In the world of traveling, there are plenty of great resources available to both new and experienced travelers alike. There are many websites, guides, books, videos, and other resources available. This article contains some of the best tips for helping a new traveler become a smart traveler.
If you travel often, invest in small reusable plastic bottles. You can find reusable bottles at most large supermarkets. Putting your regular shampoos and conditioners in these small, reusable bottles is more cost efficient in the long run. Travel sized toiletries are often very overpriced for the small amount of product inside them.
Planning to keep children happy and occupied while traveling will prevent a lot of headaches for everyone. Set aside special back-packs for any child accompanying you on your venture and fill it with goodies that will hold their attention, amuse them, and even feed them, if necessary. Small things that help pass time like books and notepads or travel games should suffice and will go a long way in easing hassles and boredom.
If you are concerned about theft in the countries you’ll be visiting, set up your wardrobe in advance to ward them off. You can sew passport-sized pockets into the top of your pants; this option might be more comfortable when walking than a moneybelt. Also consider lining the bottom of a cloth bag with chicken wire to deter theives with razor blades.
When traveling, don’t forget that you can travel by bus to many areas in North and South America. It can be much less expensive than flying and is generally lower-stress for the travelers. Traveling by bus has lost much of its stigma in recent years, with many companies purchasing new vehicles and even hiring security guards to ride along.
You already know you can’t take drinks with you through security at the airport. But you can definitely take a water bottle as long as it’s empty. Save yourself the two dollars on water you’re going to buy immediately after you get through security – just bring an empty water bottle from home and fill up with icy-fresh fountain water once you’re through.
When thinking of the items you are going to take with you on your trip, think about what the weather will be like. You can check how the weather has been in the region for the past week and also look at the forecast. Just make sure you take precautions if necessary, so you won’t be caught off guard, if the weather decides to change.
Always ask for upgrades. You can’t get it if you don’t ask. No one is going to offer you a free upgrade just because they like your shirt. When you check in with airlines and hotels, even car rental companies, ask if there are any upgrades available. If it is a special occasion like an anniversary, honeymoon or birthday, make sure to make mention of that.
When traveling on the road with kids, take along some cookie sheets. Cookie sheets can provide flat surfaces on which kids can use coloring books or even to play card games. For little ones, try bringing magnetic numbers and letters for educational enjoyment.
While traveling, do not bully your body into believing you will be sick no matter what. If you suffer from motion sickness, then worrying will only exacerbate the problem. Additional stress should be avoided while traveling. Stress can lower your immune system. Try not to let delays, crying children, or your own imagination get the best of your temper.
Try to pack light when travelling. The last thing you want to be doing when is lugging heavy bags and suitcases through airport terminals and onto buses and trains. Only pack items that you are sure you will need and think about which items you could buy at your destination.
If you are trying out a new restaurant during your travels, watch how the other patrons act. They can give you clues as to how to eat unusual dishes or which condiments to use on your food. This is particularly helpful when eating overseas, where the food is probably very different from what you are used to.
When on a plane with a child, give them a lollipop at takeoff and landing. The child will love the treat, however the main thing is that it will help with the ear pressure and will help keep them from getting too cranky during this time. Once the child is older you can use gum.
If you are traveling with small children, visit a small hospital beforehand. They can give your child an identification bracelet so that if your child gets lost, their personal information is available. If you are traveling to another country, get the identification tag in the language of the country you are visiting.
Sometimes it is hard to stay on track with a healhty diet while traveling. There are times you may have to stop at a fast food restaurant. If so, there are a few things you can do to cut calories. First, order your burger with no cheese or condiments. Also, if possible, choose grilled meats and the salad bar.
Use the same shirt to document the most important landmarks that you go to while traveling. Either bring a favorite t-shirt or buy one while you are on your trip. Keep it handy and put it on to take a picture each time you come to a memorable place. It’s fun, and it adds a unique touch to your pictures.
After reading these tips, you can begin to understand what it takes to become a smarter traveler. There is a lot of information and you need to know how to use it. Keeping that in mind, you can refine your own traveling plans so that you can relax and enjoy your next trip.