Most of us love to travel, it is a big world out there and there are lots to see and experience.
However, travelling to a different country with its own set of rules and customs can prove challenging.
There are also different aspects of climate that need to be considered, so you need to think about potential sunburn, dehydration or at the opposite end of the scale, hypothermia or frostbite.
Therefore, it is vitally important that you make a pre-departure checklist so that you are prepared for every situation and eventuality.
Below we have listed (in no particular order) our best travel tips to help your holiday go as smoothly and successfully as possible.
Our Best Travel Tips
1) Make a list in the weeks before the departure of things you want to take or need to do. Keep adding to it as and when you think of something new
2) Always put essential medication and important documents in your hand luggage and keep them with you at all times
3) Make copies of important documents (passport, visa, vaccination certificates etc.) and keep them in a separate bag
4) Ensure you have adequate travel insurance that covers pre-departure and the entirety of your trip and includes treatment for pre-existing conditions
5) Always carry a small tube or bottle of sunscreen when you are out and about. Sunscreen will not last all day, especially if you are sweating etc. So should be reapplied at regular intervals. This is particularly important with young children
6) Do some research on your intended destination, it is always better to be prepared than surprised. Also, knowing where to visit and when will make your holiday more enjoyable
7) Ensure you have adequate roaming capacity on your mobile phone, especially if you plan to keep in touch with people
8) Beware of using public WiFi, if you do use it, try not to use it for login into your online banking app etc.
9) Always carry some local currency. In an age where most of us pay by card these days, some parts of the world, especially small towns and villages still only accept cash. Cash is also good for tipping local businesses etc.
10) If available, always use the hotel room safe for important documents, credit/debit cards, cash, jewellery and other important items
11) When out and about, distribute cards and cash between different packets and bags. This will ensure that if one pocket gets picked or a bag was stolen, you still have some cash or cards to get by
12) Try to source a local map or guide of the area so that you know what sites to see and to ensure you don’t get lost
13) Pay a visit to the local tourist office and ask their advice on where to go and when, after all, that’s what they are there for
14) Be very careful when hiring bikes, mopeds or jet skis etc. Ensure you have the correct insurance and you know what the local laws are with regards to safety equipment etc. Always inspect everything for damage before you take delivery of it and make sure it is noted by the vendor
15) Learn basic phrases of the local language, it will prove helpful and is always polite to try and converse with locals in their language
16) Always ask the price of something before you purchase it. This is especially important in things like restaurants where the waiter may recommend the “Dish of the day” that is not listed on the menu. Always enquire as to the price of it before you order
17) The same applies to transport, Taxis especially, even if the driver says it is on a metre, always ask for an accurate estimation of the likely cost of your journey
18) In hot countries, it is important to stay hydrated, therefore, always carry a bottle of water or stop frequently at shops and cafes for replenishment
19) Do some research for money-saving offers at local bars and restaurants etc. Some places have a dedicated App offering discounts (Groupon for instance) that local businesses subscribe to.
20) Pre-book activities and tours. This is often a great way to save money on your holiday
21) Before you go out for the day, ensure your phone and/or camera are fully charged and that you have enough memory storage to save images and videos to
22) Pack a first aid kit. Items should include diarrhoea treatments, painkillers, anti-inflammatory tablets, anti-mosquito lotion and any other creams or lotion that you may need to deal with allergies etc.
23) Don’t venture too far off the beaten track, especially at night time and if you are on your own. It is always nice to explore new areas, but always be aware of your surroundings and turn back if you are unsure as to your safety
24) Have good quality and comfortable walking shoes or footwear, especially if you plan to be out every day exploring the sights
25) Always carry hand sanitiser, it has always been a good idea to do this, but even more so given recent events
26) With reference to the above, it may be useful to carry a few Covid testing kits, just in case you or one of your party starts to feel unwell during the trip
27) Chill out, at times it may be necessary to just go with the flow. Delays do happen, things do get cancelled, these things are out of your control. You are on holiday, just accept these things and try and relax
The above list is not comprehensive by any means. It should however help you to stay safe and save some money, which will mean a more enjoyable holiday experience hopefully.
Most holiday mishaps can be avoided with a little planning and preparation and applying some common sense in certain situations.
