difference when traveling. It can be as simple as staying at a local family-run guest house, hiring a private local guide, or shopping locally. Our favorite travel tip is to tell people to get involved. It truly adds more meaning to your trips and makes you feel better about yourself. We once taught English for a day in Cambodia. It wasn’t planned, but a local teacher asked us if we wanted to visit their class so the kids could practice. We’ll never forget what an uplifting experience what was.

Insider Travel Tips from The Experts

12. take lots of photos of yourself.

Dave and I were always embarrassed to ask others to take photos of us. And now we have very few of us together. Ask other tourists to take photos of yourself in front of those iconic sites around the world. And make sure it is more than just a selfie! We started doing selfies and find that they all end up looking the same. Get those epic shots and start making memories. And then print some of them out. Don’t just leave them on your phone or computer, make prints to display when you get back home to remind you of those amazing travel memories.

13. Splurge Every Once in a While

Even if you are on the tightest of budgets, it’s important to splurge on the finer things in life when traveling the world. We’ve done a lot of backpacking on a very small budget, but every few weeks we take a break from cheap hotels. Sometimes when we arrive in a city after a grueling adventure, we book a luxury hotel to recharge and keep the fun, excitement and romance alive. In particular, if you are traveling in Southeast Asia, a luxury hotel can be quite cheap!

14. Step out of Your Comfort Zone

Travel is your time to do something spontaneous that you’d never dream of doing at home. Whenever we’ve stepped out of our comfort zone, new and exciting things happened in our lives too. It just takes a small step to make a great change. Travel that can inspire you to take on new hobbies and see your life through different eyes. So go for it! Read: How to Face Your Fears to get started.

15. Don’t Compete with Other Travellers

You know who they are. The travel snobs who have to brag about where they’ve been, what they’ve done, and who they did it with. Who cares? Travel is for you! Don’t let anyone pressure you into trying something you don’t want to, or making you feel bad about where you’ve been or what you’ve done. To those who try to one-up your experiences, forget about them. The great thing about traveling the world, is you don’t have to see them ever again if you don’t want to.

16. A Smile Goes a Long Way

A smile breaks the ice when you first meet people and it helps a lot in tough situations. Smiling can ease an uncomfortable moment and it breaks the tension with the people you meet along the way. When you get off off the beaten path, a smile is often the only thing you will have in common when communicating.

Even when negotiating at the market, we smile. We find we can get a better deal if we smile. We find that locals approach us more if we smile. We get better service if we smile, and we make new friends when we smile.

17. You Don’t have to Be Fluent in a Second Language

A lot of people ask us if we speak other languages. We really don’t! So don’t let the fact that you don’t speak thr language stop you from traveling the world. In today’s world with Google Translate and countless other language apps, you can get by with ease. But we do recommend learning a few keywords and phrases of the local language. If you can say “hello”, “thank you”, “how are you”, and other simple phrases, people will respect you for trying to learn their language and making the effort. A little bit goes a long way!

• Check out our favourite travel apps besides Google Translate: The Best Travel Apps That Travelers Should Download Today

18. Sunrise is Better than Sunset (Most of the Time) 

Getting out early for sunrise is a chore, I know. But most of our best photographs and memorable quiet travel moments have happened at sunrise. If there is one travel tip we can offer, it is to set the alarm and get up before dawn. When you go to an iconic view or landmark at sunset it is often overrun with tourists. But at sunrise, you usually have the place to yourself. In the morning, nobody is around. We love walking on the beach or through city streets while having it all to ourselves.

19. Make a Plan – But Don’t Over Plan

Travel costs a lot of money, so it’s good to have a plan before you fly. But don’t over plan. We usually make a plan for the first two or three nights of our travels and then play it by ear from there. We book a hotel for the first two nights which gives us time to decide if we like where we are or if we want to move on. We also make a point of joining a tour to see the top tourist attractions at our destination but after seeing the bucket list items our plans can go right out the window. Some of our most exciting travel moments have been when we got a hot tip and changed our plans.

20. Be Flexible

This brings us to, be open to changing plans. It’s good to plan your route around the world but it is also important to stay open to new possibilities. We’ve changed plans after travellers recommended we join them and fly to Borneo to  climb Mount Kinabalu . It was the best decision we ever made. Once while sitting on an island in Malaysia and met people heading to KL to see Thaipusam. We didn’t even know what Thaipusam was, but we went with them and experienced the most amazing and shocking festival on earth.

If we decided to stick to our plans and keep a rigid schedule, we never would have had those amazing moments that we have never forgotten.

21. Buy Souvenirs and Use the Post Office

We know a lot of people who say they don’t buy anything from anywhere when they travel because they don’t have space in their luggage. But we love going to local markets and buying souvenirs. We just send it home! We can still pack light and buy a lot. Plus going to post offices in other countries can be an adventure. I’ll never forget having to use the correct color of yarn when sending a package home from a post office in Malaysia. And now that we are home, we have memories. Every time I look at my drum from Bali or Digeridoo from Australia, I am reminded of my travels.

20. Don’t Be Afraid of Street Food

Don’t be afraid of eating street food. It is often the freshest and most authentic. Here’s a hot travel tip: If food is cooked over a flame, deep-fried or boiled, it is safe to eat. Just make sure the person behind the counter, doesn’t touch it with their bare hands after cooking. When looking for local food, we just walk around looking for vendors surrounded by locals. We avoid the overpriced tourist traps and instead join the regular patrons at their local hot spot.

Travel Tips for Safety

21. Follow Your Instincts

If that rickshaw or taxi ride seems so cheap that it is too good to be true, it probably is! An important travel tip to remember is to follow your gut. We have visited many local families during our travels. We’ve been invited to dinner and inside tea at many houses and almost always accept the invitations. Usually, people are wonderful and welcoming. Read more: Travel Safety Tips – How to Have a Safe Vacation

But we’ve turned down a lot of invitations too. The invitations that feel shady probably are. If we have second thoughts, we listen to that gut feeling. Whenever we have gone against our gut feelings, things have gone wrong.

22. Don’t Let Your Guard Down

When we have been scammed out of our money, experienced a dicey situation, or when we’ve been robbed, we can look back and see the mistakes we made by not following our instincts. A lot of travel mistakes happen when people let their guards down. You have to be as smart when traveling the world as you are at home. Don’t party until the wee hours of the morning and go home alone, don’t walk down dark deserted alleyways alone, and don’t get into cars with strangers.

23. Don’t Put Yourself at Risk – Be Smart

Dave and I have taken on a lot of epic adventures in our lives and more importantly, we hired professionals to help us out when we needed it. WE see a lot of people doing stupid things for the “gram” or to share on social. Don’t climb towers just to show off and don’t do adventures that your qualified to handle. We weren’t qualified to do a lot of our epic adventures independently. If we hiked the Arctic Watershed alone, we definitely would have died. But with expert guides, were learned new skills and accomplished life-changing challenges around the world in a safe and fun way.

24. Cover-Up and Wear Sunscreen

I’m not saying you have to slather yourself in sunscreen all day every day but I do suggest that you wear sunscreen. Skin cancer is a very real thing. However, I find that wearing lightweight long-sleeved clothing and a hat works really well. I cover up most of my body and then wear sunscreen on my nose, ears and neck. Trust me, your older self will thank me. Read more: Top 10 Tips for Healthy Travel

25. Vaccinations and Disease

Before leaving to travel the world, go to a travel doctor or travel clinic to learn what vaccinations you need for each specific destination. Do this at least 6 months in advance as some vaccinations require more than one shot. The doctor will also fill some travel-specific prescriptions like Malaria and antibiotics.

Mosquitoes carry many diseases like Malaria and Zika. So just like we said above about covering up, wearing breathable, long-sleeved clothing will protect you from insect bites. Insects hate light colours, so wear light coloured clothes. You can even buy insect repellent clothing to help reduce the risk of mosquito bites.

Travel tips for Packing

26. Pack Light

The best travel tip we can possibly give you is to pack light. We know what it’s like to overpack and it’s awful. We once carried dive gear through Central America and it ruined our travels. You don’t need a new outfit for every day of the week. You aren’t going to see the same people all the time and nobody is going to notice if you have the same T-shirt on as the other day. Pack lightweight clothing that is easy to wash.

• Check out our packing traveler tips:  the Ultimate Packing List

27. Choose the Right Backpack

So when packing for your travels around the world, buy a backpack that is easy to lug around. Don’t make the mistake we made up buying the biggest and best. If you choose a smaller backpack, you won’t be able to carry more than you need. Trust me, if you have the space, you will fill it. Read: Ultimate Pre-Travel Checklist

28. Carryon Care Package for the Plane

If you have to check a bag, it is important to have important items with you in case your luggage is lost. We check our bags because we carry computers and cameras in our carryon and don’t have a lot of space for clothing. But we do put in essentials for flying and to last a couple of days if we need it. We pack a change of clothes and underwear, plus carryon size toiletries and personal items. Our airplane care package includes

• Noise-canceling earbuds (Deb) headphones (Dave) – personal preference
• Eye mask and ear plugs
• Gravol, Advil Cold and Sinus (I get stuffy on the plane)
• Tiger balm – to mask bad odors, but not too overpowering for others around us
• Shawl or sweater
• Read: Air Travel Made Easy

29. Always Pack a Sarong

Make sure to always pack a sarong I never leave on my travels without one . A sarong can be used as a headscarf in the Middle East and used it to cover up when entering temples in Asia. It works as a beach blanket, a towel when snorkeling, and a sunshade on a boat ride and to keep warm on an overly air-conditioned bus ride or flight. I’ve even dressed up an outfit for dinner by wrapping a decorative sarong around my waist.

• Check out the many uses of the Simple Sarong

30. Pack a Water Bottle and a SteriPen

Save the world don’t buy bottled water! We have really cut down on buying bottled water over the years and instead carry a water bottle that we refill daily. When going to places where water isn’t potable, we use our SteriPen to purify it. We purify water anywhere in the world – we’ve even used it in the rivers of Kazakhstan! It purifies water using ultraviolet light in 30 seconds and it’s lightweight too! We also prefer to pack a collapsible water bottle for optimal space.

31. Carry Portable Chargers

Always pack a portable charger. I can’t tell you how many times we’ve been in the middle of a great day and our batteries went dead. There is no excuse anymore. Most of our Sony products charge by USB and our portable charger has 4 USB charges in it. Now we never miss a shot! The VPower 23000mAH power charger is a good choice.

• Check out more The Best Travel Gear – Unique Ideas for Smart Packing

32. Do an Idiot Check

Dave and I used the term “idiot check” whenever we leave our hotel room or restaurant. Even if we think we have everything packed up, we usually find something we left behind. That’s why before leaving a hotel, we always do a final sweep. And we call that an idiot check. We check the beds, outlets, under chairs, and behind doors.

33. Always Make the Bed

This may seem like a weird travel tip, especially under the subheading “packing tips” But before leaving a hotel, I always make the bed. It sounds ridiculous, but I cannot tell you how many items I have found in the covers. I never would have noticed had I not made the bed. It is amazing how many things slip under the sheets when we unpack in our hotel room. So before I leave any hotel room, I make the bed.

Travel Tips for Couples and Groups

34. a fight doesn’t mean the end of your relationship (or friendship).

Traveling with your best friend or the one you love can be a very intense experience. You are stuck with each other 24 hours a day. Emotions run high and you are definitely not in your usual comfortable environment. This situation causes stress on people. Dave and I have had some doozy arguments. I’m talking yelling matches with each other. But we understand that sometimes you just have to let off a little steam. Don’t be too proud to apologize and don’t hold a grudge. Arguments happen, but it doesn’ have to ruin a friendship.

35. Don’t Get Hangry

Some of our biggest arguments happen while trying to find a place to eat when we are “HANGRy”. (angry + hungry). We have talked to so many people who have travelled the world who agree, that Hanger is usually their biggest cause of fights. Start planning for lunch or dinner before you are hungry. Or carry some snacks with your for your day out sightseeing so you don’t get to the point of being Hangry.

36. Tell your Companion How Much You Appreciate Them

Travel can be all-consuming. It’s easy to forget about the person you are traveling with and become self-absorbed. Be it your spouse or friend, it’s important to let them know how much they mean to you. You chose to travel with them because you love them or enjoy their company. We never take that for granted and let each other know how much we appreciate their support. Even the little things.

37. Compromise

As a travel couple, this is our number one travel tip. Travel can’t be about one person dictating where to go and what to do. Dave and I like spending time together but we don’t necessarily like the same things. But we do compromise. We give a little, and we each try things that the other person likes. And you know what? We often find out that we like it! Everyone is different, so we try to respect each other’s opinions and boundaries. If you are a morning person and the person you are traveling isn’t, give them their space until they are ready to chat. Don’t expect everyone to conform to the way ou live your life.

Budget Travel Tips

38. skip hotels if on a budget.

We found the best way to save money was to rent an apartment with a kitchen. Even if it is a bit more money than a hotel, we save so much on food. Eating out is one of the biggest expenses of travel. So if you can eat a few meals at home, it’s worth it. What we like about staying in apartments as opposed to hotels is that we can cook at home and save on eating out. VRBO  is an excellent way to save on accommodation. It’s an alternative to hotels allowing you to save money and to experience your travels like a local. Trip Advisor  and  Booking.com  now offer apartment rental choices.

39. Don’t Eat Out Every Meal

When traveling, meals can add up quickly, so if you can eat breakfast and cook a few gourmet dinners in your apartment rental, you can save a lot of money. It’s also a lot of fun shopping at the local markets. We often have breakfast in our flat and then have a picnic for lunch. We then make a huge and cheap meal in our kitchen, complete with wine and appetizers. We can then go out at night for snacks and cocktails in a local restaurant or bar without breaking the bank.

• Check out  VRBO  for accommodation

40. Try the Local Food

Trying the local food is one of the greatest travel experiences when in a foreign country. We love eating with our hands in India and Morocco. We love spooning our food in Thailand and picking up rice with chopsticks in Asia. Plus when you eat local, you save money. Restaurant hotels and eateries in tourist zones are more expensive. When you go to a local eatery, you’ll save a lot of money on a more authentic meal.

Some of our best experiences have been trying local food like a Sichuan Hot Pot in China that made our tongues go numb, or a three-hour meal in Japan serving 20 courses of beautifully designed dishes. Look for places filled with locals and head inside. Don’t be afraid to ask for help for what is good on the menu.

41. Get off the Beaten Path

It is amazing to see the top sites like the Eiffel Tower of Paris or the Taj Mahal of India, but some of the most memorable experiences we’ve ever had are when we are in remote destinations. Plus when you travel off the beaten path, it is less expensive.

When you go away from the tourist traps, you not only leave the crowds behind, you also leave the tourist prices behind. Going to places like Kyrgystan or Mongolia is much cheaper than a popular tourist destination because they haven’t inflated their prices yet!

42. Feel Free to Wander

Make it a priority to immerse in the local culture. Don’t take a tour that simply drives through a neighborhood and keeps you behind the glass as you gawk at the people on the street. Get outside, go for a walk and get lost in the markets. Talk to people and ask them about their lives. We’ve made lasting friendships this way. 

The best travel tip I can give you is if you are visiting popular tourist destinations, let yourself wander and get lost in the back streets of Venice or wander through the streets of Paris at night. Even the most popular tourist destinations have quiet places to visit. But don’t get lost to the point of putting yourself in danger.

Airport Travel Tips

43. Get a Priority Pass

Most Travel Rewards Credit Cards come with lounge access at your home airport, but they don’t cover other airports. Priority Pass has been a savior for us. With Priority Pass, we have access to more than 600 lounges around the world and it makes flying so much more fun. Lounges have free food and drinks, free wifi and quiet places to relax. We can sleep during layovers and have a shower after a long flight. Sign up for Priority Pass here.

We use American Express Platinum and Priority Pass Comes with it, but if you don’t have a credit card with Priority Pass, you can also purchase it separately. Check out Priority Pass for details.

43. Get a Credit Card that Lets you Skip the Security Line

In our home airport of Toronto Pearson, anyone with a specific American Express Card can skip the security lines and go into priority boarding. Look into your local airport and see what they offer. We have been in airports around the world and see that certain cards like Visa, En Route or American Express get priority security access.

44. Look for Business travelers at the security line

When lining up at security, never get behind families, they are always slow. Instead, go to the line filled with business travelers. Even if it’s a bit longer, it will move faster because everyone knows what they are doing and get through quickly.

45. Pack Liquids in clear ziplock bags

Keep everything simple while in line and have all your liquids prepacked and easy to access in a ziplock bag. I put it at the top of my carryon and pull out my computer, and bag of liquids in one swoop. If you can start your travel off on the right foot, it sets the tone for a relaxing and fun vacation

46. How to Book Cheap Flights

There are many travel websites for booking flights and accommodation. We like Skyscanner for finding the best deals on cheap flights. It offers price comparison and you can maximize searches by having flexible flying dates. 

If you search a few days before and after your preferred flying dates, you may save hundreds of dollars. Having flexible dates is a great way to save money on flights.

• Read more tips on saving money on flights here: 10 Best Travel Hacks for Flying

For day tours and city tours we use  Get Your Guide  or  Viator . These companies offer affordable day tours and city guides around the world that can be easily canceled with 24 hours notice. They can also be booked last minute.

Final Thoughts – More of the Best Travel Tips

47. Put Down the Cell Phone

It may seem easy, but this is one of those travel tips that people need to be reminded of. A photo is nice to have, but it’s how you feel in the moment that you will remember forever. Today’s world is noisy. Travel gives you the opportunity to block out the noise, so put down your smartphone and be present instead. When Dave and I look back on the past 20 years, we don’t remember how many likes a photo got on Instagram or how many views on TikTok, we remember the experiences we had.

48. Have an Open Mind

Many people have preconceived notions about a place before they go. Especially when traveling internationally. The beauty of travel is that you learn and understand different cultures and religions. People are often the same as you and me. They laugh, they cry, they care about their families. You’ll find that you have more in common with people around the world than you thought.

49. Back up your Photos

We’ve seen more than one person lose all their photos on a trip by never downloading them onto a hard drive or into the cloud. One mistake, and all your memories are erased. Back photos up even while you are still traveling. Don’t just keep using the same memory card, YOu are taking a huge chance. You can  carry a portable hard drive , upload them to the cloud, or other online storage, put them on your computer or store them on  Smugmug .

50. Relax – Things Will Go Wrong

And finally, relax and take a breath. Things will inevitably go wrong but we’ve seen way too many people fly off the handle. We have seen people complain while on tours, argue at check-in, and grumble over meals for absolutely no reason. Instead, be in the moment and take it all in.

Travel can be frustrating and overwhelming, but we’ve learned (over time) to take a breath and step back for a moment.

51. Remember Travel is a Privilege

Travel is a privilege and oftentimes the people we end up complaining to or shouting at have very little authority. They also usually have very little at home. You are lucky to be able to travel. Not everyone in the world is so lucky. The people serving you on your travels are working hard to get by and feed their families. As they are being yelled at they are probably wondering, “Why on earth are we so upset about something so small?” As travelers, we are the lucky ones and the more we remember that, the easier our travels become.

And that ladies and gentlemen, is a list of our best travel tips from 21 years on the road. Nobody is perfect at traveling and the only way to get better is to keep doing it. After 21 years, we’re still learning new tricks!

We’d love to hear your words of wisdom too. Do you have some good tips on travel to share? Tell us below.

Read more Travel Tips

• How to Travel the World – The Ultimate Travel Resource
• 21 Ways to Get Paid to Travel
• 10 Proven Tips – How to Bargain While Traveling
• Thailand Travel Tips – Things to Know Before You Go
• Travel Resources

There are some affiliate programs in the post above, but these are all products we highly recommend. We make a commission should you click on any of the affiliate links at no extra cost to you.

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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180 thoughts on “Best Travel Tips From 21 Years Traveling the World”

Amazing travel advice from The Planet D’s 21 years of world travel! Lessons learned: Avoid debt, purchase travel insurance, work with local tour guides, and carry modest bills.

Thank you soo much for sharing such a wonderful article on travel tips and tricks.

Agree with everything, except your assertion that US dollars are fine everywhere. Not in the UK. Croatia was also a problem. They wouldn’t accept Euros or USD in 2019, although they’re now (2023) a Eurozone country. Norway wasn’t too keen on them this year (2023).

In general, for touristy activities they’re a maybe – tour guides (etc) collect enough for it to be worth their while to exchange them. Everyday places, shops, bars, restaurants? Not so much in many G20 countries I’ve visited.

Very helpful, thanks for the tips

Those are some helpful tips.

Fabulous information! Fabulous site!

Safe travels everyone! Keep up the fantastic BLOG D&D!

Great resource for travel tips! I especially love the emphasis on being prepared and planning ahead for a smooth trip. Thanks for sharing this informative post.

Awesome post! Thanks for sharing such a great stuff with full of knowledge and keep up the good work.

“Remember Travel Is A Privilege. You are definitely correct. I’ve been traveling with hesitation because of these tips I would love to travel more. Thank you!

I’m a freelance photographer and I do travel a lot to different countries..exploring new adventures, people and places is always fun. That is really nice content. Keep updating 🙂

Your article is very helpful. Thank you for sharing your travel tips.

Tips for any traveler that are really thorough. In my travels, Thanks for sharing.

You are such a natural storyteller. I just love your writing.

Why I Travel Alone!

Some people shy away from traveling alone, a few embrace it. This article looks at the decided advantages of going it alone. First, traveling solo is the ultimate freedom. The itinerary you set and all the decisions you make are your creations without concern or acquiescence to any other person or group. In other words, no compromises. No arguments, no second-guessing! Traveling alone is a confidence builder as well. When I was young, at the tender age of 16 I traveled alone to work in Biddeford-Saco, Maine. I was over a hundred miles from home and family for the first time in my life. I was just a snipe of a boy and yet I was never terrified. Only a bit lonely. In retrospect, I realize the great value of that small journey (though a big one at the time) for a new found confidence was born in me. This always happens with travel by oneself. You learn you can solve problems, get over the blues, and find hidden treasures all by yourself. Have you noticed that when you’re on your own as a Traveling Pauper, people are more willing to start a conversation with you? You may feel like taking the initiative as well. Up pops an invitation for a meal, a side trip, a stay at someone’s home. For some odd reason people keep a slight distance from couples and groups for they seem so self-contained in their association. Whereas the single Pauper looks ready about for a fellow human being that he might engage at any moment in pleasant conversation and simple exhanges about his travels. Thomas Jefferson once said: “One travels more usefully when alone because he reflects more.” It’s true: you have abundant time for contemplating, even vegetating, or anything you want. A day long visit to one museum? No problem. You don’t have to deal with someone else’s mood swings, —nor they with yours. Here are two more exciting reasons that solo travel appeals to me: I find you learn language faster when you don’t have someone else talking to you in your own all the time. It’s funny, but we interact, are FORCED to interact much more frequently when we travel alone in a country that doesn’t speak our native tongue. And finally, romance. I won’t get into specifics, (this is such a tender and private sort of thing) but when you’re on your own you’re free to meet someone who might turn out to be very important in your life. The most important factor to consider in your decision to make a trip alone is your own sense of independence. If you find that you have little tolerance for the idiosyncracies of others (and I confess this is my problem) you might be happier traveling alone. But what if you have an eager spouse, relative, or friend that would feel somehow diminisehd by your decision to take off by yourself? Not to sound indelicate but, that my friend, is your problem. You’ll simply have to open up these relationships in your life and solidly communicate the value of traveling alone. I pray your loved ones will be open and understanding enough to allow your wish to become reality. I have a whole section in my book: ‘Travel Cheap Travel Well!”- Confessions Of A Traveling Pauper on this issue of solo travel, as well as the many vagaries and benefits of traveling with a partner or a group. But in this article, I hope I’ve at least opened the door, shown you the great benefits of leaving everyone behind as you discover the world INSIDE and outside of yourself. Why not plan such a trip this year? Tell everyone of your decision or keep it to yourself and, with no explanation given, leave with great joy in your heart for the adventure to come. It’s your choice! As for this Pauper, I’ve done both and found each a liberating experience each time. In such action I’ve rediscovered that little boy that traipsed off to far away Maine on his own without permission asked or granted. I rebel still at conformity and the restriction of others upon me. So, I challenge you to answer your own inner traveling pauper, to pick up your courage and let your heart lead the way to a new adventure and landscape. Be it near or far—go it alone!

It’s impressively written about travel tips. and a nice picture collection, Thanks for the post it is helpful.

Such an impressive article! Thanks for sharing your 21 years of traveling experiences.

absolutely amazing, thanks for sharing this.

Wonderful travel tips, very practical and helpful to the travelers!

OMG!! I am starting a life as a freelance-globe-trotter and this article is a jewel! Thank you so much for sharing your experience.

An amazing post with great tips as always. Anyone will find your post useful. Keep up the good work.

Such a nice travel tips, Its very informative and practical. Thanks for sharing!

This article is probably the best travel advice I’ve ever read. You have mentioned all the necessary things comprehensively. This is so impressive. Keep it up, and thank you so much for sharing this informative article with us.

As have not travel yet, but ultimately is planning. The tips posted here is very informative. It help to no experience traveler to have an insight of what is to experience and the preparation as well as expectation in the travel world. To the contributor, continue the wisdom of writing and sharing your experiences in traveling. This is a legacy you can share with all us for us to make ourself be ready and prepare the journey.

Maraming Salamat means thank you very much from the philippines. .

wow nice site, and u guys been to 115 countries.. wow!! wish i had such an opportunity. anyways best of luck guys

Being new to travelling I found each and every tip to be very useful and, these guys shared some of the most genuine and helpful tips that should be kept in mind before planning any trip. Kudos, for the nice work guys.

Probably the best travel tips I’ve read since! Keep it up!

Impressive travel tips! Taken down notes from this article. Thanks!

Carrying a portable charger is such a goodie! The amount of times a portable charger has saved me at busy airports with no free charging ports is worth every penny. Great article

Hello, Thanks for providing such nice tips for traveling. I love traveling in hilly areas. Mostly, there can be unexpected situations during travel, so, these tips are very useful and I endorse them. Everyone who is planning to travel should read these tips. Thanks again 🙂

I love Travel all over the world. I find your blog is very resourceful for me. Thanks!

Congrats Dave and Debra! Lucky you guys got an opportunity to travel to 115 Countries. Wow! that’s amazing I am feeling so jealous of you guys. This is my dream and I am just waiting for that time to come when I can do the same as you guys are doing 🙂 I really loved and enjoyed going through your article. Thanks for the great article with your audience

this is the site I was looking for. It helps me to find the best travel tips. For a beginner who wants to travel but don’t have the knowledge, for them this is the best site ever.

Hey! I’m at work browsing your blog from my new iphone! Just wanted to say I love reading through your blog and look forward to all your posts! Keep up the great work!

Useful travel tips. Really great to know that you have more then 4/5 years traveling experience. I learned so much from your article. Thanks for sharing 🙂

I want to visit the whole world with friends…and want to do lot of adventure activities there. Thanks for your tips it’s motivate me .

The best tip that I could relate to was that if it doesn’t feel okay it isn’t. Gut instinct plays a very important role especially when you are traveling solo. I personally have experienced it when I tried to give somebody the benefit of the doubt and it didn’t work out well. The first instinct is always always right. The other thing I’m learning is to not do an activity too many in a very short span of time. Because of this fear of missing out, I tend to go from one thing to another with such accuracy that it scares me sometimes. But then it also feels good to have seen many things. Still fighting that urge and learning to just relax in a place.

I find it so interesting that you guys have been able to travel the world for over 20 years now. Some of these tips are useful and my boyfriend and I will be using them.

We are set to start traveling full-time June 5th.

Amazing tips !! I love traveling and I travel thrice a year. This blog post is really helpful for travelers like me. Traveling is the best way to explore yourself. I have added this post to my bookmark list as it is quite impressive. Thank you for sharing such an incredible & informative post.

Hi, Dave and Deb when I am thinking about traveling the world relented tips at the 1st I was thing about your blog. This blog is so informative and helpful for us. Once again thanks for the great tips.

What a great list and tips! Thanks a lot! You guys are definitely a big inspiration for us! Will make sure to re-read this article again and again!

Really comprehensive tips for any traveler. I’ve made use of some of them in my travels too. Thanks!

Hey Dave, it’s really nice travel tips, thanks for sharing.

Love how it was simple to understand, and comprehend I was looking for travelling options I found this website that offers great services, maybe you can see them and tell me what’s the best option.

Great tips! I absolutely enjoyed reading! Thanks for the article

this is real tips from the expert. different from other travelers.

thank you for sharing the tip and i gain a lot info from this anticle

Such a comprehensive list of tips. Great work. Love your article.

Some remarkable photos. Incredible colours.

Thank you for all the wonderful information, this may be the most information for us novice travel bloggers that I’ve come across to in one place!

Very good blog! Do you have any tips for aspiring writers?

I’m hoping to start my own website soon but I’m a little lost on everything. Would you propose starting with a free platform like WordPress or go for a paid option? There are so many options out there that I’m totally overwhelmed .. Any recommendations? Thanks!

‘Do An Idiot Check’ this is the most useful tips for any traveler. Even a single minor thing has a huge importance while you travel in wild. I always prepare the list of things I need to pack and mark them while I put them in bag.

Wow, Great tips on travel. It helps every traveler on planning their trips.

Thanks. This is kind of article which I was expecting from a travel website. Backup your photo should be top on the list 🙂 🙂

Aw, this was an incredibly nice post. Taking the time and actual effort to make a top notch article… but what can I say… I hesitate a lot and never manage to get anything done.

Thanks for sharing these amazing tips. This is very useful for planning a trip.

I want to become a travel blogger but how could i earn money in it

Nice Information, I really love to travel. I want to start my career as a travel blogger

Wonderful Article tips… Really helpful for traveler like us.. keep coming.. 🙂

I love traveling especially with my family and I would like to say thank you for giving such a piece of incredible information.

It really nice to me to get experience before to start the trip. Thank you very much! Have a nice day!

Dave, Deb this is amazing. Backing up photos is crucial!

I am a big fan of traveling. Trekking, hiking, and reading books about traveling really give me a great time. I am especially interested in cultures and customs of ethnic minority groups in China.

I love taking photos while embarking on adventurous journeys so this is why you should backup your photos. I used to be backpacker and explorer of the world and loosing precious pictures before writing a blog about where you have been was very bad. Its like you have never been there.

Now i currently work as a Travel Adviser.

Keep up with the good work!

Dave and Deb, my girlfriend and i we love your life style. You guys really inspire us. Thanks to you we have been traveling asia for 6 months. To be honest i was thinking its really bad idea to travel with your GF but after all experiences, this is the best way for traveling. Thanks for the whole site and this valuable tips.

All these tips are great, but I truly appreciate the perspective blog thanks for share this post…….

A brilliant list of very useful travel tips, thank you for sharing guys they’ll definitely come in handy!

Wow thanks for the share. All of the tips derive to make it about the trip, don’t get destructed or even lose focus, just enjoy any time.However, if you really need to enjoy your trip, to me ensure you prepare right and ensure there’s nothing left behind such that you don’t get disorganized.

Nice tips when we travelling !

Thanks for writing such a useful list!

I love love love this! I have been traveling for 4 years and am now trying to turn travel into a business. I fully agree that people need first to enjoy traveling for the experience versus trying to become the next influencer. Your first bullet point about putting down your phone is spot on. I have lost my phone twice while traveling, and I appreciate these times. Instead of being reliant on Google Maps I have to walk up to strangers and ask for directions. Instead of being busy trying to take a photo, I’m fully living in the moment. I also love your point about smiling! Good vibes and energy go a long way.

Great post, keep up the good work.

Hi There! Appreciate it. Thank you for sharing fabulous information which seems to be to incredible post.

Great tips! I especially like tips 5 and 6. We often do the mistake of travel insurance and a local guide is very important while traveling a new country. I hope all traveler like us should follow these amazing tips while traveling a new country.

You are one of the best travel blogger I’ve ever seen your writing style is too good thanks for the sharing.

I look forward to being in Florida and Santa Barbara, California in the near future when I start traveling again. The “side hustle millionaire” mindset has me so focused right now that I can’t do any traveling for the moment. One thing I do love about traveling to different places is expanding my mind and seeing the beauty of unfamiliar environments. 🙂

I love travelling and I make 2 family overseas trips a year. I thank you for giving incredible advise on every single details of travelling. Despite my own travel experience I have learned so much from your article. The most useful is first one (to make travelling top priority ) . I have 2 kids, and my next trip will be very much different with your great tips.

Thanks for your tips, I just love your story about how down to earth you are.

Thank you for sharing your experiences, my point of view leaving our comfort zone can bring us an amazing trip without a doubt.

These are really awesome and pics are also helpful for me. Even there are many things which are missed by me and other i think. Many tips are helpful for me and honestly I like your ways.

Thanks & Regards Ritika Kumari

This is all such great advice — thanks for sharing! My partner and I have been traveling full time for the past couple years, and we’ve found ourselves falling into these mistakes every now and again. We always take the time to reflect on each trip to pick out ways we can make our experience better (and the experience of people around us). You’re right about traveling with someone requiring compromise, and your advice to just relax every now and then couldn’t be better! Always being “on” can so easily prevent you from truly experiencing something. Thanks for this great post!

All your tips are great! I would add to the “battery discharging” tips – Buy a solar power bank charger. It recharges itself by daylight. I found it VERY helpful on several occasions. Thanks for sharing with us.

Article with sensational travel tips. That’s why I follow your blog and recommend it to several friends, congratulations.

Cheers, Dave and Deb. You got really lucky in traveling for years. I really like your tips as I love traveling and exploring new destinations. I am aiming to travel a lot more and share also my experience in my blog. Take care the both of you.

Helpful travel tips. Really excellent to know that you have more then 16 years traveling experience. I learned so much from your article. Thanks for sharing 🙂

At this time it looks like BlogEngine is the best blogging platform available right now. (from what I’ve read) Is that what you are using on your blog?

We use WordPress.

Great travel tips. Good job! This is worth to read. Thanks!

Amzing tips it’s use for us…. thanks for this post

This is my first time visit at here and i am in fact happy to read everthing at single place.

I love traveling with my friends and while traveling I always take care of health and take an travel insurance policy with me so that if in future something could happen with me there is no loss to my saving as treatment expenses are lot as they will lose your all savings too.

Hmm it seems like your site ate my first comment (it was super long) so I guess I’ll just sum it up what I wrote and say, I’m thoroughly enjoying your blog. I as well am an aspiring blog blogger but I’m still new to everything. Do you have any points for newbie blog writers? I’d genuinely appreciate it.

Many thanks to you! A very great article and so much to learn from these travel tips. Thanks, once again.

These tips are accurately significant to enjoy the travel trip. I’ll take note of this. Thanks!

Great post! I’ve learned a lot from you sharing this information with us.

It’s such a timely article. I’m planning to have my very first travel and this helped me a lot.

I love to travel alone and my family always worries about me and in order not to make them worry in every time I travel to somewhere I let them know and track me using a GPS Tracking device so that they will know that I’m always safe.

Congratulations on the super simple tips that are most useful.

Great post. Thanks for the awesome inspiration!

Thanx for this post, May be soon me and my friends planning for this trip.

If this is your first time Traveling abroad, Look up the monetary conversion before you go, pack your bag, Bring a charger, Check-in with your doctor and many more things you need to take care before going on travel.

Awesome article. This post is really helpful. Thanks for sharing these travel tips.

I am going on vacation next month and after reading your tips, I have got information a lot, Thank You

Such a great blog about travel, i learned a lot from this is very helpful!

Wonderful and interesting resource. Thank you so much for all your effort on this blog. I really appreciate it. While searching on travel I found your site.

Congratulation for both of you for bring succesful traveler blogger and having chance to see the world.

nice article

All these tips are great, but I truly appreciate the perspective about Sunrise is better than Sunset. I know I am probably in the minority here, but the freshness of morning is a rebirth for me. And a dazzling sunrise does more for lifting my spirits than almost anything else. Whatever problems I had yesterday, now, with this new sunrise, I have a chance at a fresh start. (Don’t get me wrong…I love a romantic sunset too!)

Very useful information for travellers 🙂

I am a frequent traveler and hence after trying and testing various hacks to make my travel easier, I have consolidated a list of travel tips that have always come handy!

What a fantastic experience! 4 years traveling with family. Congratulations on sharing this story with everyone! I loved the site. Thank you

The first tip is a great tip and invaluable not just for traveling but for life in general. We spend more time on devices than enjoying and making memories. Well made post!

Thank youposting the useful information about 27 Best Travel Tips after 7 Years Traveling the World, happy bogging.

If we spent some time on internet before traveling then we could save our time and money while traveling. for example, if we know the right place to say then it might save money and if we know some airline tips which can save both our time and money. These tips can help a lot while traveling. Few good examples are given below

Using offline dictionary (Google Translator) Doing Web Check-in (online) Pre-Booked hotels (Advance booking saves money)

These are just few examples we can do a lot. So I prefer to invest some time on internet 🙂

Really Great I Loved It

Great post guys, it was my bed time story last night 😀 Really sums up travelling at its best!

We’ve done some travelling separately before the blog and a couple of trips together to Cuba and Hawaii and it’s so nice to remember those times when we didn’t have to worry about updating our social media or getting together a guide 🙂 Which we did do eventually ha ha…

Splurging once in a while is so important, otherwise what’s the point in visiting amazing places if you don’t treat yourself!

the very good tip, thanks.

Hits the nail on the head on so many points. This brings back many memories of our travels, like when we packed too much and wanted to kill each other since we were both so miserable with our heavy bags. And the time we had to give up on the hostel in Morocco and paid for a pool day pass at the Sofitel. We felt like we were cheating, but in the end, we needed the rejuvenation. Always love your posts, thanks for the inspiration and congrats on all the years of traveling together!

I totally know that feeling. Having too much luggage just makes me miserable. When I go lighter, I enjoy myself more. And no you weren’t cheating, we all need a break from the road and that day at Sofitel must have made you feel amazing and ready to get back on the road again. Thanks for sharing your experiences!

Dave and Deb – Beautiful post! My husband and I are so inspired by the two of you! We are starting our travel lifestyle tomorrow (eek!) so this post really hits home. There is so much mentoring in this post 🙂 Congrats on 16 years! What an accomplishment!

Such great advice – I really appreciate all the tips that you have to share. Beautiful photos as well, it is clear you both love what you do and that’s what it really comes down to! – Elizabeth elizabethnubel.com

First of all I want to say terrific blog! I had a quick question which I’d like to ask if you don’t mind. I was curious to know how you center yourself and clear your head before writing. I’ve had difficulty clearing my thoughts in getting my ideas out there. I truly do take pleasure in writing but it just seems like the first 10 to 15 minutes are generally wasted simply just trying to figure out how to begin. Any suggestions or tips? Many thanks!

Very good article, my dream is to travel the whole world, for now I only know 3 countries. I want to know Europe, Asia and the Middle East is fantastic! Thank you for the content!

Belo Post was what I was looking for, I’ve been following some posts from this site and I’m really enjoying reading them.

Amazing article and tips guys. I’ve read it with such a big pleasure and I felt it each of them. I’ve traveled also a bit, just 14 countries till now but I can say you have an amazing list of tips. keep up with the good work

If you are going to be in a country for 10 days or more, it may be worth purchasing a SIM card. This can be a lot cheaper than paying for an international plan on your own local network. BTW, nice tips here. Very informative indeed!

Beautiful photos, I loved it!

I enjoyed all types, but the best is relax

Wow! Amazing tips, thank you for sharin your experience

Just you agree, for me you are an eternal god

For me god always exists

Wonderful blog and you use amazing photos on your website i like it….!!!

Amazing best travel tips ever !!!. You should publish your own book for the benefit of all travelers in the world.

I loved this article … As Natalie said, it greatly reduces our learning curve

Best out of best, thanks for sharing your view on travelling. Well tips revealed before planning for international trips, especially pertaining the security i.e. Travel Insurance.

That is great experience to visit here you have really provide a detail tips, this will help us to plan us next trip.

Awesome blog! Do you have any recommendations for aspiring writers?

I’m planning to start my own website soon but I’m a little lost on everything. Would you suggest starting with a free platform like WordPress or go for a paid option? There are so many choices out there that I’m completely overwhelmed .. Any suggestions? Thanks!

Hi Shane, here’s a link to our travel blogging tips. It gives a step by step guide on how to start a travel blog. https://theplanetd.com/how-to-start-a-travel-blog/

So positive, thank you for the amazing tips. We’re just starting out and ‘packing light’ really helped us stay away from those heavy airline baggage charges!

Thanks for sharing, many great nuggets of advice in there!

27 Best Travel Tips after 7 Years Traveling the World Many thanks any way! Wonderful Tips!

WOW !! Excellent article post with perfect photography no words for this great journey. I love this article thank you so much for sharing with us.

Thank you so much for sharing these tips.

I was looking for one tip that I would try on my next trip, but I could not find one as they all are great tips! Thanks for the inspiration!

Aw, thanks! Have a great trip!

Wonderful Tips!!!

Every tip is worth to note down. Thank you so much. Do keep writing such posts.

Nice post, Lovely to read about your trip, thanks for sharing.

What great tips! I’ve been traveling for years and there is a learning curve for sure. I had a sharp learning curve when the kids arrived because boy are traveling things different when you take the littles! One tip that never changes no matter the group or your changing situation is your #25 “Tell your traveling partner how much you appreciate them. That is SO true. Being appreciative of your family makes all things better – good times, bad times and everything in between.

We always travel with the kids and what an education they get! Not only the obvious like new cultures and experiences, but the day to day interactions between valued family members – most especially when you express that appreciation as you suggest! Travel helps you raise global children. 🙂

Bringing a sarong is small but smart thing to do. I also carry a small umbrella with me to keep the sun off during the mid-day tropical heat. Great tips!

Thank you for sharing the useful information about 27 Best Travel Tips after 7 Years Traveling the World, happy bogging.

That’s great post. Pictures are stunning and beautiful.

What a great tips! Thank you for sharing such great information. Very inspirational!

Yes, Before I had a habit was to mostly focus on camera to capture the nice photos and expected “likes” at social media while traveling instead of watching what was in front of me. Now I change, and one of my keys to get a successful trip is not to hesitate to ask and talk to locals. They will give you some good tips

Excellent advice about talking to locals. When you get to know the people who live there, it really makes for a wonderful experience. And you are so right, they have the best insider tips! We’re guilty of focusing only on photos at one point as well. When we started blogging as a career, we nearly lost ourselves in the work. We now always have to remind ourselves to have balance. It’s amazing to be able to capture a moment at our fingertips, but we feel it’s just as important to stop and take it all in. It’s easy to miss the moment when you’re looking through the lens. Thanks for sharing!

As I was reading your 27 Best Travel Tips For Travel it occurred to me that your article could just as easily be titled 27 Best Travel Tips For Life.

Thanks Carl. You hit the nail on the head. I think that travel has helped us learn so much about life.

It is a great truth, to travel we have to be with a certain amount of time in the budget to be able to make the most of all the wonders. Congratulations!!!

Agree with some of these, especially the bit about not waiting to travel if you don’t know the language. Don’t agree about the cell phones-technology has changed how people actually process information. It’s not just that they’re phone is a distraction, it’s also that it’s part of how they experience the world.

Pretty pictures! Was lucky to have visited 5 towns in Alsace (including Riquewihr, Colmar and Strasbourg) 2 years ago!

Article with sensational travel tips. That’s why I follow your blog and recommend it to several friends, congratulations.

This is another great post. I always love to read your blog post dear. keep sharing post like this.

Such a great post, such great wisdom not just on travel but on life in general. Thanks for sharing with us. I love to think You can create a life you dont need a vacation from, and you guys seem to have done just that. 🙂 As newbie blogger son our Travels, f which we have done some, I hope I will be as inspiring years from now!

Great list of travel tips Dave and Deb. I would like to recommend to fellow travelers to book in very last minute, ideally on the day when you travel, to get the best rates. Most hotels and hostels are willing to give you half rate or even better price just to not have a free room (which does bring them exactly 0). I booked couple of rooms for just $1 with this method on my trip to Japan!

Really awesome photos as always. Dave and Deb, my girlfriend and i we love your life style. You guys really inspire us. Thanks to you we have been traveling asia for 6 months. To be honest i was thinking its really bad idea to travel with your GF but after all experiences, this is the best way for traveling. Thanks for the whole site and this valuable tips. Cheers, Enes % Emma

I am so happy to hear that you are loving travel with your girlfriend. I couldn’t imagine traveling another way. It’s wonderful to be able to share experiences with the one you love.

Thanks for the great tips. People indeed forget a lot of simple things during travel. Simple Reminders are really helpful.

Thanks a lot for a great information sharing and tips !!!I wish to be there in 2017

Amazing Post! thanks for the sharing.

Good tips dear! There are many of them that we observe already and I hope all traveler like us should follow this amazing tips while travel a new country.

aww!!!!! I loved the part “Tell your Partner/Husband/Friend How Much You Appreciate them”. This is an awesome article i have seen ever. The person who loves you heartily will appreciate your company. 🙂

That must been an awesome experience to the kids to go to Everest

Great advise and Guide. I have started traveling as a couple and its been 6 months now. Your above tips will surely help us complete our goals in long term.

Thanks for the tips, I just found your blog yesterday and have been working my way through a few of your posts – love how down to earth you are. The airlifted out of the Amazon post made me renew my travel insurance immediately, yikes!! Hope you’ve made a full recovery.

Thanks Helen and welcome to our blog! I am so happy that you stopped by and stuck around for a bit. I’m also doubly happy that you renewed your travel insurance. It is so important.

Really comprehensive tips for any traveler. I’ve made use of some of them in my travels too. Thanks!

Thanks Dave ! As a traveler and photographer amateur, I find your recommendations very useful. Many of them I try to put into practice always (but not always is possible) Cheers!

Hi. We are just entering our 4th year on the road and I think I agree with just about everything above. It’s always changing, we find new, better ways, or what we want from this lifestyle changes, so for a few months we’ll be regular backpackers, then we’ll chill and rest for a while in a city apartment rental. Whatever, we love this life. Your picture of that little stove on the Everest trail brought back happy memories, we took the kids up there a few months ago, great times. Cheers!

Hi Alyson, congratulations on four years on the road. That must have been an amazing experience for your kids to go to Everest. You are giving them the best education. Good luck with the rest of your travels! Cheers

50 of the Most Useful Travel Tips

12/12/2021 by Kristin Addis 3 Comments

As I approach 10 years since starting this blog and embarking on an endless journey around the world, I’m reflecting on the things I’ve learned along the way that weren’t obvious to me before I started traveling.

The best part about exploring the world is the unexpected – the things you didn’t know would leave a lasting impression and potentially change your life. That said, getting caught totally off-guard is never fun, so here are my 50 best tips from 10 years of traveling the world from packing to prepping, safety, and more:

Table of Contents

50. Pack LIGHT

For the first two years that I traveled solo in Southeast Asia, I only had a 35 liter carry-on backpack and a sling purse for my camera and wallet, and that was it. This gave me the ultimate freedom to walk when possible, to carry everything I had on my own, and to easily keep everything contained and within my sight. I never had to check a bag and never dealt with lost luggage or baggage fees, and I never regretted packing so light!

The key to packing carry-on only is bringing items that have multiple uses. Bring clothes that are easy to layer and mix and match well.

49. Bring extra underwear and socks

Even though packing light is important, if there’s anything you should bring extra of, it’s underwear and socks. Undergarments that you can’t wear multiple times without washing should always be plentiful when you travel. I always bring a pair of socks for every day I’ll be away, plus more undies than I think I’ll need. Being able to change into a new pair without worrying about running out brings me peace of mind when I’m on the road.

That said, I bring far fewer socks in tropical places where I’ll be wearing flip flops most of the time.

48. Use a carry-on backpack instead of a suitcase

Even if you aren’t necessarily doing the whole “backpacking” thing, traveling with a backpack as opposed to a suitcase is a game-changer. Backpacks allow for much more mobility and help you get through the airport faster. The only time I prefer a suitcase is when it’s going to be a quick trip that’s straight from home to airport to hotel, and even then, I often regret the suitcase since I almost always encounter stairs somewhere along the way.

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Minimalist packing: how to go carry-on only

47. Pack your own travel towel

You might be thinking that having fresh towels in your hotel or Airbnb is a given, but that isn’t always the case. Especially if you’re traveling on a budget and staying in hostels, the towels can be less than desirable or you might even have to pay to use one. Bring a travel towel with you that you can use post-shower, at the beach, or wherever you need to dry off.

46. Leave room in your bag

Being able to bring back one-of-a-kind travel relics is a must for me. You never know what kind of art pieces, clothing, or other souvenirs you’ll want to bring home, so leave a bit of space in your bag to be able to fit in anything you buy.

While traveling carry-on only, this usually ends up being little pieces of handmade jewelry or clothing for me – something functional that I can utilize while I’m still on the road.

45. Solid beauty products

Many travelers swear by solid shampoo and conditioner bars. Not only are they low-waste, but they’re awesome to bring with when traveling because there’s no risk of spillage while en route to your destination.

You can find solid shampoo, conditioner, body soap, even shaving soap at Lush. Nowadays there are plenty of zero waste shops online where you can get almost anything in bar form, like Wild Minimalist .

My favorite natural travel toiletries

44. Trade clothes on the road

Even though I only had about a week and a half’s worth of clothes in my carry on during that year I was in Southeast Asia, I switched out parts of my wardrobe frequently by trading with other travelers. Sometimes I’d donate something I was tired of and buy a new tank or dress on the road. It doubled as a souvenir and a functional item!

43. Book in the local language

If your flight doesn’t originate in your home country or you’re booking domestic flights in your destination, it’s often much cheaper to book on the country’s local website. For example, when I was flying from Berlin to Johannesburg, it was about 30% less to book on the German site (which means it’ll be in the German language, so ask a friend to help or use Google Chrome, which has a translate feature on the top right of the browser window). It’s also about a quarter of the price to book inter-country flights within Chile on the Chilean LATAM site, in Spanish.

42. Be as flexible as possible with dates (and even destinations)

I’ve gotten some amazing deals by using the Kayak explore function and inputting my departure airport, a date range, and letting it come back with flight options for all over the world. You can be narrow or cast a very wide net depending on how flexible you’re feeling.

I also like to look at the calendar view on Momondo or Google flights to see if shifting things one day can make a big price difference. If you have any room for flexibility, you can save hundreds of dollars.

41. Track flight prices

Whether you’re trying to decide which dates to travel or you’ve already picked your travel dates, consider tracking flight prices before you book to get the best deal. If you start this process early, you can save a lot on your flights. I use the app Hopper to track flight prices. Hopper sends you notifications on when flight prices change and gives advice on whether to wait or book your flights ASAP.

40. Check all nearby airports

Before you book your flight, check to see if your destination has different airport options. For example, Chicago has two airports and many cities have airports surprisingly close to one another. If you can swing a few extra hours of travel, booking your flight to a cheaper city nearby and then taking a bus or renting a car can save you money.

39. Use a variety of travel websites to check prices, but always book with the airline

Momondo, kayak, and Google flights could all potentially have different prices that they display. If you’ve been doing a lot of searching lately, cookies can also impact the prices you see. I like to use different browsers when I am ready to book just to see if the price is any different, which it often is!

Even though I may use third-party websites to do my research, I almost always book directly with the airline. Otherwise it will become a HUGE pain if you encounter any issues or need to make changes, because you’ll then be dealing with the middleman you booked with rather than directly with the airline. If a deal seems too good to be true on an intermediary website, check Trust Pilot to see how people actually feel about their booking experience with that company.

How I found a flight from Europe to US for $400 on Skyscanner

How to make your (economy) long haul flight more comfortable

Accommodation

38. Check different websites for the best deal, and book directly

When I planned a trip to Myanmar in early 2020, I found significant price differences between Agoda and booking.com. Each time I found a hotel I liked, I’d cross check it with other booking sites to see if I could get the same room for cheaper, and I often could.

It’s also worth checking to see if you can just book directly with the hotel. Sometimes in South America at smaller hostels that didn’t have their own websites, I would just book the first night on booking.com and then ask to book the rest of the nights I wanted directly when I arrived. This usually saved me about 20% on the room, as that’s how much booking.com charges the accommodation owners!

This will not work well around the holidays or busy times when you need to book ahead of time to secure a room, but you can always check the hotel or hostel’s website to see if they have deals or will offer you a better rate.

37. Use Airbnb for unique stays

I first used Airbnb to find a much cheaper accommodation option for my mom and I when we visited Auckland in New Zealand in 2013. Thus began the love affair. Although Airbnb has gotten a lot more expensive over the years, I still love it for unique accommodation around the world. I’ve used it for tree houses in Washington, more local accommodations with kitchens in Europe, and for unique, sustainable desert dwellings all around the American Southwest.

I like Airbnb a lot more in Europe and North America and prefer hotels and hostels in Southeast Asia and South America where the value is better and I eat most of my meals out anyway.

36. Be a Worldpacker to stay for free

If you are looking for a less-than-traditional travel experience and want to learn something while you visit a new place, consider volunteering as a Worldpacker . The basic premise is that you volunteer at a site in exchange for your room and board. You do have to pay for the annual membership, but it’s totally worth it considering the money you can save on accommodation (get $10 off your membership with discount code “BMTM”).

If you’re curious about being a Worldpacker, you can read all about team member Emily’s experience here.

35. Try staying outside the city center

If you’re traveling to a new city, chances are that most of the attractions you’ll want to see are in the center. Hotels take advantage of their superb location to charge more for their rooms. However, you can often find better accommodations outside of the city center. Plus, staying in a more residential area can give you a better idea of how people in that place actually live their daily lives.

If you do decide to stay in a lesser-known area, make sure to do some research beforehand to make sure it’s a safe neighborhood and that you’ll have easy access to transportation.

Is it weird to stay in hostels past 30?

How to cook great meals in hostel kitchens

34. Cook meals from local ingredients

If you are staying somewhere that has a kitchen, consider cooking a few meals while you’re there – especially breakfast. You’ll save money, plus hitting up the local market and cooking with local ingredients is a fun way to learn about the culture of the place you’re visiting.

33. Do fancy restaurants for lunch instead of dinner

Being a huge foodie myself, I don’t want to cook all of my meals myself – I want to experience the culture through the food, too! I’ve learned that many expensive restaurants that are more crowded during dinner hours and usually have lunch specials with nearly identical offerings as dinnertime at a fraction of the cost. It’ll also be much easier to get a table at lunch as opposed to dinner when the restaurant is usually full.

32. Try street food

Street food gets a bad rap, but it shouldn’t! I almost exclusively ate street food while in Southeast Asia (and so do the locals!), and live for roadside tacos in Mexico. Street food is almost always much cheaper than eating in a restaurant and often just as delicious and even more authentic. Especially if you want to grab something quick while you’re out and about, stopping at a food stall is an excellent choice.

Ingredients for street food are often bought that morning and the food is cooked right in front of you. Especially in Southeast Asia, going to a restaurant often means eating the exact same things but without being able to see it made in front of you, and paying more for the experience.

One pro-tip with street food safety is to look for the stalls where there are plenty of locals eating or in line. That tells me it’s safe AND delicious.

31. Avoid eating near tourist attractions or in city centers

You’ll spend way too much money for a sub-par meal if you opt for the closest restaurant to the city’s hottest tourist attraction.

My MO is always to walk a few streets away from the main square or touristy place to find the good stuff. Again, I’m always looking for something that appears to be popular with locals. I’ve had some amazing experiences this way, including being invited to a local coconut brawl ceremony in Nepal (I’m totally serious) when a local saw us eating some local food and was so delighted he invited us to go. We were the only foreigners there!

30. Ask locals for suggestions

Locals know where the best food is, so don’t be afraid to ask for suggestions at your hotel, hostel, or Airbnb. My trick is not to ask them where I should eat, because then they may make automatic suggestions that they think would appeal to a tourist, but where they like to eat. Once at the restaurant, I always ask the staff, if language allows, which dish is their personal favorite.

29. Try things that scare you

I would never have found out that I freaking love wood ear mushrooms had a not tried that random, leathery looking brown thing on my plate in China, nor would I have discovered that I am obsessed with oysters on the half shell if I hadn’t tried them in Taiwan.

There are so many dishes that I have been able to discover by being willing to try them abroad, and my palette has expanded so much as a result. Plus, honestly, it makes me more worldly and easier to please. Locals absolutely love sharing the dishes that they grew up with, and being willing to try things, even if you don’t think you will like rabbit or you have never had that type of fish before, can go a long way.

It’s definitely happened that I don’t like things from time to time, but as long as you’re polite and can laugh about it, people are usually very understanding and happy that you tried.

28. Find out what the national dish is

If you’re traveling internationally, find out what your destination’s national dish is and try it. Especially in Latin America, locals have a lot of pride for their local specialties. Whenever I am in a new place, I ask what the quintessential dish is and I make it a point to have it. Trying the national dish is a great way to get acquainted with the country’s gastronomy and many dishes have a unique story behind them.

Keeping Your Belongings Organized and Safe

27. Make copies of important documents

It’s important to always have a back up plan in case things get lost, so make a copy of your documents: passport, visa or tourist card, vaccination card, etc. and store the copies in a different place than the originals. That way, you lessen the risk of losing everything all at once.

Have specific places that you keep certain things as well so that you can stay organized. For example, keep all of your chargers and electronic accessories in one place and your toiletries in another.

26. Use lockers or a mesh wire bag protector

When I was traveling in Asia and staying mostly in hostels, I would use a wire mesh bag protector to lock up my backpack when I was out. I brought it with me in South Africa and locked up my bag in the trunk between accommodations as well. Not every hostel will have lockers and not every long haul train will provide an area to keep your things safe, and this gave me peace of mind.

Although someone with wire cutters could still access my bag, sure, I made myself the most annoying person in the whole hostel to rob, so it worked well for me!

25. Use a dummy wallet in high-crime areas

When I’m in the big cities of South Africa or South America, I use a dummy purse. My dummy purse has some canceled cards, petty cash, and the look of being my actual purse just in case I get mugged and need to hand something over quickly. The thief gets what they want – a quick getaway with something they think is worthwhile – while the real goods – my phone, keys, and money, are stashed in my boots, bra, or a hidden pocket within my clothing.

24. Check travel requirements well ahead of time

Especially now, every country has different travel requirements and some require health surveys and other documents that you’ll need to provide up to a month in advance.

If you don’t check these well ahead of time, completing as much as you can before arriving at the airport, you run the risk of being denied boarding. For example, for a recent BMTM Adventures trip to Patagonia, we had to submit vaccination proof a month before the trip, get a PCR test three days beforehand, and fill out an affidavit no more than 48 hours beforehand. Traveling internationally these days often requires multiple steps and it’s easy to get confused, so stay on top of it by checking early!

It’s also great to do all that you can prior to boarding. I was able to skip several lines when returning to the US after a trip in the Bahamas because I completed my health surveys ahead of time and didn’t have to do it before the security line, saving me literal hours. I had to download an app and submit results first, and honestly wondered if I should even bother, but when I got to skip a several hundred person line at the airport, I knew it had been worth it!

Personal Safety

23. Be aware

This might sound really obvious, but one of the biggest mistakes that people make with regards to their safety, particularly when traveling alone, is having headphones in, or being head-down in their phone when they should be looking all around them. If I am walking through a city, or in an area where I know I have to be a bit more vigilant, I’m looking around, I’m listening, I’m ducking into shops if I’m afraid someone is following too closely. I’m especially not being flashy, and I’m not giving in to distractions.

22. Know about scams and dangers before you go

Before I land in a new place, one of the first things that I do before I leave home is a quick Google search on common scams, especially at the airport. This is often one of the first places that scammers will try to overcharge unsuspecting tourists. If you know what to expect, you can avoid the most common issues. It only takes a few minutes of research and can save you hundreds of dollars.

I have saved so much money and stress throughout the years by knowing about common scams before even boarding the plane. Know how much a taxi should cost, know where to find it, and keep your phone away when wandering through big cities where it could be snatched out of your hand.

21. Don’t get too intoxicated, especially alone

Most of the biggest issues that befall travelers happen when they are intoxicated and unable to make the right decisions or defend themselves. I know everyone wants to just let loose and have fun when they travel, but remember that you have to still behave abroad like you would at home. That means keeping your wits about you and taking a taxi late at night rather than walking alone.

20. Download maps before you go

I always download an off-line map, usually on the free maps.me app, before boarding my flight. You can use this without WiFi or connection to track where you’re going and avoid getting lost.

19. Use ridesharing apps instead of taxis

Ridesharing isn’t available in every country, but it is a safer alternative to taxis. Services like Uber or Grab Taxi are much safer for solo female travelers, especially. You already have a pre-arranged route, no money needs to be exchanged, and the driver is pre-identified.

Naturally you’ll need connection for this. Sometimes you can use airport WiFi once you land, but I personally like to also get an international SIM card that can be activated as soon as I land. It’s often much cheaper and works better than roaming with your home plan, which can cost upwards of $10/day. Most airport SIM sellers offer the same deal as you can find in town, but some, like Bali, charge way too much. This is also part of my scams research before I depart.

41 safety tips for solo female travlers from the experts

18. Bring backup batteries

A power bank for your phone and an extra camera battery can be game changers while you’re on the road. Being without a cell phone can be annoying at best, dangerous at worst. Most power banks are small and carry several charges, so it’s worth bringing along and having fully charged before you leave home.

17. Remember to check if you’ll need an adapter

You’d be surprised how often travelers forget that they will need an adapter when they travel. If you’re going somewhere remote, don’t count on getting one when you land or borrowing from your accommodation. I like universal adapters that can work for any country and have just about every potential output option you could need. Extra points if it’s the kind that has USB charging ports, too!

16. Download important apps ahead of time

If you know which ridesharing or navigation app you will need for your trip, download it onto your smartphone ahead of time to avoid fumbling around to get it installed last minute. You never know when you might be without strong Wifi and using your data to download an app is a waste. Also make sure your phone has enough memory to download the app, too.

I also highly recommend downloading Google translate and downloading the language for the country that you will be traveling in before you leave home. That way, you can use it off-line if needed. In a bind, it’s a great way to ask a question if there’s no other way to communicate.

The best electronics bag for travel

Navigation and Language

15. Look up important routes beforehand

If you’ll be arriving to a foreign country where you can only use your phone on Wifi, map out important routes ahead of time. On maps.me, you should be able to track your location without having phone signal. If you have the route already programmed, you’ll be able to make sure that your taxi or rideshare is taking you to the right place.

14. Download public transportation maps

Having a map of public transportation is a huge help when visiting a new city. When I went to Mexico City solo the first time, I was overwhelmed by the gigantic metro system but it was totally doable with the digital map I downloaded.

13. Learn a little bit of the local language

One of the most common questions I get is how to handle the language barrier. This is rarely a big problem for me, because so much is indicated already by context and miming goes a long way. That said, people love when visitors at least learn simple greetings and thanks. Knowing a little bit of the language is a great way to show respect and kindness to local people .

How to say “Hello” in 100 of the world’s most spoken languages

How to say “Thank you” in 100 of the world’s most spoken languages

12. Brush up on local history

While going to a new place totally fresh is cool, knowing a little about a city or country’s historical context can add a level of depth to your trip. It also might help you understand cultural nuances and connect with locals in a more authentic way.

I think it also helps us travelers to be more conscientious people. Knowing the struggles and experiences that people have had is an important way to be respectful while you travel.

Avoiding Crowds

11. Visit during shoulder season

Shoulder season is the sweet spot between high season and low season when prices are affordable, the weather is still nice, and there are fewer tourists. Usually high season in a given place coincides with better weather, but that often means peak pricing and crowds.

That said, I also love off-season travel, too. Alaska is amazing in the winter , and I enjoy the lushness of Southeast Asia in the rainy season . East Africa during the rainy season, however, has resulted in less than ideal situations . For this reason, I aim for a shoulder season whenever I can.

10. Be willing to get up early and explore during dinnertime

When visiting national parks and major tourist attractions, you’ll find me exploring during sunrise, taking star photos, and going back for sunset, even if it means I’m hiking down in the dark or missing dinnertime. Even for popular parks or attractions, that means I often get things all to myself.

It can be tempting to resist that seductive snooze button in the morning, but getting to popular places right when they open (which is how I got El Gran Cenote, one of Tulum’s most popular cenotes , all to myself), or before sunrise can often mean you get to experience it without anyone else, and in its best light, too!

9. Look for off-the-beaten-path gems

Sometimes the best places are the ones that few travelers go to. This is definitely the case in many beach destinations where tourists tend to gather in one specific spot, leaving other, just as beautiful, beaches untouched. The example of San Pancho vs. Sayulita in Mexico comes to mind.

Sure, some of these places will be more difficult to find and get to, but having a gorgeous beach, waterfall, or overlook to yourself is totally worth it.

Meeting People

8. Take a class

A great way to meet locals and other travelers is to take a class while you’re in a new place. Whether you’re into yoga, cooking classes, language, pottery, etc., keep an eye out for flyers around town for classes or look at Trip Advisor. I’ve noticed that a lot of cafés tend to have a board for this sort of thing. If not, check Google Maps for any cultural centers or gyms that offer classes to the public.

7. Stay in social accommodation

Even though I don’t stay in hostels much anymore, as I feel I’ve ‘aged out’ of them at 35, I used to LOVE them in my 20s. You have a built in network of people to hang out with right off the bat.

Just because a place is a hostel doesn’t have to mean you’re too old, as well. They tend to skew much younger in New Zealand, Europe, and Southeast Asia, but people of all ages stay in ‘backpackers’ in Africa, the age range is much more varied at hostels in Central America, and you’ll find multi-generational families in hospidajes in South America.

6. Sign up for day tours

Even though I tend to opt for hotels or Airbnbs that aren’t as social now during my travels, I still want to meet people. I find day tours are a perfect way to do that, and a good way to split costs, as well.

For example, even though I had private accommodation in Siargao in the Philippines , I took a day tour to Sugba Lagoon and met an awesome fellow traveler whom I hung out with for the rest of my time there, and we even met up when she moved to Berlin (my former home), too!

Mindset + Keeping Calm

5. Don’t overplan

When I first began my solo trip around the world back in 2012, I bought a one-way ticket to Bangkok and didn’t even have my first night of accommodation booked. Nothing was planned at all as I just wanted to have total freedom, meet people along the way, and make plans as I went. These days, I tend to take much shorter trips and plan more of the major stops, but I still leave a lot of room in my schedule for serendipity.

I know some people are planners by nature, but whatever your style may be, avoid overwhelming yourself with an endless list of activities and instead give yourself ample idle time during your day. This way, you can go with the flow and have a more spontaneous trip. Sometimes the best experiences happen unexpectedly and you won’t have that if you build a strict schedule for yourself.

How do you know when to plan ahead or wing it?

4. Stay active

If you live an active lifestyle, don’t let travel stop you from moving your body. Go for a hike, opt for walking instead of taking a car, or join a workout class. These are all great ways to take care of your mind and body while you travel.

I love going to places that have a specific activity as the main draw, like diving, hiking, or surfing. This way, I meet plenty of other travelers, and I have a built-in activity, too.

3. Put your phone down

This used to be a bit easier 10 years ago when many places I traveled to had terrible WiFi and social media was not as ubiquitous, but make the most of your time by putting your phone down. Don’t spend the whole trip scrolling social media as it will take you out of the experience. This may seem obvious, but so many people spend their trips checking email or seeing what other people are up to when they could be taking in the sights and smells of the cafe they’re in, starting up conversations with strangers, or welcoming a moment of calm. This is your big chance to be present, so take it!

2. Remember that things will go wrong

No matter how long you’ve been traveling. Having things go wrong is inevitable. It’s still life! Things will get delayed, weather will impact your plans, and you may have to make changes.

The key here isn’t avoiding any kind of mishap. It’s being mentally and emotionally prepared for when things will go wrong and being able to roll with the punches. Sometimes the result is better than what you envisioned, anyway.

Most recently, a friend and I got stranded on a tiny, remote island in French Polynesia due to rain. So we negotiated with a local fisherman to bring is by boat to Bora Bora instead. It ended up being a fantastic adventure, and a way more memorable experience!

My best advice is to avoid dwelling on the frustrating aspects and get straight to problem solving. This has actually become a valuable life skill that I’ve noticed I’m more adept at than others who don’t travel much. I think more quickly, am more resourceful, and am more confident in myself. I owe this all to things going wrong on the road!

-REXT NEXT-

What to do when things go wrong when you solo travel

1. Travel Alone

Over the past 10 years, the majority of my trips have been solo ones. That’s not how I ever envisioned it going when I first started planning my big trip to Southeast Asia that sparked the previous decade of traveling. I had no interest in traveling alone because I assumed it would be lonely. Now I know that traveling solo means meeting tons of other people, provided you’re willing to put yourself out there. It has meant the best adventures and freedom and most of all, my confidence in myself has skyrocketed. I don’t even know who I would be without solo travel.

We’re all about solo travel here at BMTM. That’s because traveling solo can be a liberating experience for anyone. Moving at your own pace, choosing your next adventure, and being able to enjoy your own company can be life-changing. Some of my absolute favorite travel memories happened when I was out exploring on my own.

Although I could write a book on the topic of travel tips (oh wait, I have! ), these are the top ones that I have learned throughout the years and that I keep coming back to.

What are some that you would add?

Pin me for later:

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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Magdalene says

12/18/2021 at 11:44 pm

This post is so exhaustive and super useful for solo travellers like me. Some of this tips I swear by that I actually use.

I plan ahead a lot. However on a recent trip I didn’t check how close the places I wanted to explore is. This I learnt a harsh lesson to check first before setting out

Engaging the locals is super fun and useful. They tell you how to navigate their city. Downside is that some locals may ask for tips (some cash) for the help.

Freddy joe says

07/06/2022 at 4:03 am

love those tips, Thanks for the Share.

12/23/2022 at 5:23 am

High key practical advice, as always. Amazing. Nice smile too 🙂

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9 Ways To Travel More Safely

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Whether you're traveling within the U.S. or to a foreign country, you should take extra precautions to stay safe. Distractions born of travel — such as taking in the sights, eating delectable food and exploring new cities — can increase your risk.

But it doesn't have to be this way.

These international and domestic travel safety tips will help you reduce your risk so you can enjoy your vacation and avoid trouble as much as feasible. Here's how to travel safely — ranging from actions that can be implemented on the fly and ones that require a bit more preparation.

1. Digitize important documents

Your wallet or purse is filled with important documents that criminals can exploit. Leave unnecessary items at home (like your Social Security card) and make copies of everything else you would need in an emergency, like prescriptions, a backup credit card (so you can at least make a digital purchase in a pinch) and your passport.

Take a picture and upload them to a secure folder on the web. This way, if anything is stolen, you can easily take steps to reduce the damage that criminals can cause. You can easily call the bank to cancel debit and credit cards and request a new ID from the embassy. You can also use a secure digital vault system like 1Password or LastPass to store these documents.

2. Minimize how much cash you carry

It is important to have a little cash when traveling, but most retailers accept credit cards, even abroad. Not having cash minimizes your wallet's value to a thief, and you can dispute unknown charges from a card. Just make sure to carry a card that has no foreign transaction fees when traveling internationally.

3. Look less like a tourist

The more you dress and act like a local, the less risk there is from criminals targeting you as a tourist. Adapting your style to that of the locals, walking with confidence and keeping maps hidden can help you blend in. When using directions on your phone, only look at it briefly while walking.

Further, familiarize yourself with the city and your route before leaving the hotel. If you do need to look up directions for an extended period of time, consider stepping into a store or cafe to do so, rather than staying outside.

4. Share your itinerary with someone you trust

Whether you're traveling alone or with others, share your itinerary with someone you trust back home. Check in once a day to let them know that you've made it to your next destination or back to your hotel. These small steps increase your safety during travel.

It's also wise to create and share a safe word so that family or friends would know if you're in trouble, even if the conversation seems normal to someone else who may be listening. You can take this a step further and consider sharing your live location with a trusted friend or family member via your smartphone.

5. Research travel advisories for destinations

According to the U.S. Department of State, "conditions can change rapidly in a country at any time." Its website keeps a continuous list of travel advisories in destinations around the world. While these advisories don't always mean that you shouldn't travel, they do help make you aware of the potential conditions you'll find when you arrive, or areas to avoid.

Check the State Department website before making travel plans, and again before you depart. Somewhere that may have been safe when you booked your trip may have deteriorated since then.

6. Sign up for Smart Traveler Enrollment Program

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program , or STEP, is a free service from the State Department that allows citizens traveling or living abroad to receive the latest security updates. The information that you provide also makes it easier for the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate to contact you in an emergency.

7. Notify credit card companies of your travel plans

Because you may be traveling to cities outside your normal spending patterns, let your bank know your dates and destinations of travel. Many banks allow you to notify them via your online banking portal.

This will minimize the potential of the bank locking your account due to perceived fraudulent transactions, which could leave you stranded.

Additionally, consider bringing a backup credit card.

8. Be careful with public Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi can open your devices and sensitive information to hackers. Using a VPN service is one of the best ways we know of to stay safe in an airport, when exploring your destination or at your hotel. VPN services create a secure connection to protect your personal information when browsing the internet or using web-connected apps on an open connection.

Security.org , a security product review site, conducted a study in June 2020 and found that just 31% of U.S. internet users use a VPN service for public Wi-Fi connections. That means almost 70% of public Wi-Fi users are at risk of being hacked.

9. Get travel insurance

To improve both your physical and financial safety, consider purchasing a travel insurance policy ahead of your trip. This safety net is helpful in avoiding out-of-pocket expenses for emergency medical treatment, trip delays, cancellations or interruptions, lost luggage or evacuations.

Most policies will reimburse travelers for unused accommodations, transit or activities that were nonrefundable but had to be canceled for a covered reason. Similarly, if your luggage is lost by an airline or train company, you’ll likely get reimbursed through the baggage protection on your policy. Plus, if your policy has emergency medical coverage, you won’t be hit with a huge bill for medical attention overseas (where your U.S.-based health insurance is likely not useful).

Some credit cards come with built-in protections, whereas others don’t — in the case of the latter, you will need to purchase a stand-alone policy .

If finding ways to travel safely is your goal …

Now that we've shared some tips on how to travel safely, you can travel with more confidence and less risk. Though implementing most of these tips has little or no cost, they may take time to set up. Investing the time to increase your travel safety will be well worth it if you can avoid dangerous situations that can interrupt or ruin your next trip.

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75 Travel Tips That Are Genuinely Useful, From People Who Use Them Constantly

Flyin' first class up in the sky and poppin' champagne are not required.

BuzzFeed Staff

If Emily in Paris also inspired you to take a spontaneous trip to France , we feel you. But traveling on a whim isn't so simple. As easy as it is to dream about sipping coffee with a view of the Eiffel Tower, the reality of getting there can be stressful and overwhelming.

With these smart travel tips and tricks — taken from frequent fliers from the buzzfeed community , reddit , and youtube — you'll be able to say 'au revoir' to any previous stressors. keep scrolling to learn how to make your trip easier. bon voyage.

1. Start a travel savings system that works for you.

"Traveling is one of my biggest priorities, so each paycheck I try putting two hundred dollars aside that will go into my travel fund. Over time, that piggy bank adds up. I never feel bad about using that hard earned money to travel because that's exactly what I've been saving it for. I have friends who swear by Qapital, an app that lets you set your own savings rules and goals. For example, for every coffee you buy at Starbucks, the app will put a dollar into your "travel fund." Figure out a system that works for you, and start putting cash away little by little for that trip you've been dying to take." — Hannah Loewentheil

2. Consider your priorities when deciding where to splurge and where to save.

"Most of us have a budget while traveling, and sadly, you can't splurge on everything. While planning, think about your priorities and the things that will make your vacation really special, and then go from there. For me and my husband, food is a huge part of traveling . Whenever we travel, we budget a good chunk of our travel expenses for food, and we make a bunch of well-researched restaurant reservations ahead of time. 

Some people might really care about their accommodations and splurge on a five-star hotel with all the amenities, while adventure-lovers might shell out on unique activities like scuba diving, bungee jumping, or hot air ballooning. Think about what you love traveling for and go from there, both while you're planning and once you arrive at your destination." — Hannah Loewentheil

3. "Travel doesn't need to be as expensive as you think, and you can make it affordable by doing a home swap, staying in hostels, or camping if you're really on a budget. Travel after the busy season too: July and August can be very busy, so try booking a trip in May or September."

— u/ sellotaped

4. Keep a spreadsheet or list to stay organized.

"Whenever I begin planning a trip, I make an Excel sheet or Google Doc that lays everything out. I list everything that I need to book (hotels, flights, rental car, restaurant reservations, or any ticketed activities). Then, as I go about my planning, I'll check off exactly what's booked, complete with confirmation numbers, cancellation dates, and total cost. Having a list of all necessary bookings and expenses in one single place not only helps me stay organized but also helps me manage and stick to my budget." — Hannah Loewentheil

5. Whenever possible, be flexible about your travel dates.

"Of course, there are certain situations where you can't be flexible about your travel dates, but whenever possible, I try not to book travel with a hard and fast plan. Instead, I choose my destination and then I begin looking into hotels and flights. Usually, I avoid flying on Fridays and Sundays — when flights are most expensive — and I choose a midweek option (Thursday and Tuesday flights are my sweet spot).

Google Flights has a grid option feature through which you can compare prices for an entire month. If your work schedule allows it, avoid travel on major holidays and long weekends because the prices on hotels and flights rise exponentially. For example, the hotel room you're eyeing probably costs three times as much for the week between Christmas and New Year's as it does the first or second week of January." — Hannah Loewentheil

6. The best time to book any holiday is off-season, not only in your own country but also in the place you're travelling to.

It's important to avoid school holidays and national holidays, but Louis Cole recommended you also research the main holidays in your destination country and avoid traveling then, too.

7. "Thanksgiving can be a great time to travel internationally. Since it's an American holiday and people are traveling between states, ticket prices abroad go way down."

— u/ Princess335

8. "Always check the expiration date of your passport well before traveling. Many countries require six months of validity to grant entry, so the effective deadline might be sooner than the actual expiration date written on your passport."

— u/ gotthelowdown

9. "Download Maps.me. Forget Google Maps. This app lets you download a map of the country you're visiting for free while you're using Wi-Fi, and later it can function as GPS and even recalculate without cell signal."

"I never use a cell plan when I'm out of the country, and Maps.me always works."   —u/ weremallard

10. "When you can, book directly through airline and hotel websites rather than through third-party travel websites. This will reduce the chances of your reservation getting lost, and it also allows more flexibility to make changes to your booking. Hotel or airline staff can't change reservations that were not made on their own system."

"I've also heard you often get better rooms and upgrades if you book directly with the hotel."

11. Familiarize yourself with your destination ahead of time.

"One of the hardest parts of traveling somewhere new is that you have no idea what the layout of that destination looks like, which makes plotting an itinerary tricky. While I'm planning a trip, I spend some time on Google Maps orienting myself. I scroll around the different neighborhoods, and I flag a bunch of places (sites, restaurants, shops, etc.) as 'want to go' spots — a useful feature I really love about Google Maps.

Once I have some places on the map, I can begin to draft a basic daily itinerary based on points of interest that are close to one another. And best of all, I can download the map complete with all my saved places or share it. That way, for example, when I'm finishing up a visit to a museum, I can look on my map and see which of my saved restaurants are nearby for lunch." — Hannah Loewentheil

12. "When booking hotels or airline, use a private (or incognito) browser. Travel sites often track your visits and your search history to other similar sites, so turning on private browsing may save some money."

— u/ Newhomeworld

13. "Plan ahead of time how you're going to get from the airport to your accommodation."

"When you land is when you're most vulnerable: tired, not thinking clearly, and desperate to get to your room. Do some research ahead of time and figure out your transportation plan."— u/gotthelowdown

14. When in doubt, rent a car.

"Whenever I'm traveling somewhere outside a city, I rent a car. I used to go back and forth weighing the pros and cons, but it didn't take long to realize that renting a car is always the move. Not only does renting a car give you the flexibility to travel on your own time and pace, but it also allows you to explore places that are off the beaten path. 

My husband and I were hesitant about renting a car in Iceland, especially after we read about the unpredictable weather. But ultimately, renting a car was the best decision we made the entire trip. We spent hours driving aimlessly, admiring the otherworldly scenery, finding hidden hot springs that we had all to ourselves, and cruising past secret waterfalls the guidebooks didn't mention (all with no tour buses in sight!)." — Hannah Loewentheil

15. "Instead of renting a car from a company like Hertz or Enterprise, try using the app Turo . It's like Airbnb for cars and usually saves money."

— u/ninetiesplease

16. "For US travel, pick up a National Park Service map and guide along with an annual pass. Just about anywhere you go, you'll be near a park system area, and so many are amazing. I wasted a lot of years driving past these places, and I wish I knew to stop and explore."

— u/ianminter

17. Mixing up your types of accommodation can be cheaper and make for different experiences.

"It doesn’t have to be all five-star or all backpackers. Plus, you can stay in the city or country to get the full experience of the destination." — Louis Cole

18. "Hostels are filled with friendly, well-traveled, and knowledgeable people. Staying at them is a great way to see the world. Just bring a lock for your stuff at night."

— u/ ComeAbout

19. Working in a hostel is an easy way to make money and meet people.

“When I travelled Australia, I worked at a youth hostel where I would get a meal and board in exchange for a few hours of gardening. It’s a great way to meet a whole new community of people.” — Louis Cole

20. And when it comes to booking accommodations, always read the reviews!

"When you use a travel agent, you're getting an expert opinion on hotels around the world. But if you're booking a trip yourself, you can take advantage of something even better : hundreds or thousands of real-life user reviews written by people who have actually stayed there. Look, user reviews must sometimes be taken with a grain of salt, but overall, I find them extremely useful. 

By reading a lot of user experiences, I can get an accurate feel for what to expect at a given hotel or Airbnb — whether it's more romantic or family-friendly, whether it caters more toward business or leisure travel, how conveniently it's located, and any other relevant perks, features, or cons I might want to know about before booking. I also love looking at the user-uploaded photos because they provide a realistic look at what to expect." — Hannah Loewentheil

21. And the absolute best way to save money while travelling is by getting friends together and sharing costs.

22. And most importantly, travel insurance is something you’re going to want to get.

No one likes to stress while on a holiday, and travel insurance offers you the peace of mind that if something goes wrong, you'll be OK. "It's an unnecessary stress that can be preempted by being prepared." — Louis Cole

23. Research your destination before you pack, so you know what you really need.

"For cold trips, I always take thermals, especially long Johns! For trips to hot destinations, I make sure I always have sunscreen and flip-flops. And be sure to grab mosquito repellent if you're going to tropical destinations." — Louis Cole

24. Pack a lightweight scarf for chilly planes.

You can use it as a little blanket or a pillow. Once you arrive at your destination, you have the perfect accessory to spice up any outfit.

25. "Buy a diaper bag to pack photography equipment. They're cheap, waterproof, and nobody steals a diaper bag."

26. to avoid tangling, thread a straw with your delicate necklaces..

27. Use a button to keep your earrings together.

28. contact containers are great for storing travel-size amounts of cosmetics..

Perfect for touch-ups!

29. Stash extra cash in an empty lip balm tube.

You've already filled your contact case with lip balm. So keeping money in the empty lip balm only makes sense.

30. "Travel with a a microfiber towel . It dries sooo much faster than a regular towel, and it folds up into nothing."

— u/hippiebanana

31. "Keep copies of important travel documents on your phone and in the cloud so you can always access them."

— u/-LifeOnHardMode

"Keeping a copy of your passport and ID in the cloud is super helpful if you ever get robbed or lose the original. It's much easier to get your stuff replaced if you can present everything to your embassy."

— u/slashthepowder

32. "For photo equipment or all kind of expensive stuff: put some duct tape on it. If it looks broken, nobody wants to steal it."

— u/p0mmesbude

33. Surely you already know that leaving your headphones loose in your bag is wrong — a paper clip is the way to go:

34. "Research how the locals dress. I’m a woman, and I have traveled alone many times. Every time I travel solo (especially when traveling to Europe), I look into how the locals dress so that I look like a local and don't stand out. If you look like you fit in and pay attention to your surroundings, no one will bother you."

— nmbeaumont0

35. "You only need to pack one power adapter and a powerboard. It's much cheaper than buying multiple adapters, and you end up with more sockets for all your electronics."

— u/PursuitOfSuccess

36. The right way to pack for long trips:

Spacesaver compression bags FTW.

37. "Pack a change of underwear, a toothbrush, some cash, and a charger in whatever bag will be on your body the entire time you're traveling."

"Bags do get lost, and having a fresh pair of underwear to change into can make all the difference."   — u/ameliabedelia99

38. Bring a mini bag of medicine, like Tums or aspirin, so in case you get sick, you won't feel too bad.

"Pack up a small first aid kit that includes pain meds, anti-diarrheal, laxatives, Benadryl, cold meds, Tums, sore throat treatment, bandages, disinfectant, and other things you'd want if you we're sick and didn't have easy access to them. Always keep this in your bag." — u/mdowney

39. Bring laundry detergent so you can rewear clothes and pack lighter.

"Carry the travel-size packets of laundry detergent (Tide makes good ones) so you can wash clothes in your bathroom sink. This works surprisingly well, particularly for undergarments and socks. And hotel laundry fees are insane. Avoid at all costs, unless your employer is footing the bill and won't reject the expense." — u/mdowney

40. Rolled clothing takes up less space than folded clothing.

41. To keep your clothes smelling fresh, pop a dryer sheet in your suitcase.

42. Carry a tote bag or laundry bag to separate your dirty clothes in your suitcase.

"Get a laundry sack, or just use a different compartment in your bag for dirty clothes. Nothing is quite as frustrating as that one guy in a hostel dorm room trying to be quiet while rummaging through his bag at 6:00 am. And it only gets worse once you realize his bag is completely organized by plastic bags. It wakes everyone up, and people instinctively hate you." — u/boom_shoes

43. "Slip-on shoes...Comfort is key because you'll walk way more when traveling. These make it way easier to fly through security...And make sure you wear socks if you'll be going through an airport. You don't want to walk barefoot through security!"

— u/mdowney

44. "Ear plugs. If you're traveling on a budget, you will probably be staying in some noisy located places. They really help."

— u/anonymous

45. Transport wine in your shoes.

Obviously for checked bags. But, you never really know when you'll need a bottle of wine, right?

46. Pack your dirty shoes in a shower cap.

47. "Get a credit card that includes airport lounge access. Flying will never be the same."

— u/marksjd

48. Pay attention to airline rules and know what you're signing up for.

"All airlines have different rules and regulations about what an economy or basic economy ticket gets you. I flew United Airlines on a recent trip to Los Angeles, and I foolishly booked a basic economy ticket. Only when I got to the airport did I realize I'd have to pay about $40 each way just to check my carry-on. I would have been better off just spending the extra money for a regular economy ticket. All airlines have different policies, so do your homework before you commit." — Hannah Loewentheil

49. To avoid jet lag, get plenty of exercise the day before you travel.

50. You don’t need to fly business class to fly comfortably. Exit row seats will suffice.

"It's worth paying a bit extra to get an exit row seat if you are really tall. The important thing is to feel comfortable on a long-distance flight so that you start your trip off well." — Louis Cole

51. Buying bottled water at the airport could not be more wrong. Take an empty bottle through security and get that H2O the right way:

52. The better way to use airport outlets? A power strip:

53. "If you're taking long flights, carry a travel-size pack of baby wipes. After you reach your destination, go into the restroom and wipe down. It's not a shower, but you'll be amazed how refreshed it makes you feel."

— u/Wizard_of_Ozymandias

54. Pack your plane snacks creatively.

55. Here's how to watch movies on the plane:

View this photo on Instagram

Try a  hands-free (rotating!) phone mount  to help you take advantage of the movies available online for those budget airlines without TVs in the back of the seats. It'll work on the plane *or* while you wait to board. 

56. Fashion a water bottle holder out of the inflight mag.

57. "never delete from your phone or throw away your boarding pass before you've actually entered your destination.".

"I've seen border security ask for them at the last minute." — u/giver_of_the_snark

"Your boarding pass is also very convenient if your bags don't arrive. The baggage agents can track your bag faster with the sticker on the back of your boarding pass." — u/KevinAtSeven

58. A travel pillow, earplugs, and an eye mask can really change your flight experience.

59. "Do the research and plan your meal times according to local customs. Many European restaurants close at 2 p.m. for a break and begin serving dinner later than when you might be used to in the States."

— u/plutoniumsalmon

60. Walk, walk, walk as much as possible.

"IMO, walking is the best mode of transportation while traveling. Sure, there are times when you have to hop on the subway or hail a cab, but for traveling short distances, there's no better way to experience a new place than by foot. I love nothing more than getting lost in a neighborhood, wandering around the streets, and stumbling upon places I otherwise would have never found: a local jewelry shop, a closet-sized art gallery, or an inviting wine bar. 

There's also something about walking that allows you to really experience the vibe of a city — the sleepy quietness of Seville on a Sunday morning; people picnicking, biking, and sunbathing on the banks of the Seine on a sunny day in Paris ; the smell of freshly baked tortillas and stewed meat at a food stall in La Merced Market in Mexico City. You miss these tiny little things that add up and comprise the soul of a city when you're speeding by in a taxi or underground on the metro." — Hannah Loewentheil

61. "Don't exchange money. Rather, use an ATM for the best exchange rate."

— u/ Raspberries-Are-Evil

62. Here's a foolproof way to fix that pesky gap between the hotel curtains.

63. "if you're traveling throughout europe, buy an interrail pass. it's basically a continent-wide train ticket. not only is it the best way to travel, but you also meet all sorts of people.".

— u/ wheepete

64. "Map out some activities, but leave the majority of your trip unplanned. Whenever I travel, I choose two must-do activities beforehand, then leave the rest of the trip unplanned. I just walk around and see what I discover."

"It helps with burnout because I can rest when my body needs to without worrying about missing my next scheduled activity."

65. "If your plans change and you need to cancel your hotel reservation against the hotel's cancellation policy, don't call and cancel. Instead, call the hotel and move your reservation to the following week — because many hotels will allow you to change a reservation without issue. Then, call a few hours later and cancel your 'new' reservation."

— u/ Peacockblue11

66. "Hotel lobbies have great bathrooms. Find a luxury hotel and go to the bar, order an iced tea or a Coke, and then you can use a nice bathroom. Plus, most also have free Wi-Fi these days as well."

— u/Raspberries-Are-Evil

67. "Don't just choose a restaurant based on a nice appearance. Eat where the locals eat or where you see people forming long lines."

— Hannah Loewentheil

68. Keep your toothbrush head from resting on the hotel bathroom counter (like a monster) with this simple travel hack:

Enter: the peg method, otherwise known as the RIGHT method to store your toothbrush.

69. "Buy a $20 phone calling card in case you get stuck somewhere and don't have money or phone. Keep this away from your wallet and somewhere that it's least likely to disappear."

70. "Instead of buying expensive international roaming and data from your cell provider, just buy a cheap prepaid rechargeable SIM card in whatever country you need service."

"Having access to your phone and to data makes for a fun traveling experience, since you can keep in touch with people and also post photos, but also use GPS and book Uber/Lyft rides, which are often more convenient and usually cheaper than taxis."

— u/granitehoncho

71. Scams are easily avoidable if you don’t put yourself in vulnerable positions.

"Be vigilant and patient when you're negotiating, so you know exactly what's included in the deal or service." — Louis Cole , travel vlogger 

72. "Street food can be amazing, but do your research about where it's safe to eat first. There have been times when we were warned against eating the street food, and those who ate it anyway got pretty ill."

—u/ m4d4e02be6

73. Picnic, picnic, picnic.

"Offer me the choice between a fancy lunch and a good old fashioned picnic, and I'll just about always choose the latter. There's nothing I love more than browsing through a local farmer's market in a new city and grabbing some ingredients for a picnic. This cheese-filled al fresco lunch with an Eiffel Tower view cost me about €15, and it was one of the most memorable meals of my trip." — Hannah Loewentheil

74. And being flexible and ready to adapt is one of the most important parts of travelling.

"When you travel, things don't always go according to plan. You have to be open to change and new routes because 'that's where the best adventures happen.'" 

— Louis Cole

75. Immerse yourself in the culture by hiring a guide, signing up for a local experience, or even doing a free walking tour.

"One benefit of using a travel agent is that they can often connect you to a local guide, but by doing a little legwork, you can easily find a local expert to show you the ropes. Some people might prefer to explore on their own while traveling, but I always find that I get a deeper feel for a destination by joining a tour, hiring a guide, or signing up for a group experience. 

For example, in Hong Kong, I asked my hotel to introduce me to a local guide who could show me around the many open-air markets and street food stalls; in Fès, I took a half-day tour around the Medina with a man who taught me how to haggle and identify the authentic vendors selling everything from leather to soap; in Kyoto, I took a fish-butchering and sashimi-making class that turned out to be a way larger lens into Japanese culture." — Hannah Loewentheil

This article contains content from Hannah Loewentheil, Michelle Rennex, and Louise Khong. It was compiled by Kelly Rissman.

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19 Packing Tips Frequent Travelers Swear By

Packing for a trip may not be your idea of a fun time. It’s often tedious and stressful—but it really doesn’t have to be that bad. With a handful of great packing tips, you’ll learn how to pack in a way that makes your travel experience better, not worse. And who better to turn to for those tips than frequent travelers who have had their fair share of packing fails and wins?

I personally learned the hard way that traveling with excessive luggage can really weigh you down (literally) whether you’re flying or traveling by train or bus. I used to travel while holding a full-time job, so I only took three- to four-day trips. When I first transitioned to traveling for longer periods, I brought a 75-pound bag on a month-long trip to Europe only to find myself deeply regretting the decision when I had to lug it up several flights of stairs in old buildings with no elevators. You can bet I never made that mistake again, and now I make sure I can easily carry anything I pack.

There’s also the fact that luggage is expensive if you’re flying. Airlines seem to be charging more and more for checked bags, and some fare options can get you a great price but don’t allow even a carry-on. Learning how to pack efficiently can save you some serious cash.

As the saying goes, when packing for a trip, it’s best to take half the luggage and double the money. Of course, that’s easier said than done—especially for anyone who wants to look fashionable on a long-awaited vacation.

To help you pack with ease, here are 19 clever packing tips that frequent flyers and travel experts (including yours truly) swear by. First things first, though: Whether you’re looking for air travel packing tips, packing tips for international travel or domestic travel, or just ideas to use for a quick weekend getaway , it’s essential to travel as safely as possible with COVID-19 in mind. Here’s more information about the safest way to travel right now , including being fully vaccinated, masking up when recommended (like in crowded indoor venues), reading up on travel restrictions , and more. Now, on to those packing tips!

1. Bundle your outfits.

“We find it’s easier to pack outfits together,” Martha Villaroman, family travel blogger of Go Places With Kids and mom of three, tells SELF. “For example, roll your shirt, pants, underwear, and socks together to form one bundle. Then in the morning, you can quickly grab the bundle of clothes that you need.” Bonus: Rolling your clothes prevents wrinkles and allows you to easily identify items that you’ve packed.

2. Use packing cubes.

Packing cubes ( $25, Amazon ) help compress and separate your clothing and are your best ally for efficient suitcase packing. Organize cube contents by day according to your itinerary or by types of clothing. This helps keep your suitcase neat and keeps you from having to unfold and displace everything to locate one outfit. If you’re traveling with vintage or weather-sensitive clothing, consider a vacuum-sealed compression bag to protect your clothes during transit.

3. Opt for as many wrinkle-proof fabrics as possible.

“Our favorite and easiest packing tip for travel is to bring nonwrinkle clothing that doesn’t arrive all creased,” Mar Pages, cofounder of Solo Female Travelers Tours , tells SELF. “Consider these fabrics the next time you are shopping or packing for a trip: polyester, denim, wool, knits, spandex, and lyocell. Avoid 100% linen or linen-cotton blends, which are more wrinkle-prone.” 

4. Buy solid toiletries.

“Liquids always take up the most space and tend to spill too,” Lavinia D’Sousa of Continent Hop tells SELF. They’re also a little annoying to pack if you’re only checking a bag and need everything to be TSA-compliant. D’Sousa’s solution? Opting for solid shampoo bars and soaps instead. You can buy solid perfume, makeup remover, bug balm, sunscreen, and even toothpaste tabs. If you are carrying liquids, try placing plastic wrap under the caps to minimize leaks.

5. Make your clothing multitask.

One of the most essential travel tips for packing light is to bring items that have multiple purposes. “The scarf or stole is the most versatile item you can carry,” D’Sousa says. “It can act as a sarong, a wrap for all your dirty clothes if needed, and you can wear it around your shoulders when covering up to visit a [religious location].” In general, bringing clothing items that you can wear for multiple occasions or mix and match with other items to create new outfits is a smart way to pack efficiently. The same concept applies to your hair tools and skin-care products—think: a 2-in-1 hair straightener and curler, a tint that can be used for blush and lipstick, and a soap that doubles as shaving cream.

6. Choose a clothing color scheme.

“As a full-time traveler with limited wardrobe space, I create a capsule wardrobe with items that effortlessly go together,” YouTuber Alina McLeod tells SELF. “That means choosing neutrals with one or two pops of color.” When everything coordinates, it’s easy to layer when you move between different places and changing weather. “This allows me to utilize all the items I bring instead of having four or five random outfits that don’t really mix,” McLeod adds.

7. Use the pillowcase hack.

Nina Ragusa of Where in the World Is Nina recommends a hack that has gained TikTok notoriety this year . Grab two pillowcases: one that zippers and one that doesn’t, she suggests. “Stuff clothes in the zippered pillowcase, then cover it with the regular pillowcase. Now you have more room in your bag for other items, you’ve got a pillow to sleep with on your flight, and you got to bring those 10 extra outfits you swear you’re actually going to wear.” This hack is great because most airlines don’t count a pillow as a carry-on, Ragusa explains.

8. Make a virtual packing list you can actually check off.

Of course you know a packing list might be helpful. But instead of one you simply look at and mentally cross off, make sure no essential travel item is left behind by preparing a packing list to actually cross off as you load your suitcase. Today, several apps make this easy, with premade themes and templates for activities like road trips or hiking. Popular apps include PackPoint , Packing Pro , and PackTeo .

9. Keep a toiletry go bag.

“Our packing tip is amazingly simple yet saves tons of time every time we pack,” Mikkel Woodruff of Sometimes Home tells SELF. “Each of us has a separate toiletries bag with travel-size products—including things like a travel toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, eye drops, etc.—that’s always ready to pack in a travel backpack or our luggage.

“While we need to pack our clothes for each trip, we never need to spend time packing our toiletries,” Woodruff says. “The secret is to replace anything that needs replenishing as soon as you return from a trip.”

10. Wear your bulkiest clothing in transit.

Instead of packing your coat inside your bag and letting it eat up precious space and weight, wear it on the plane. You can usually make room for it in the overhead bin and use the pockets for heavy but valuable items like cameras or backup batteries. 

It’s a good idea to wear items you want to take along like sneakers or boots as well. Best-case scenario, they have those foldable slippers on your flight (a common amenity on long-haul international flights) so you can let your feet breathe a bit on-board. If you’re on a shorter flight sans free slippers, wear a pair of thick socks that will keep your feet comfy when you kick off your shoes. (But please, keep your shoeless feet to yourself—no stacking them on the back of the armrest for the passenger in front of you!)

11. Bring a foldable day pack.

Rachel Posey of Unparalleled Dimensions recommends bringing a collapsible day pack that folds up small so that it fits easily into your luggage. “Running around a new city is easy with a small, lightweight bag. These weigh almost nothing and take up zero space in your luggage,” Posey tells SELF. Notably, some museums and attractions don’t allow large backpacks, so it’s good to have something small and easily portable to carry just the essentials that you need for a day of exploring.

12. Make your jewelry tangle-free.

“Use press-and-seal wrap for your jewelry so it doesn’t get tangled,” suggests Abigail Schaffer of EF Ultimate Break . “In the alternative, use one of those seven-day pill containers to separate jewelry items so they don’t tangle together.” This is an affordable and lightweight solution.

13. Do laundry on your trip.

Another tried and true tip from Schaffer is to plan to do laundry on your trip. It’s kind of a must for trips longer than two weeks, as it’s hard to pack a separate outfit for each day beyond that. Depending on where you’re traveling and staying, it might be easy to visit a laundromat or get laundry done at a hotel, but if not, a good ol’ hand washing will do the trick. Schaffer recommends bringing a small amount of laundry detergent so you can do a quick load in the sink if need be. See if you can find a leaf or solid version, like these detergent sheets from Earth Breeze ( $15, Amazon ).

14. Keep your bag smelling fresh.

Want to keep your luggage smelling fresh throughout your trip? Ben Wallington, CEO of Designerwear and frequent international traveler, suggests adding a small cedar chip, a sprig of lavender, or even cinnamon sticks to keep your luggage smelling clean and fresh. Traveling to a humid destination? “If you add a small muslin bag of rice to your luggage when traveling to a humid destination, it will absorb the moisture and keep your clothes fresh,” he says.

15. Use socks to cushion your hats and heels.

“To protect a structured hat from getting ruined en route, pack it in your carry-on suitcase and stuff scarves, socks, and other soft clothing items both in and around it to reinforce its shape. Works like a charm!” Rachel Jean-Frichau of Rachel Off Duty tells SELF. Do the same with heels and collared shirts to keep them from losing their shape or getting crushed in your luggage.

16. Wrap your shoes in shower caps.

You know those disposable shower caps that are often in hotel bathrooms? They’re of course meant for protecting your hair from water, but they have a secret dual purpose: sparing your clothing from dirt or mud on the bottom of your shoes. Simply wrap each shoe in a shower cap before putting it back in your bag or suitcase to keep everything else clean.

17. Pack a spare outfit in your carry-on.

On the off chance your checked bag gets delayed or lost, you’re going to want clean clothes to change into when you get to your hotel. Always keep fresh underwear, one day’s outfit, and sleepwear in your carry-on bag, just in case. On that note, make room for any other essentials—like medicine, valuable technology, or anything that’s irreplaceable—in your carry-on. It’s good to have peace of mind just in case.

18. Keep track of your stuff with photos.

Jason Metz, writer and travel insurance expert at Forbes Advisor , recommends taking photos of what you pack before you go. “This can save time if your baggage is lost and you need to file a travel insurance claim. If you want to get high-tech and track your belongings, consider a device like an Apple AirTag or Samsung SmartTag,” Metz tells SELF. Additionally, make note of where you put the things you’ll need to get home, like your keys or parking ticket, so you can easily find them when you return.

19. Maximize the packing potential of your personal item.

You’re allowed a carry-on bag and a personal item on most economy flights, and many airlines now offer a pared-back basic economy fare that only lets you bring a small personal item. Make that personal item a roomy backpack or duffel bag to maximize your space. Pack all your flight essentials in that bag, from travel headphones to compression socks to sleep masks and even sanitizing wipes so you can wipe down your seat, tray table, and window if need be.

• 22 Things Frequent Travelers Say You Need for Road Trips
• 19 Excellent Weekender Bags for Last-Minute Getaway Trips
• An Introvert’s Survival Guide to Traveling With a Group of People

SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.

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60 Travel Packing Tips from the Experts

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I am excited to share these travel packing tips with you! This is the collaborative effort of over 50 of the best travel bloggers in the business! From travel wardrobe basics to practical tools and ideas, these expert packing tips reveal a treasure trove of information sure to make your trip planning easier. Pack light and pack smart!

60 Travel Packing Tips

Sleep Mask by Bedtime Bliss

Packing Tips for Comfort on Flights

If you travel regularly, keep the basics in your backpack . It saves a lot of time! Don’t forget earplugs, a light scarf, medicines, a sleeping mask, and little scissors! A World to Travel

Bring lip balm, ear plugs, a notepad, and panty liners for long flights . The liners help prevent yeast infections and doubles the life of your underwear.  Green Global Travel

My friend From Zurich shares her top packing tips: Bring a scarf because they are so multifunctional! You can use it if it’s cold, if you need to cover up, to sit on, and more. On plane trips, I must have: a small toiletry bag with eye drops, moisturizer, sanitizer, aspirin, and ear plugs. The ear plugs can block out loud snorers in dorms.

If you’re facing an upcoming trip with an extremely long travel time, our readers share their best tips on how to survive long flights !

Packing Cubes

Packing Tips for Travel Organizers & Travel Bags

Use colored packing cubes  to organize your clothes. That way, you can pull out the “shirts” bag quickly without searching and dumping out an entire backpack. Around the World in 80 Jobs

Don’t bother with those fancy, expensive travel towels . Instead, get a sarong. It’s cheap and multi-use: use it as a wrap, lay it out for picnics or sunbathing, or dry off with it. They’re super light and dry quickly, even in humid places. For packing, invest in packing cubes ! They make packing and living out of a suitcase/backpack more organized and much easier. It’s one of my best packing tips.  1 Dad 1 Kid

Bring a range of see-through plastic bags with you. They are useful for keeping dirty or wet clothes separate from clean clothes, replacing lost cosmetics bags, storing souvenirs, keeping dirty shoes contained, and just generally keeping your backpack organized without needing to empty it every time you want to find something. Plastic bags are very useful if you like to compartmentalize, like I do. Vicky Flip Flop Travels

Always pack a few plastic baggies in different sizes. They are great for swiping food for lunch from the buffet breakfast or for saving the seashells your child collected. As a bonus, bring a small, collapsible cooler with a baggie filled with ice from the hotel to keep your lunch cold or to refrigerate something you pick up from the store for later. There and Back Again Travel

Always carry a huge garbage bag (clean, of course!) in your backpack’s top pocket. You never know when you’ll need to protect your backpack from a downpour or from wandering hands in your hostel.  Solitary Wanderer

My best advice when it comes to packing: ziplocs! I keep everything in ziploc bags–from toothpaste to shampoo to sunblock–to prevent them from damaging my clothes or electronics. It’s a cheap and easy solution to make sure your face cream doesn’t stain your favorite jeans! Beatrice BP

I put together a  five-part YouTube series  showing you the different methods to use packing cubes . If you use  this  specific packing strategy, they can also compress your belongings and travel capsule wardrobe . This is the secret to traveling carryon only!

Compression Sack

I pack my daily supplements and vitamins in small ziploc bags to reduce bottle bulk. Geogypsy Traveler

It’s one of the often-repeated packing tips but seriously– a bunch of bags to separate out your clothes will prove invaluable. Compression sacks, packing cubes , or just stuff sacks–use them to keep things organized and smush clothes into a smaller bundle. Just make sure they’re not plastic! Chasing the Wild

Make sure all your liquid items are in bags or separated from the rest of your things. That way, if one of the bottles gets damaged, it won’t get all over your entire wardrobe! The Kay Days

Instead of plastic bags, use cloth hotel laundry bags for storage. They are reusable, washable, and don’t make that annoying rustling sound if you find yourself in a hostel in the middle of the night searching for something. Man on the Lam

Use compression bags to pack your clothes . Not only do they save space in your bag, but they also double as waterproofing for valuables when you’re out exploring.  Flip Flops Abroad

Space bags are great, but don’t forget you’ll need to go through that process every  time you open your bag. Is it worth it? It’s One World Travel

Here’s the  best packing organizers  for travel!

Delsey Helium Aero Carry On Luggage

Travel Packing Tips and Tricks

Roll stuff, don’t fold it; it seems to take up less space, in my experience. Also, leave at least half of what you were going to take behind; you’re not going to need it. You won’t believe me and you’ll take it anyway, because everyone does, at least the first few times. Finding the Universe

I always roll my clothes because it takes up less space and makes them less wrinkly. I also bring an extra pair of contact lenses, no matter how short the trip. I pack my glasses and a pair of underwear in my carryon in case of delayed luggage. Monkeys and Mountains

Pack elastic bracelets as they can double as hairbands and can be used to hold small items together. Also, I’ve never regretted taking packs of mini tissues. Southwest Compass

I like to bring a few sheets of tissue paper along. I use it to roll up anything that is likely to get wrinkled. Works great. Bond Girl Photos

Use a suitcase where you can strap your clothes down tightly. It works like an iron.  Boomeresque

Read these tips on packing cubes vs packing folders and find out what’s the best for you!

Shop Sizes XS-4X:  J.Jill

Packing Tips for Fashionistas

Packing light provides you and your trip flexibility . Therefore, I pack mostly black or blue jeans and clothes and provide color with scarves and accessories. I am also a confirmed “roller”. Family Travel

Bring the jeans, leave the heels. Make sure you bring the right bras. When you’re stacked, it can be a real challenge to make sure the girls are locked and lovely. My fave combo is one everyday bra, one sexy bra, and one sports bra. A bunch of packing tips in one shot!  It’s One World Travel

If you love your jeans, just pack them. No matter what else someone tells you—they take too long to dry, they smell bad wet, they are heavy—yes, they are all of those things…but they are also something you’ll likely wear every day on the road, just like at home. Oh, and use  packing cubes ! A Little Adrift

Our readers voted for the best black travel pants and these were their favorite styles!

Ruched Body-Con Tank Dress

Think twice about the hiking boots. Not only are they bulky and heavy, but I find that even when I’ve packed them in the past, I’ve felt more comfortable wearing a pair of Toms or Chucks. Unless you’re thinking about some serious hiking, you can get away with a much lighter (and more fashionable) shoe like this one .  That Backpacker

Bring a black or brown dress and tops with you. I call it the “safe” colors. You can wear them anytime, anywhere. Bringing one stiletto or high-heeled shoe helps, especially if you need to attend a formal event. In terms of packing, bring cotton tops and if you’re going to a tropical country, avoid bulky clothes. Senyorita

Be conservative with shoes. Even shoes that you normally consider comfortable may pinch your feet or give you blisters. Go for the most comfortable yet neutral shoes you can find, and make sure they’re broken in. Bring cuter shoes for short outings or evenings. This is My Happiness

Wherever you are going and in whatever climate, always, always have a posh frock and heels in case you need to dress up.  Escape Artistes

.Here’s the most comfortable and cute walking shoes for travel!

Plaid Blanket

No matter the climate I’m going to, I always travel with at least one scarf . It takes up virtually no room, and yet can have so many uses. A scarf can dress up a boring travel outfit, give you a bit of warmth in chilly locales, help you cover up in conservative destinations, and can even serve as a pillow or sarong in a pinch.  Dangerous Business

One of my top packing tips is to resist last minute urges to pack extras (like extra t-shirts). Allow 30 minutes extra time before you leave for the airport to edit what you’ve put in your bag. Aim to take at least three items out.  30 Traveler

I pack lots of scarves. They use practically zero room in a suitcase and are so versatile. They allow me to create multiple outfits from the same top and bottom by providing different colors and textures, and they also can serve as protection against the cold or sun. I have used a scarf as a picnic blanket and as something soft (or protective) to sit on. Also, I pick up scarves wherever I go so it turns into a travel moment, too! Misadventures with Andi

A little black dress, cute flats, and a shawl go a long way.  Nomadic Chick

Here are eight different ways to wear a scarf when you travel!

The Chrysalis Cardi

Lay out all the clothes you intend to take …then put half of them away! I’ve never regretted not taking any piece of clothing on a trip but I have regretted packing too much. Take double the amount of underwear that you think you’ll need. A girl can never have too many pairs of clean knickers.  Flashpacker Family

When in Asia, always travel with a scarf. It’s perfect for places that use a bit too much air conditioning (you can throw it over your shoulders) or wear it as a skirt if your clothing isn’t appropriate for temples. A scarf always makes clothing look a bit more put together. Asia Travel Tales

Bring versatile clothing that you can reuse in several outfits. I especially love wrap dresses that you can change from one-shouldered to halter to strapless and more!  Christine in Spain

Want to look good while you travel? Bring the same clothes and styles you love at home  as long as they’re reasonable and don’t take much space. I always travel with a skinny tie and skinny jeans (hipster essentials) because you never know when you’ll want to look good—even when abroad.  Travels of Adam

Find out exactly why these two piece sets are the perfect addition to any travel wardrobe!

Apple iPad Mini 4

Packing Tips for Families

One tip that’s probably been mentioned a lot, but I live by, is this: lots of layering options for the kids reduces the need to pack lots of warm clothes. By layering, it’s easy to modify their level of warmth. Having multiple short sleeve and long sleeve t-shirts are more space-friendly than carrying extra jackets, for example. Little Aussie Travellers

Your kids, especially toddlers, will ALWAYS need less than you think they will, especially when it comes to toys. An iPad or tablet plus a very small bag of favorite toys can get you to your destination, while the actual place you are visiting is often entertainment enough. With so many new sights and sounds to explore, you’ll find your toddler ditching that bag of cars you packed in exchange for every stick, rock, and leaf along the way. Walking on Travels

We are a family of four. When we pack, we roll everything (except jeans and thick pants); it does give you more space. The Q Family Adventures

Flying with a baby ? Don’t stress! We have some awesome tips from a jetsetting mom.

Trunki Original Kids Ride-On Suitcase and Carry-On Luggage

Traveling as a family of four, we use vacuum-sealed, airtight, and waterproof space bags for each individual. They compress clothes by squeezing the air out, they protect fabric from spills, and they are an easy way to separate everyone’s belongings. They’re also great for bulky items like sweaters and ski gear for winter trips. The World is a Book

My best packing tips for families: make the kids pack and carry their own stuff. Whatever tempting cool clothing they want to buy along the way, they know they have to carry. This saves mom’s and dad’s backs. Also, dark fabric shows fewer stains, needs less washing, and shows less wear.  The Nomadic Family

One of my best pet travel packing tips is to always bring your dog’s blankets and pillows and a few toys that smell like home. It keeps them calm in the car and lets them have a piece of home when sleeping in a different hotel every night. It’s the best way to have well-behaved, well-traveled pets. The Constant Rambler

Read this packing list for toddlers and babies  to make traveling with a family a breeze!

Titanium Spork

Packing Tips for Everyone

Leave space in your backpack or suitcase. Use the extra room for souvenirs and purchases you make during travel. Awe Inclusive

When you’re taking a short trip,  pack your old underwear and throw it away after you wear it. I also take clothing I’m tired of and leave it behind, too. I pack underwear and jewelry in my shoes. Edgy June Travels

Pack a spork to make your street food experiences easier and more enjoyable. Travel Gear for Men

Don’t forget the duct tape. You’ll find a million and one uses for it. My Itchy Travel Feet

Here’s a twist on an old standby in terms of packing tips: 3M has come up with a new type of  Scotch Transparent Duct Tape . It comes in various strengths, but it is not yet available in convenient mini-rolls. Savvy Traveling

Take a look at these 25 random travel necessities and find out if they make sense for your next trip!

Waterproof Dry Bag

Besides the normal things like clothing and body products, I take a traveling natural health kit. One of the key ingredients is essential oils: they’re great for natural first-aid, to ward off germs and bacteria, and even for a bit of scent (smaller than any perfume bottle). I use lemon oil as my hand sanitizer wherever I go. It’s easier to carry and better smelling than most products on the market. Santa Fe Travelers

I always have a thread and needle.  It’s one of the more classic packing tips. Not only can you patch up your clothing, you can exchange your services for free beer. Going Nomadic

The best day bag for travel is a dry bag like this one that can protect and store your valuables! We Heart Scuba Diving

String and cable ties –it’s unbelievable how many times they’ve come in handy! Magnificent Potato

I always pack a hypoallergenic pillow case (one that zips) to cover gross pillows, which often contain dust mites. And, of course, I pack a sleep sheet (some call it a “sack”) to protect me from bed linens I’d rather not touch.  Chicky Bus

Buy a universal adaptor rather than one suited only for the country you’re visiting. It saves money in the long run and gives you more travel flexibility (especially during airport layovers). Inside the Travel Lab

I always carry earplugs and a headlamp. You never know when you will need them. Ordinary Traveler

Find out our top 10 travel essentials for backpackers !

Osprey Packs Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack

I keep a “quick fix” kit in my cabinet and grab it for trips. It contains earplugs, a sleep mask, lip balm, ibuprofen, and extra contact lenses. I also bring flavored tea bags to relax with a cup of tea no matter where I am. As for clothing packing tips, I keep it simple with lots of black. It goes with everything and is difficult to stain!  Spanish Sabores

Buy a backpack that isn’t a top loader. Backpacks like the Berghaus Jalan and the Osprey Farpoint zip most of the way around and open like a suitcase, which makes getting to your stuff a lot easier! Gap Year Escape

Keep a list of all the items you need for a vacation  overseas or a weekend trip, as each type of trip requires different things to pack, especially electronics– chargers, lenses, memory cards, etc. A list means it’s less likely to be forgotten. Kiwi Travel Writer

The best item I’ve found is a  travel clothesline . If you’ll be hand-washing your clothes while traveling, it’s super convenient. SKJ Travel

Because we at Green Global Travel often venture to off-the-beaten-path destinations, it’s crucial that we pack light and carry clothes that can be washed and dried very easily. Green Global Travel

Have lip balm and your Speedo if you’re traveling in Europe. And always pack light is one of the golden packing tips! Dream Euro Trip

Want the ultimate guides for packing light? Read our Pack Light Stylishly book to get started and see our packing tips, and take our master class if you’re ready to Stop Overpacking !

A giant thank you to all the travel bloggers who shared their packing tips in this post!

If you have any travel packing tips to share, please add them in the comments below!

For more packing tips, please read:

• 75 Packing Tips that Will Make Your Travels So Much Easier
• This Video Will Change the Way You Pack 
• Packing Lists for (Almost) Every Destination
• Think Traveling Carry-on is Impossible? Read this

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Hope you liked this post on travel packing tips from the expert. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

72 comments.

That’s quite an interesting article Alex, and I find it really useful, As a corporate traveller, packing things is literally hectic work, and I am going to follow your tips for my upcoming travels. Hope this parking trick could save some space.

Hi Gloria, thank you for your feedback, glad that you found the article helpful! Safe travels! 🙂

I found all the tips very useful, I use some of them. I would like to add a few I use. Packing bijoux jewelry, I pass necklaces through a straw to prevent tangling, put rings and earrings seperately in small ziplocks then all together in a small cosmetic pouch and into my suitcase. For expensive jewelery I put it in a small cufflink box which accomodates two diamond rings, a medium sized locket and a brooch. This protects them from being compressed. Then I carry it in my handbag in a small zippered compartment. Hope this may help somebody.

Hi, thank you so much for your comment! Thank you for sharing you great tips 🙂

That’s quite an interesting article Shari Melillo, and I find it really useful, As a corporate traveller, packing things is literally hectic work, and I am going to follow your tips for my upcoming travels. Hope this packing trick could save some space on air travel

Tips to save space in your suitcase

Roll the clothes instead of folding them. You can save your space and carry some extra items such as belt and pair of extra socks in your baggage.

Wear as much as you can rather than packing it. This doesn’t sound cool but it is one of the best trick. Wear extra clothes inside your over coat and later remove them once you are on your sear after boarding the flight. A little extra layer of clothes on your body will give you a lot of free space in your bag. Now you have some extra space in your suitcase to put some more items.

You can also use your pockets to hold small things rather than putting them in your luggage. You can even fold small clothing items and place them in large pockets of a jacket or cargo pants.

I just read this and must say, I should have done so a few weeks earlier 🙁

One thing I found interesting lately is to use tools for my packing. whattopackforatrip.com is one example but there are a few more. Can you do something like this too 🙂

Thanks for one marvelous posting! I enjoyed reading it, you are a great Writer. Keep up the wonderful works on. I’ve added you to my blogroll as well.

Glad seeing this kind of tips, make sure to bring a handy soap, roadeavour scented soap sheets is a must have!

I also think packing with capsule wardobe principles is also very effective.

Glad you agree! All of our packing lists are based on a capsule wardrobe: https://travelfashiongirl.com/packing-lists/

Great tips! I agree that rolling your clothes make them take up less space.

Thanks Andy!

Like one of your correspondents above said – practice pack and pitch. Any old clothes that are serviceable but may have a spot or are heavily worn get packed and pitched along the way. You can always tie a scarf so it covers a spot and you’re never going to see these people again. Your pitch will equal your stuff purchased. And stuff left in Peru, mark it trash bastuda, doesn’t worm its way back into your closet. I also just purchased an Elizabeth and Clarke unstainable tshirt and can’t wait to see if they work well.

Great tips! Thanks Marilyn!

when staying in a hotel, just below the peephole in the door, there is usually a sign describing protocol for emergencies. next to this sign is (usually) a card inserted with room prices, check-out times, etc. pull this card halfway out and use it to cover the peephole for privacy. this gave me peace of mind when my young daughter and I traveled alone. an alternative would be to cover the peephole with a small piece of blue painter’s tape. I also locked and bolted the door and placed the (empty) plastic trash can a few inches from the door before we went to bed. this would give us valuable seconds if someone tried to enter our room while we were asleep!

Thank you for your post. space while helping your bras maintain their shape by stacking them on on top of each other. You can even store you underwear inside of the cups.

Great tip Kyla!! Thanks for sharing!

A portable speaker is a great item to take with you. You can listen to music anywhere and even charge your phone with them.

That’s a great tip!

I always (always!) use a packing list for every trip and just tweak it each time based on where, when & how long the trip is. It’s divided into four sections.

Section 1 is for things I might need to have at the ready like passports, reservation paperwork, phone charger, antibacterial wipes, etc. This is basically my travel bag list.

Section 2 is for toiletries and rarely changes.

Section 3 is for planning outfits. I break it down with the itinerary for each day and what the expected weather will be, and then pre-plan out each outfit for each day/event, including belts, shoes and accessories. Keeping to this strict plan helps me from over-packing!

The fourth and final section is for anything extra, like a hat, gloves, undies, bras, etc. Also included in this section are little extras like small hand fans for hot & humid climates, a small baggie for the hotel remote control (one of the germiest things in your room), etc.

Great suggestions Pollyana! Thank you so much for sharing your method! Sounds like you’ve got packing down! Happy travels!

Traveling is a fun activity but doing it repeatedly can eventually tire a traveler down. Because of this, many frequent travelers have realized the importance of preparing luggage that allows one to carry necessary travel items without compromising comfort. Much of the challenges come from identifying the trip, choosing and prioritizing the items that will be brought according to the trip, and finding the right packing technique to ensure that the luggage that will accompany the traveler will not cause any discomfort.

Thanks for your message Lecitia! Great tips! Comfort is definitely most important when selecting what to bring and what luggage to bring it in. Thanks for reading! Safe travels!

So many people recommend rolling clothes instead of folding, and I’ve even tried the “military” style you can learn on YouTube videos. However, I still find correct folding (eg, the KonMari method) makes my suitcase so much more calm and organized. And fewer wrinkles.

It’s great that you’ve found the way that works best for you! Keep packing smart 🙂

My Husband and I are leaving for 90 days travel and I am keeping it to one roller thanks to a lot of the tips here.

Wow thank you Piccola 🙂 Have a wonderful journey!

I like to carry a backpack on the plane for all my stuff. Instead of dealing with a purse AND a backpack, I just put my necessary purse contents (wallet, smartphone, meds, etc.) in the backpack and pack my purse in my suitcase.

Perfect strategy!

I always bring a few wooden clothespins. I need the room very dark to sleep and the clothespins sometimes are perfect to hold a drape together. Of course they can be used in the obvious ways hand clothes to dry off a hangar or towel rack.

good tip! I’ve met travelers with plastic ones but wooden plastic it’s all the same 🙂

I try to lay out everything I want to pack, including cosmetic bag, etc., then live with it, at home, for the amount of time I’m going to be gone. Anything that doesn’t get used doesn’t go in the suitcase, and it’s an easy way to see if everything fits together. Takes discipline to do this, but it’s a good reality check.

That is dedication but if you do it once, you can keep reusing the same things for future trips. Great tip!

Alex, can you give me few tips regarding packing fine jewelry on business trip

great timing! have an article publishing on July 9th with your answer – stay tuned!

Great tips from everyone this is really going to help me this summer other thing when you make a list make sure you check off the important things first like start off with carry on luggage essentials any way this is my favorite site to go to when I’m having trouble packing oh almost forgot make your luggage noticble by putting ribbons and shoelaces so that way you would not have to worry when you get to the airport

I am not so sure if I shared this compilation on my page before, but I’m glad to see my tips and advice on this post now 😛

When going on a vacation where swimming is involved, I pack a lightweight, cheap or well used towel. Then, if I want to swim after the noon checkout time, I give away the wet towel at the end of the day.

Another useful and small, lightweight item is a little sponge (the little pink, yellow or green ones). They are incredibly useful, take almost zero room, and save towels if the floor gets wet.

I’ve been looking everywhere for a blog like this… finally 🙂

Glad you found it!

Great list – I thought I’d add that I always travel with a black and a grey tank top. They are perfect for layering if you are cold, sleeping in OR for modesty.

I agree, great to have some basics. Thanks!

Awesome tips! I am leaving for London on Wednesday for two weeks with my school, and these tips will help me pack and lower my anxiety over it! (: Thanks so much for this blog post, I really appreciate it! (:

Thanks Kelly! Glad to help 🙂

You also might find this post helpful: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-pack-for-london-on-your-trip-to-the-united-kingdom/

Loads of helpful stuff there – thanks. Glad to know that I am amongst fellow rollers and ziplockers!

Thanks Bernie! Rolling is the way to go 🙂

Thanks for including my duct tape tip. I’ll be linking to this list in our February newsletter.

Thanks Donna! Duct tape has endless uses – I especially like to use it to help prop up the massive universal adapters/converters into the outlet. Thanks again!

I am a first time visitor. I enjoyed your blog some great tips.

Thank you 🙂

What a great round-up post! Bookmarking this and will be using a few of these tips for the next trip. Thanks for including my tip 🙂

Thanks! Thanks for the tip 🙂

This is the best post on packing I’ve seen! (and not just cuz I got a nod, either) I especially love the last point made: “pack clothing you feel good wearing”

Thanks Laura! I hope I can get enough tips to make it to 100 🙂 high goals!

Thanks for including my tips! A bunch of great advice here from others.

Thanks Talon! What color is your sarong of choice? 🙂

Brilliant list! Thanks for including my tip!

Thanks Bethany and also for sharing your tip 🙂

I love these tips! I find an iphone invaluble for all of the language apps and google!

Thanks Stephanie. Hopefully you could use a few for your upcoming trip 🙂

Same here! Thanks and congrats for the article! 🙂

Thanks again! Great collaboration 🙂

Thanks for featuring my tip here, I love seeing what all the different range of travelers feel is important when packing! 🙂

Thanks for contributing Shannon! Great tips from everyone 🙂

Great tips! I have already bookmarked this for future reference. Thanks for including mine 🙂

Thank you! No matter how experienced you are, it’s still possible to pick up new tricks from others 🙂

I enjoyed reading your post full of great tips. Thanks for including mine. I’ve already tweeted your post.

Thanks Lisa! I’m happy with the turn out 🙂

So many great packing tips from knowledgeable travelers! Thanks for including mine 🙂

Thank you so much for contributing! 🙂

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How much should I tip when I travel?

Editor's Note

Even the most seasoned travelers may find tipping while traveling to be complicated and stressful.

After all, most of us want to thank the right people for great service and don't want to stiff underpaid employees who might be depending on gratuities. At the same time, we don't want to double-pay service charges already included in our bills or inadvertently insult someone in a foreign country.

So, who deserves a tip, and when and where should you give it? Also, how much should you tip?

Tipping customs vary based on your destination and what sort of travel you are doing. For hotels, tipping can depend on the room rate, the level of service and the details of your stay. (Did you refuse housekeeping for the duration of your trip? Or, did you trash the room with a massive all-night party?)

The COVID-19 pandemic also impacted the world of tipping. Housekeepers, for example, may have much more extensive cleaning regimens even though they might not touch your room during your stay. Also, short-staffed hotels may add more responsibilities for already overworked employees.

To help you decide how much you should tip during specific travel situations, from tours to hotels to all-inclusive vacations, here's what to know.

Tipping tour guides

Let's start with how much to tip tour guides. Not unlike when you dine at a restaurant, there's a general consensus to tip tour guides based on the level of service you receive.

For tour guides, we recommend tipping 10% to 20% of the overall tour's cost. Of course, you're always welcome (and encouraged) to tip more for exceptional service if you feel inclined.

Whom to tip at hotels

When many hotels eliminated housekeeping services during the COVID-19 pandemic, I got out of the habit of traveling with the cash I used to carry specifically for tipping housekeeping.

But if there's anyone within hotels you should tip, it's housekeeping. Many experts agree that you should tip housekeeping $3 to $5 per day, depending on the length of your stay, your room rate and the level of service.

"These are the hardest-working people in the hotel and the least recognized," Tom Waithe, general manager of the Alexis Hotel Seattle, previously told TPG.

You should, however, be on the lookout for hidden housekeeping fees that some hotels have been adding to room charges — sometimes up to $40 per day. In these cases, a gratuity is not expected, though it's still possible that those hotels are not sharing these fees with staff.

A rule of thumb states that luggage attendants who help you with your bags at hotels (and airports) should receive $1 to $5 per bag. Round up for large groups of bags or if the attendant must take multiple trips or handle fragile or special-request items.

For car valets, a couple of dollars is typically appropriate; you may want to tip more if the valet delivers on a rush request. If you're staying at a hotel for a while and expect to use your car often, start the valet out with a larger tip of about $10 dollars, and explain your situation. You'll likely get your car parked closer and delivered ahead of other people's cars daily.

Butlers and concierges, especially at luxury hotels, should also be tipped an amount determined by what services they've delivered for you. Tipping the head door person at a hotel can also be a way to get improved service during a longer visit.

Who doesn't need a tip at a hotel, then? The people delivering room service meals where a (usually hefty) service charge has already been added to the tab do not necessitate a tip. Of course, you can still feel free to tip them. In the rare cases when gratuity isn't included or if you've asked the staff for some out-of-the-ordinary services, those circumstances would warrant tipping.

Related: Innovations in hotel stays: How to give guests the next-level experience

Tipping around the world

If you've ever traveled outside the U.S., you may have received mixed messages about tipping or confused faces from non-Americans when discussing tipping culture in this country.

In some countries — such as Australia, Japan and China — tipping is not common. It's actually frowned upon in Japan.

"Tipping abroad is so much more than converting currencies. Many countries and cultures each adopt their own nuanced take on this, at times, delicate matter," Tom Marchant, co-founder of the luxury travel company Black Tomato, told TPG. In Australia, where tipping is "not a common transaction," it can even make recipients a bit uncomfortable.

Otherwise, you should distribute tips as you do in the U.S. when visiting most of Europe, touristy areas of Mexico, the Caribbean (excluding all-inclusive resorts ) and Canada. Tipping is also customary in India and the Middle East.

In Central and South America, leaving small amounts of change in the local currency is greatly appreciated. If you're traveling to Africa, expect more intricacies, depending on whether or not you're on safari or staying at an urban property in a major city.

If you're unsure what's customary in a specific destination, feel free to ask around or err on the side of being overly generous.

Related: The ultimate guide to tipping in Europe

When to tip on an all-inclusive vacation

Speaking of all-inclusive resorts, know that daily service charges are typically included in your bill if you're on a cruise or staying at an all-inclusive resort. However, be sure to double-check your folio carefully or inquire with the front desk upon check-in. Also, be sure to verify what's included in a property's resort fees, even for non-inclusive properties.

According to Lindsey Epperly Sulek — founder of Jetset World Travel and a Caribbean travel expert — most traditional all-inclusive resorts, like Sandals in the Caribbean, include gratuity.

If gratuities are not included, you can follow the previously mentioned hotel guidelines : $1 to $5 per bag for the bellhop, $5 per day for housekeeping (left every day), nothing extra for room service (if included on the bill) and a sliding scale for concierges, depending on the task's difficulty.

If you're taking a tour from an all-inclusive resort — such as for a safari — tip your guides and the driver.

Related: The 17 best all-inclusive resorts in the US for a spectacular vacation

Tipping staff during a cruise

Whether they're called service charges or gratuities, the automatic fees cruise lines charge daily to passengers' onboard accounts — sometimes as much as $25.50 per person, per day — are designed to replace cash tipping. It's a policy that was put in place so cruisers won't feel obligated to tip or worry about when and where to present gratuities.

In addition to passenger-facing crew members, such as waitstaff and cabin stewards, many other crew members see a portion of service fees. This includes people who wash dishes and work in cruise ship laundry rooms. You can pay these fees in advance or have them added to your onboard bill. You can adjust the gratuity amount up or down by visiting the guest services desk during your sailing.

If you want to provide an extra boost to a crew member who has gone above and beyond, mention them in your post-cruise survey so they can receive higher-level recognition. This is something that could come with more long-term benefits than a tip.

If you find yourself on a sailing that doesn't charge daily gratuities or you want to tip extra for stellar service, be sure to bring cash. There might also be a tip box by the reception desk.

Have a favorite bartender or waiter on your sailing? An extra gratuity paid early during your trip will go a long way to ensure that above-average service continues throughout your vacation. Keep in mind that most cruise bar purchases and spa treatments automatically include gratuities ranging from about 15% to 18%. There's no need to tip extra unless you want to.

Related: Can I remove prepaid gratuities on a cruise?

Tipping flight attendants and airport employees

Generally, airline employees like flight attendants are not allowed to accept any tips on the job. However, airport staff members are permitted to do so.

One notable exception is Frontier Airlines, which has an inflight tipping program.

Airline employee unions have fought against allowing flight attendants to accept tips, which may seem counterintuitive. However, labor laws allow employers to pay sub-minimum wages if the employees are assumed to be receiving gratuities on a regular basis. Don't be insulted if flight attendants refuse your tip offers — they're doing so to protect their salaries.

Many airlines provide ways passengers can recognize services provided by flight attendants and other employees. For example, Southwest Airlines has its Commend an Employee program that lets you leave positive comments online. This may have a more positive impact than the dollar tip you offered for your gin and tonic.

Should you want to show your appreciation for a particularly friendly or helpful flight attendant, note that gifts such as snacks or coffee shop gift cards are OK.

Bottom line

Tipping is often customary when traveling, depending on where you go, what service you receive and the level of service provided.

Bookmark this guide for your next international trip.

Related reading:

• 8 lessons I learned from my 1st all-inclusive vacation
• 10 times you do not need to tip on a cruise
• Mobile tipping comes to hotels: Will housekeepers really benefit
• We asked a flight attendant for their top insider tips on flying like a pro

20 travel tips for planning (and enjoying!) the perfect getaway

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Nicholas Kristof

My Travel Tips for Seeing the World’s Best Places

By Nicholas Kristof

Opinion Columnist

’Tis the season for vacations, so let me make my pitch that the best travel is not lounging at a beach resort but rather journeying into a different world. We all need relaxation at times, but nothing beats the thrill of a trip of discovery and the education that comes with it.

Mark Twain once observed that “travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness.” In that spirit, I’ve long urged young Americans to take gap years before college or junior years abroad . (One high school reader of such an essay, Spencer Cohen , ended up taking a gap year partly in Japan, became an Asia hand and is now a colleague at The Times.)

Still, there are risks, less of violence (the U.S. has more guns than other countries) than of having your passport and credit cards stolen. So I preach both travel and prudence, and on a recent book tour , I found myself often asked about travel advice I had mentioned in my memoir. So let me share a few tips for the vacation season:

1. The most memorable travel often involves encountering something unfamiliar, so consider escaping the herds parading through Paris. Indonesia, Ghana, India, Nepal, Vietnam, Morocco and Bolivia are generally safe, far cheaper than Europe and offer indelible experiences. I’ll never forget venturing deep into the Potosí silver mines in Bolivia, exploring a grim slave castle in Ghana that dispatched prisoners to slavery in America, learning how to use a blowgun while staying with families in their longhouse in Indonesia’s Borneo rainforest. The world awaits us!

2. Some of the places that you find most culturally distant may be right here in the United States. A teenager from an affluent family in the New York or Boston areas would step into a different world by taking a ranch job in Wyoming. And this is the kind of travel that is not only affordable but actually pays for the experience.

3. Be spontaneous. As a law student in 1982, I spent five weeks backpacking through the Middle East and met a couple of Palestinian students on a West Bank bus; I jumped off at their stop and spent a memorable day with them in their refugee camp hearing about their frustrations and dreams (I wrote about reuniting with them last fall). And while on a bus in the Sahara, I accepted an Algerian man’s invitation to visit his village — which turned out to be a warren of underground burrows to protect families from the extreme heat, the most unusual residential architecture I’ve ever seen. In each case, I was with a couple of friends, which made it seem safer to put myself in the company of people I’d just met, and obviously one should be as judicious as one is spontaneous.

4. One occasionally hears that adventurous travel is just for men, but some of the most accomplished foreign correspondents and overseas photographers are women, as are a majority of Peace Corps volunteers. As a man, I don’t face the same risks that women face, but I have seen female travelers — disproportionately from Australia and New Zealand — thriving as they backpack through the most remote places. Some have suggested the purchase of a cheap wedding ring; a $20 band and a fabricated husband can help keep pests away.

5. Carry a decoy wallet. If pickpockets grab it, let them run off — only to discover that it contains just a bit of cash for street purchases, a day pass for the subway and an expired credit card. But do remember to let the pickpockets escape. Years ago, in Lima, Peru, I instinctively jumped a pickpocket who was trying to grab my friend’s decoy wallet, forgetting that he had nothing much in it; next thing I knew we had a melee and a gun was being fired.

6. Carry your passport and valid credit cards and cash in a pouch that loops on your belt and is tucked inside your pants. Travelers often carry travel pouches round their necks under their shirts, but these are visible and sometimes get stolen. While I’ve had bandits make me take off my shoes and socks while searching for cash, nobody has found my pouch in my pants (I dare mention this only because I assume robbers are not big readers of my column).

7. Carry a small cable lock (those for skis are perfect) to lock your bags together so one doesn’t run off while you’re sleeping in a train or on a bench at the train station.

8. Never check a bag for a flight because then it will get lost. That means packing light and taking quick-dry clothes suitable for washing in a hotel sink. I’m fond of travel clothing from a company called Clothing Arts , and I also rely on ultralight backpacking gear such as a tiny Black Diamond or Petzl headlamp that is invaluable when the power goes out.

9. If you’re getting into a taxi or other car in a location that seems at all dubious, use your phone to photograph the license plate before you get in. The driver may wonder if you’ve texted it to a friend. And women can look for female drivers if they exist.

10. My editor doesn’t want me to say anything that might encourage readers to try something dangerous, so I won’t suggest that there is nothing like the view while riding on the top of a train in Sudan . (That was in my dissolute youth, and today I definitely disapprove of riding on top of trains.)

11. People worry about terrorists, but the most likely serious risk is probably a vehicle accident. Motorcycle taxis common in low-income countries can be perilous, while buses and trains are safer (inside trains only!).

12. Now forget all the fears this article has conjured. Go have fun. Travel should be as enjoyable as it is eye-opening. If you take precautions it will be.

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

Follow the New York Times Opinion section on Facebook , Instagram , TikTok , WhatsApp , X and Threads .

Nicholas Kristof became a columnist for The Times Opinion desk in 2001 and has won two Pulitzer Prizes. His new memoir is “ Chasing Hope: A Reporter's Life .” @ NickKristof

14 Amazing Destinations for Women Who Are Traveling Solo

These trip ideas make traveling alone fun (and safe).

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

We consulted experts in travel from Fora, a modern travel agency , who have helped several clients meet and fulfill their solo travel aspirations and our team, who has been evaluating destinations worldwide for the Family Travel Awards to provide this list of tried and true solo travel destinations for women. And if you’re still a little concerned about safety while traversing these cities on your own, not to worry because we also checked the Institute for Economics and Peace's 2023 Global Peace Index , which vets each country to measure their "peacefulness" as well as the U.S. Department of State's travel advisories .

As always, when traveling alone you should also carry out your own research on each destination and take proper precautions to keep yourself safe. Otherwise, happy travels!

Iceland tops the Global Peace Index for the most peaceful country in the world. Even the U.S. government notes that Iceland has a "a low crime rate ." It also lends itself to adventure lovers with its many natural attractions. Fora Advisor Kaitlan Leonard suggests renting a car to take in landscapes, including Black Sand Beach, Blue Lagoon, ice caps, steaming geysers and more. "If you have the time, driving the whole Ring Road is well worth it," she noted. "Each town along the way is so unique and friendly. End your trip in Reykjavik with an incredible meal at Ox, and meet new friends dining around the chef’s 17 seat table.”

TIP: Get more of a feel for the local culture by looking to residents as resources. "Iceland is an extremely safe country with very friendly locals who love sharing information about their beautiful country with visitors," Fora Advisor Kara Kassuba told Good Housekeeping. "During your time there, you’ll likely meet many people and find yourself engaged in interesting conversations with non-stop learning opportunities."

Denmark is well known for its stunning castles, vibrant towns and villages, as well as famous natural-occurring attractions. The country is also vetted as safe and secure, ranking second on the 2023 Global Peace Index .

GH Staffer Emma Seymour recently traveled to Copenhagen on her own and expressed that the destination was ideal for biking and had a ton of great restaurants and shops. " I biked everywhere and it was really easy to rent bikes (there are a bunch of bikes just lying around that you can use with an app!)," she said. "I highly recommend biking through Christiania and eating at the vegan restaurants there. It can feel awkward to embrace going to bars or restaurants alone, but it's the best way to see a city."

TIP: Consider staying in a hostel for added security and the opportunity to connect with other travelers. "I stayed at Steel House hostel , which was so fun," Seymour said. "I had a private room that was small, but perfectly organized. The hostel had a ton of social events too and was very family friendly. It felt super safe."

EXPLORE NOW

The key to solo travel in Mexico is to pick cities that are easy to navigate and welcoming to tourists. Fora Advisor Caryn Ruocco suggests Mexico City, Mexico. "The city is safe, especially in neighborhoods like Roma, Condesa and Polanco," she told Good Housekeeping, noting that "these areas are particularly well-patrolled." The city is also very walkable and offers an impressive art scene for those looking to immerse themselves in Mexican culture.

Another Mexican city solo travelers should add to their list: Sayulita. Fora Advisor Lauren Ruehl explained that the community "exudes warmth and friendliness, welcoming you in as a solo traveler from the moment you arrive."

TIP: Treat your resort as a home-base for your activities and travel. "You should treat yourself to a little R&R at a resort after a solo adventure and end your time with a stop at Susurros de Corazón or Four Seasons Punta Mita to treat yourself to a night in luxury and a visit to the spa,” Ruehl said.

It's hard to beat the beauty of Ireland. The U.S. government notes that the country has a "low rate of violent crime" so traveling on your own should feel secure and comfortable. GH staffer Kaitlyn Phoenix took one of her first solo vacations to the country, noting that it is a must-visit. “The people in Ireland were super welcoming. I was young and trying to save money at the time so mostly stayed at bed and breakfasts, but I splurged for a night in Ballyseede Castle and loved it so much,” she said.

She also noted that Ireland has no shortage of outdoor attractions. " The Cliffs of Moher are a must-see if you’re in Ireland," she said. "If you’re into nature walks and gardens, the Blarney Castle grounds are nice to explore so it’s not just about kissing the Blarney Stone. Another great area if you love hiking/nature walks is the Burren. When I went, they had an excellent self-guided tour in the app."

TIP: If you opt to rent a car in Ireland "keep in mind that in addition to driving on the left side of the road, you’ll have to navigate a lot of one-lane roads (like the Conor Pass) where you have to pull over if another car comes by from the opposite direction," Phoenix said.

As if the beaches, architecture and food were not already a major draw, Spain ranks in the top 35 on the 2023 Global Peace Index , making it one of the countries in the world that has maintained peace over the last year. Solo travelers will enjoy the country's diverse terrain, offering walkable cities, vast deserts and calming countrysides.

TIP: Enjoy tapas for one sitting barside or enjoy street food in a nearby park as an easy way to meet others.

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Though Hawaii may often get overlooked for solo travel due to it's reputation as a romantic or family destination, Fora Advisor Melissa Friedman-Levine said Big Island, Hawaii should be your next solo vacation.“Not only is the Big Island safe as a solo traveler, [but it also] has such incredible diversity of landscape between the drier Kona side with the resorts to the lush tropical Hilo side and of course the volcanoes, she said. "A recent client had an amazing time, enjoying relaxation, horseback riding, a tour of the volcano park, and even swimming at night with the manta rays."

TIP: If you want to travel with a four-legged friend, book your stay at Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club , which allows all sizes of dogs without any pet fee. Solo travelers can treat their pups to dog-friendly programming, including   SUP paddle and surf lessons for dogs  and  pet portraits with a local dog photographer . EXPLORE NOW RELATED : Best Travel Instagram Captions

Seattle, Washington

You might actually be sleepless in Seattle—just because there's so much to do. Solo travelers will feel right at home in Pike Place Market , where they can grab breakfast and lunch from one of the many stands, and pick up gifts and unique souvenirs. "I was surprised that the market houses Golden Ages Collectables, the oldest comic book store, The Museum of Glass , Museum of Pop Culture , and the Space Needle neighbor each other so plan to spend the day visiting all three," said Karen Cicero , Contributing Travel Editor. "Take an excursion for the day or overnight to Olympic National Park, which has a lake, rainforest and rugged coastline.

TIP: July and August are the least rainy months to visit while November and December are the wettest. "I visited last July and there wasn't a drop of rain and the temperatures were in the 70s—it was perfection," said Cicero.

Boasting over 1,200 islands, Croatia is the perfect destination for anyone who loves sailing or outdoor water activities. Its coastal cities also feature gorgeous cobblestone streets, adorable cafés and artisan boutiques. If that isn't enough, the country's low crime rate also makes it an amazing option for solo travel.

TIP: Game of Thrones fans will want to check out Dubrovnik, where several of the scenes from the series were shot. There are also tons of option for Game of Thrones tours where travelers can visit film sites and learn more about what went on behind the scenes.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Believe it or not, the Big Easy has tons to offer solo travelers. Take your pick from live entertainment on The French Quarter, visiting historical sites, and indulging in excellent cajun and creole cuisine. "Wandering around the quarter, you encounter live music all over - one to book is Preservation Hall with classic New Orleans jazz nightly," said Kassuba. The Garden District is another great place for wandering or home tours. "On Magazine Street strolling to the shops and restaurants is a nice way to spend an afternoon. The Arts + Warehouse District is another favorite, with the Ogden Museum for Southern Art and a variety of interesting local galleries on Julia Street," she noted.

TIP: Book a dinner at Mosquito Supper Club or Dakar Nola , which both have shared tables. "As a solo diner I’ve always had an interesting evening with my paired dining partners,” Kassuba said.

You may come for the hot springs, festivals and breathtaking landscape, but you'll want to stay for the variety of places to shop and dine. Taiwan's diverse offerings make it the ideal location for solo exploration.

TIP : Stop by the night markets for affordable and delicious cuisine. Linjiang Street (Tonghua) Night Market has been said by reviewers to have plenty of options, but be sure to have cash on hand as not all vendors will take card.

If you're looking for a destination that is as culturally and spiritually rich as it is beautiful, Cambodia is a great place to go. Your money will also go a long way as one US dollar is equal to about 4,100 Cambodian riel.

"Whether looking for adventure, culture, wellness, or somewhere to just get away from it all and re-group, Cambodia is an easy country to traverse and has diverse experiences from north to south - vast temples, eclectic cities, laid-back beaches, and some incredible luxury hotels and resorts that will take your breath away," Fora Advisor Alexandra Hepworth said.

TIP: Make sure to visit the spectacular temples of Angkor Wat , which Hepworth described as "a sight to behold."

Washington, DC

If you're traveling solo for the first time, DC is your ticket to fun. It's easy to access by train or plane, depending on where you're coming from and it has an easy-to-navigate public transportation system. Many museums and historical sites are free to enter, so there's no pressure to stay for hours. That means you can hop from the gemstone exhibit at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History to the remarkable collections at the National Portrait Gallery all in one day—and still have time to grab lunch from one of the food trucks on the National Mall. "Be sure to make it over to the Georgetown neighborhood during your trip," suggested Cicero. "You'll find wonderful restaurants with many types cuisine plus cute one-of-a-kind shops and coffee bars. There's even a cat cafe!"

TIP: Even though the attractions are free, you need to make reservations in advance to enter; it's easy to do through the websites.

For a beachside vacation, Costa Rica is just the place to go. Not only does it have clear blue waters, but you can also visit a national park or conservation areas. Costa Rica is also a less expensive alternative to some European cities, but is just as easy to get around.

TIP: Join in on group activities. The town of Santa Teresa "attracts a lot of solo travelers and digital nomads, so it's easy to meet people," according to Fora Advisor Ronit Margolis . "It has a vibrant food scene, with plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a meal alone or with new friends. You will feel a strong sense of community as everyone is so friendly."

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Rwanda is actually one of a few countries that are in the blue zone on the U.S. government's website , meaning you can exercise "normal" precautions when traveling. You'll have a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the African country as you can plan to see incredible wildlife in their many National Parks.

TIP: Beyond experiencing the great outdoors, immerse yourself in history and culture by exploring the Kigali Genocide Memorial and multiple art galleries .

Cameron (she/her) is a staff writer for Good Housekeeping , where she covers everything from holidays to food. She is a graduate of Syracuse University, where she received a B.A. in magazine journalism. In her spare-time she can be found scrolling TikTok for the latest cleaning hacks and restaurant openings, binge-watching seasons of Project Runway or online shopping.

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TSA readies for busiest Labor Day travel period on record, provides top travel tips to help airline passengers prepare

WASHINGTON — The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is prepared to screen more than 17 million people during what is expected to be the busiest Labor Day travel period on record, which will run Thursday, August 29 through Wednesday, September 4. The peak travel day is projected to be August 30, when TSA expects to screen 2.86 million people.

Air travel volumes this summer are the highest the agency has seen in its history. The agency expects passenger volumes to be 8.5 percent higher than last year during this time, and has already screened 239.8 million people since Memorial Day weekend, which is an average of  2.7 million per day. The top ten busiest travel days in the agency’s history have all occurred this year since May 2024. The agency reached a new milestone on July 7, when Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) screened more than 3 million people in a single day.

“People are traveling more than ever this summer and TSA along with our airline and airport partners stand ready to close the busiest summer travel period on record during this upcoming Labor Day weekend,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. “I commend our vigilant workforce, from our TSOs on the front lines at airport security checkpoints across the country to those behind the scenes, working hard to keep the transportation system secure—especially as we continue to roll out new checkpoint technology that improves security effectiveness, efficiency, and the passenger experience.”

TSA is staffed to meet its wait time standards, which are 10 minutes and under in TSA PreCheck® lanes and 30 minutes and under in standard screening lanes. With this increase in travel volumes, TSA recommends airline passengers travel with ease by enrolling in the TSA PreCheck Trusted Traveler Program , where members do not need to remove shoes, belts, 3-1-1 liquids, laptops, food items, and light jackets at the checkpoint. TSA PreCheck members are reminded to make sure their Known Traveler Number (KTN) is in their airline reservation so it appears on their boarding pass.

REAL ID will go into effect in less than nine months, starting May 7, 2025. Airline passengers will soon need a REAL ID-compliant form of identification when flying. If the driver’s license is not REAL ID-compliant, they must have another form of acceptable identification, such as a U.S. passport. REAL ID driver’s licenses and identification cards have a small star in the upper right corner indicating they meet federal regulations that establish minimum security standards.

Check out TSA’s top travel tips for an efficient and successful trip through security.

When should you leave? The best and worst times for traffic over Labor Day Weekend 2024

• Travel during the final long weekend of summer will be busy within the U.S., with domestic travel up by 9% from last year.
• This year, international travel is down 4% from 2023, likely due to rising costs.
• The roads will be most congested during the afternoons of Thursday, Aug. 29, and Friday, Aug. 30, and early evening and morning of Saturday, Aug. 31.

As Labor Day weekend approaches, travelers are gearing up for one last summer getaway .

This year, Labor Day falls on Sept. 2, marking the end of a record-breaking travel season. Travel during the final long weekend of summer will be busy within the U.S., with domestic travel up by 9% from last year, according to AAA.

Those driving to their destination can expect heavy traffic, especially during peak travel hours. But they can at least enjoy lower gas prices: The national average is about 20 cents a gallon less than last year's holiday weekend.

This year, international travel is down 4% from 2023, likely because of rising costs. According to AAA booking numbers, international travel for Labor Day weekend 2024 costs 11% more than last year.

Here's what travelers can expect for Labor Day weekend 2024.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

What are the most popular domestic destinations for Labor Day weekend 2024?

This year, many U.S. travelers are heading toward Seattle with bookings for the Emerald City up nearly 30% from last year, according to AAA's booking data. Some will be continuing to Alaska, with Anchorage and Juneau also topping the list for the most popular U.S. end-of-summer destinations.

"This is the time of year to go on an Alaska cruises ,” said Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel, said in a news release. "There are fewer crowds compared to earlier in the summer, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of fall colors! It’s no surprise Alaska cruises are sold out this Labor Day weekend."

What are the most popular international destinations for Labor Day weekend 2024?

Just north of the Canadian-U.S. border, Vancouver tops the list for the most popular international destination, according to AAA. Following closely behind are beloved European destinations including Rome, London, Paris, Dublin and Amsterdam.

Learn more:   Best travel insurance

What are the worst times to drive for Labor Day weekend 2024?

The roads will be most congested during the afternoons of Thursday, Aug. 29, and Friday, and early evening and morning of Saturday. Returning home from the long weekend, drivers can expect the worst traffic during the afternoon of Sunday, Sept. 1, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday and the morning of Tuesday.

"Drivers should expect the most severe traffic jams before the holiday weekend as commuters mix with travelers,” Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX, said in a statement. "Monitoring traffic apps, local news stations, and 511 traveler information services may help drivers navigate around congestion and reduce driver frustration this Labor Day."

What are the best times to drive for Labor Day weekend 2024?

If you're hoping to avoid traffic jams, plan to hit the road at night or the early morning. The best times to drive for Labor Day weekend are before 11 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 29, before noon or after 7 p.m. on Friday, and after noon on Saturday.

For returning home, depart before noon on Sunday, Sept. 1, before 10 a.m. on Monday, or after 1 p.m. on Tuesday.

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

New Instagram filter tells you when you’re too close to wildlife

Jackson Hole’s tourism board created the tool to reduce conflict between visitors and its Wyoming animals.

To protect animals and people on public land, the National Park Service advises visitors to stay at least 25 or 100 yards away from the wildlife, depending on the species. The distance can be difficult to measure, especially if you are behind a camera. A new Instagram filter created by the Jackson Hole Travel & Tourism Board in Wyoming removes the guesswork and helps ensure a safe encounter between photographer and subject.

Shortly before the busy summer season, the Western destination’s tourism office released a filter called Selfie Control, which is available free on Instagram. The tool features five animals — bison, bear, elk, moose and two types of bears (black and grizzly) — that reside in Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks and surrounding wilderness areas. To use the feature, click on the name of the animal, and an icon appears in the frame, plus the recommended distance: 25 yards for moose, elk and bison and 100 yards for bears. Once you set up your shot, the image of the real animal should be the same size as the symbol. If it’s too big, you’re too close.

“ We are not discouraging people from going to see these animals, but we are trying to give them the tools to do it more responsibly and in a way that adheres to the guidelines in these wild places,” said Crista Valentino, the tourism board’s executive director.

Conflicts between humans and wildlife are a growing concern among conservationists and public land stewards. The number of park visitors and outdoor recreationists has been on the rise over the past few years. More than 4.5 million people visited Yellowstone last year, for instance, the second-most on record after the 4.86 million visitors of 2021. But not everyone is following the guidelines. On social media, you can gawp at people snapping selfies inches from burly bison, taunting black bears and mobbing elk. Multiple “touron” accounts on Instagram document such behavior.

“We need to abide by the rules of the park, because the wildlife could be potentially harmful to humans,” said Chamois Anderson, a senior representative of the Rockies and Plains program with the Defenders of Wildlife . “You just never know when they’re going to react in a negative way.”

In most cases, both parties escape unscathed — but not always. In June, a bison in Yellowstone gored an 83-year-old woman. Last week, a black bear attacked a child at a private campground near Custer National Forest in Montana. Just over a year ago, a Yellowstone visitor carried a newborn bison up a river bank in a misguided attempt to help the struggling animal. The herd rejected the baby, and officials had to euthanize it . The Montana bear was euthanized, too.

“Not respecting their space could result in harm to us and their potential death,” Anderson said.

Even if an interaction seems benign, wildlife experts say invading a wild animal’s space can cause it undue stress. The emotional or mental turmoil can interfere with its feeding, mating or migratory habits.

“Stress is probably more of a detrimental factor than the few times we actually have to euthanize animals for being aggressive,” said Renee Seidler, executive director of the Jackson Hole Wildlife Foundation .

National parks and other agencies that manage public lands, such as the U.S. Forest Service, share wildlife-safety tips on signs and in printed material distributed to visitors. Jackson Hole, which is about 10 minutes by car to the Moose Entrance of Grand Teton and a little over an hour’s drive to Yellowstone’s south entrance, dangles the PSA directly in visitors’ faces.

“We started talking about how we were seeing social media posts of people literally taking selfies with these animals,” Valentino said, “so we came up with the idea of ‘let’s not fight it, but lean into it.’”

The tourism board is promoting the filter around town — on sidewalk decals, light-pole banners and restaurant coasters — as well as beyond its borders. Valentino said visitors should activate the filter within a 200-mile radius of Jackson Hole, in destinations with similar wildlife. Since its debut in May, she said, thousands of people have downloaded it.

Because the technology is open-sourced, Valentino hopes other wildlife areas around the world will adopt the filter and tailor it to their local fauna needs — for instance, like in Australia.

“Let’s say Brisbane is having issues with their kangaroos,” Valentino said. “They can download the coding and add a kangaroo icon and the right distance.”

More travel news

How we travel now: More people are taking booze-free trips — and airlines and hotels are taking note. Some couples are ditching the traditional honeymoon for a “buddymoon” with their pals. Interested? Here are the best tools for making a group trip work.

Bad behavior: Entitled tourists are running amok, defacing the Colosseum , getting rowdy in Bali and messing with wild animals in national parks. Some destinations are fighting back with public awareness campaigns — or just by telling out-of-control visitors to stay away .

Safety concerns: A door blew off an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jet, leaving passengers traumatized — but without serious injuries. The ordeal led to widespread flight cancellations after the jet was grounded, and some travelers have taken steps to avoid the plane in the future. The incident has also sparked a fresh discussion about whether it’s safe to fly with a baby on your lap .