For an event that should be fun, relaxing and free of stress, often times, all of the planning and logistics ends up turning a dream vacation into one big headache. Follow the travel tips in this article to reduce the stress involved in vacationing so that you can return from your next trip, relaxed and rejuvenated.
Plan your packing. In these days of baggage fees and weight limits, most travelers carry one suitcase. To fit everything in, you need to be a smart packer. Check the weather forecast for your destination and choose outfits that you can mix and match. Opt for layers, which can easily be added or removed as the temperature changes. Also remember to wear your heavier/bulkier shoes so that they don’t hog too much space in your luggage.
The advice “don’t drink the water” if you travel to a foreign country is, unfortunately, accurate. However, you can also have intestinal upsets any time you drink water from a place other than where you live, even in the U.S. That’s because the bacterial flora that live in your gut (intestinal tract) are very sensitive to the composition of your own water, in your own area. It takes them a while to get used to water from elsewhere, and in the meantime, they want to push that unfamiliar water right through. So until you get used to the local water, wherever you are, sip slowly or stick with bottled H20.
If you’re planning on taking a cell phone with you on your trip, make sure to call your cell phone provider to ask them about roaming charges. The familiarity of your cell phone may make you feel better, but it may cost you a lot more to use it on foreign soil. A good alternative is buying a local SIM card and using it while you’re there.
When renting a car take the time before you leave the parking garage to acquaint yourself with its most basic features. Make sure an instruction manual for the car model is in the glove box and take time to skim through it. It’s no fun to pull into rush hour traffic just as a thunder storm hits if you don’t know how to turn on the windshield wipers!
A motorcycle is a wonderful way to travel. The gas efficiency, ability to move quickly, and enjoyment of the ride will help the trip get off to a good start. It can be awesome to travel this way.
If you will be on a long trip, be sure to pack a raincoat, specifically one with soft lining. You just cannot tell how the weather will turn out. A rain coat has a few other helpful uses as well. For example, it makes a great windbreaker during the coldest weather, yet a comfortable bath robe while you’re staying at the hotel.
A simple way to save a bit of money on lodging at the beach is to take a room that is not a beach view room. If you are after the romance or have a strong desire to watch the ocean from your room or balcony, then opt for the beach view. However, if you are not as particular, you can put a few dollars in your pocket by taking a room not so in demand.
To avoid jet lag and getting sick while flying, make sure to drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated while you fly will increase your energy levels and combat fatigue. You can always ask for water on board, but it is often easier to buy a large bottle of water after you go through security.
Purchase an inexpensive prepaid cell phone in your destination country if you travel abroad. Many phone companies have very high fees for international use. Instead of racking up a large bill, purchase an inexpensive prepaid cell phone when you arrive, so you can stay in touch without the massive bill.
If you are traveling on a cruise ship, take a fishing tackle box with you. Put all your valuable jewelry in it; someone who is trying to steal from you probably will not look in it. Tackle boxes even have small compartments that allow you to store earrings or rings as well as larger areas for other jewelry.
When you are traveling by cruise ship, take a picture with you to put on your door. It is easy to get confused and have difficulty locating your room. All the hallways and doors on the ship look very similar to one another. To help you find your room without any hassle, put a picture of something you know very well on it. Just be careful not to put any personal photos up.
If you go on a cruise, use formal dinners to chat with fellow passengers. On many ships, you will be seated at a large table near people you haven’t met. Have fun meeting new people, and start conversations with them. You’ll be running into them daily, and may learn some things regarding the ship also.
Pack your toiletries into a Zip-lock bag. You will need to do this to get through airline security and it is sure to save you some space in your baggage as well. It will take up less room than the typical toiletry bag and it will help avoid a mess in your luggage if anything was to spill during travel.
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.
As you can see, there are a number of ways to reduce the stress of planning your vacation and simplifying the logistics. Make use of any or all of these tips when planning your next vacation. Instead of being stressed out, you will have the time and energy to truly enjoy your vacation.
