Everyone loves to go on vacation, but it can be a very stressful time. Very often, by the time your vacation is over you need another vacation to recover from it! The following article has a few of the best tips and tricks for making your travel as fun and stress free as possible.
When traveling abroad, you should make sure to carry a photocopy of your passport and other important documents in a separate location from the originals. Having a copy of your passport will greatly speed up the process for getting it replaced at the local U.S. consulate or embassy. You may also want to leave a copy with a friend at home.
If you are traveling light and planning to wash laundry as you go, use your daily shower as an opportunity to wash your underwear and even your lightweight shirt. It only takes a few moments and prevents you from building up a pile of laundry that needs to be washed all at once.
It’s easy to get bored while waiting in airports or at bus stations. One of the best items you can carry along is a small hand held computer or a smart phone. Before the trip you can pack it with games and even books so that you will always have something to do while waiting on your ride.
If you have young children and are planning to fly, you should remember that they will need something to help “pop” their ears when the plane is taking off and landing. You can bring gum, or if you child swallows gum, tootsie rolls are the perfect alternative, as they can be chewed just long enough to help.
You can find great vistas and unique vegetation in the desert. Everyone should visit a desert to view its majesty at least once in their life.
To help you lighten your luggage, use sample size cosmetics and toiletries when you pack. If you don’t need a full size bottle of shampoo, there is no reason to carry it across the country. Most drugstores have a travel section where you can purchase travel-size shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, toothpaste and more.
Travel can really help a marriage. It does not have to be an expensive vacation to an island resort. A simple weekend travel adventure to another state or even in your own city can be just what you need to feel reconnected. Spending time alone with just one another can help couples feel good again.
If you plan on going backpacking, make sure you pack the proper gear. Even the most experienced backpackers can get lost, so it is important to bring flashlights, food, large amounts of water, matches and first aid supplies. Also, dress appropriately. Wear layers and avoid cotton clothing and jeans.
Carry a list of important toll-free numbers, and keep it separate from your wallet. Make a list of the toll-free contact numbers for your bank, as well as your credit cards. Keep it separate from your wallet, so if it becomes lost or stolen you can quickly and easily notify the institutions and get the cards canceled.
Sometimes spending that little extra money on a first class seat is well worth it. The service is far superior to that of basic cabin service, the seats are more comfortable, and it is just overall a better experience. If you have got the money to spare, fly first class next time.
Consider using night trains and night buses. By using these forms of public transport, you can save money on accommodation and catch up on some sleep while you travel to your destination. If you chose economy class, make sure you take an inflatable pillow and blanket on board with you.
These days you want to think “light” when you travel–in two different senses of the word. You want to go to a place with warm sunlight when it is dark and cold back home. You also want to think “light in weight.” For instance, the hotel room will have packets of soap, shampoo, etc. Why pay the airline extra to take things you don’t really need?
Safety when you travel is a bigger concern than ever. Social unrest is erupting in many places–and you do not want to be in the middle of it. So be sure to check with a consulate and/or the State Department about the place you are planning to visit. Though it was safe when you visited five years ago, it may not be now.
When traveling, always ask about discounts. If you’re a student or a AAA member, ask before purchasing museum or event tickets. Some debit or ATM cards may get you free admission at certain museums. Remember, it doesn’t cost a thing to ask, and it may save you something!
For travelers who are light sleepers and highly sensitive to noise, consider booking a hotel reservation for a room that faces away from the street and preferably is not located near the elevator or stairwell. If no such room is available, pack silicon or foam earplugs, which will block out loud sounds.
A growing trend among airlines and smartphone programs is the ability to download your ticket information and boarding pass directly to your iPhone or Blackberry. This can save a great deal of time that would be lost to shuffling through papers and even possibly leaving key documents at home or in another suitcase.
If you are traveling to a foreign country, you should make it a point to order some smaller denominations of the foreign currency. By sticking with small amounts, you are less likely to fall victim to unscrupulous vendors, and these amounts are perfect for use as cab fare, tips, and cold beverages.
These are only a few of the tricks out there to help make your vacation hassle-free. If you find that you could use some more, the internet is full of helpful suggestions that can help you out. But hopefully, at least a few of the tips provided here, have helped you out.