Your next big adventure is just around the corner. Say goodbye to stressful planning. With these travel preps, you’ll always be ready for your next adventure.
by TRIN PATRACHOATPREEDAKUL
November 9, 2022
Everyone knows the last few days before a trip can be hectic. Whether you are going to the beach for a weekend or travelling abroad for a month (or two, or three) for leisure or business, travelling should be a pleasant experience.
That being said, there are instances when going on a trip can be nerve-wracking. Dilemmas like incorrect visas, inclement weather, or missing travel documents can happen. These setbacks are not only a pain to deal with, but can also sour a trip.
To help alleviate a lot of stress and last-minute running around, we recommend that you have all travel preparations smashed out pre-departure.
If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry. To help you get started, we created the travel preps you need to know before you travel. Here are the best 7 tips:
1.Don't overpack
One of the most common things that people tend to do when preparing for their trip is overpacking for their adventure. Nothing will make your life easier when jet-setting around the world than not having to lug around a bunch of suitcases full of clothes you probably won’t even wear.
A good rule of thumb is to pack your bag in advance, and the night before you leave, go through it again and take out half the things you intended to bring. If you are going on a long adventure, bring only a weeks’ worth of clothes with you.
Laundry services and laundromats are generally available in almost all destinations which can help you clean what you already have without having to carry all that extra weight. As for toiletries? Get smaller travel sized versions to take with you or even buy them in the destination you are travelling too.
2. Know the rules
Some of life’s usual rules go out of the window when you’re travelling. You don’t have to set your alarm clock and you don’t have to worry about ironing, washing the dishes or any of that other boring grown-up stuff.
But there are some rules you should always follow when travelling, whether you’re train-hopping through Europe or backpacking in Southeast Asia. Let’s call them the golden rules of travel.
Depending on where you’re travelling to, the rules on how long you’re allowed to stay as a tourist can vary hugely. Make sure you know the rules and have the appropriate Visa (if needed). Also verify that your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned return as many countries demand that.
Lastly, make sure you know what vaccines you need in order to travel safely – a quick Google search and a visit to your doctor will give you the info (and vaccines!) you need. And remember: If you’re travelling to an exotic country – for a safari, for example – plan your vaccines a few months in advance – some vaccines have to be administered a few times before you travel.
3. Get Comprehensive Travel Insurance
These are one of those things that you don’t realize you need until it’s too late, especially in the age of COVID and a turbulent travel industry getting itself back on its feet. If ever something happens and you need to cancel a trip for reasons unseen or if you get stuck staying longer than expected due to certain circumstances, travel insurance will be your best friend.
Sometimes you might even have travel insurance coverage without even knowing. Be sure to check with your bank, credit card company, or other insurance policies you may have to see if you have coverage. In either case, a small insurance fee for coverage could save you a huge financial burden in the future, so do yourself a favour and invest.
4. Do your research
You will have a huge leg up on your trip if you take the time and do your research on the places you will be going. Make sure to ask yourself and find answers to questions like:
What kind or currency does my destination accept?
Do they take credit cards?
What is the weather like at the time of year I am travelling there?
What kind of power outlets do they use?
Are there any local customs or cultural traditions I should be aware of?
These are just some questions you will want to research and explore before you head out on your trip. While we believe flexibility on any trip is key to enjoyment, being aware of the kinds of activities and sights to see in your destination will help you better understand what you are in for on your adventure.
5. Learn local lingo
Knowing how to communicate with the locals is key to making friends and feeling at home in your new city (even if you’re only staying put for a few days). You don’t have to be fluent, but knowing some basic phrases will help you a lot, and the more you know, the better, of course.
Before you leave, buy a phrase book (they don’t cost much and are light and easy to carry around) and study up a little. Being able to book a taxi, buy some groceries in the local market or explain your allergies to a non-English speaking doctor can literally save your life, believe us!
6. Stay connected
I think we’ve all been there. You know, when your phone battery is down to four percent during a conversation that could possibly change your whole life, and you start writing faster and faster in order to say everything you wanted before your phone dies on you.
That’s not a pleasant feeling and the only saviour in this situation is your charger. Make sure you always bring along a charger and an adapter so that you can charge all your essential tech gear wherever you are in the world.
7. Make Sure Your Money Is Accessible
Money is a big necessity during your travels, so you’ll want to make sure that you can easily access your funds throughout your trip. First, be sure to inform your bank about your travel plans. Banks tend to suspend credit cards with suspicious activity, especially if the transactions take place in countries that they deem “high risk.” Informing your bank about your trip will allow them to recognize your transactions wherever you go. It also helps to bring enough cash with you, in case your ATM card fails to work or you go to places that don’t accept credit cards.
Before hopping on a plane and going on your next adventure, take some time to carefully prepare for your travels. By packing the right items, preparing for the unexpected, and securing the proper resources, you can make every trip a convenient and enjoyable experience.
Following these travel preparation tips will set you up for a successful and overall more thrilling time abroad, remember that research is key and keep that mind of yours open to new and exciting opportunities.
Go out there, have fun and keep yourself safe!
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