Buzz
Whether you're heading to a nearby town or embarking on a long-distance adventure, thorough planning is essential to ensure your trip goes off without a hitch. Adequate preparation can help you steer clear of unexpected hiccups, like having your credit card refused or running low on clean clothes. While you're away, it's also wise to take steps to protect both yourself and your belongings.
Process
Booking Travel Accommodations
Secure your flight tickets if you're flying. Airfare can be one of the biggest expenses of your journey, especially for international travel. Purchasing your plane tickets first will give you a clear idea of your arrival time and how long you'll be away.
- Be conscious of time zone differences when traveling longer distances. The flight schedules are based on the local time at the departure and arrival airports.
PRO TIP
Allyson Edwards
Global Traveler & International Consultant
Global Traveler & International Consultant
Allyson Edwards, International Consultant, advises: “When traveling internationally, you may be required to show proof of your departure from the country. Booking your flights ahead of time can make securing a visa much smoother.”
Make sure your vehicle is in top shape before driving. If you're planning a road trip, have your car serviced with an oil change and a thorough inspection. Take care of any necessary repairs so your vehicle is ready for the journey.
- Inform the mechanic that you're about to take a road trip, including your travel dates and the total distance. This will help them assess whether your car is roadworthy or if repairs are needed.
- Consider updating your car insurance for the trip. Opt for comprehensive and collision coverage to ensure you're protected in case of an accident while on the road.
Make any reservations you may need for lodging or transportation. Upon arrival at your destination, you'll likely need somewhere to stay. If you're flying, you may also want to rent a car or familiarize yourself with the local public transportation options.
- If you require passes for public transport, it's wise to arrange them before you arrive. This way, you can head straight to your accommodations.
- Ensure you're properly licensed and insured if you plan to rent a car at your destination. If traveling internationally, an international driving license may be necessary.
Consider travel insurance for longer or higher-cost trips. If you have homeowner's or renter's insurance, it will likely cover any lost or damaged items. You can also opt for additional coverage to safeguard against issues like cancelled or delayed flights.
- Many credit card companies offer travel insurance, but you'll likely need to use the card for your flight or accommodation booking to qualify for coverage.
- If you're traveling abroad, confirm with your health insurance provider that you'll be covered in case of medical treatment abroad. If not, purchasing supplemental health insurance is a smart move.
Apply for a passport or visa, if required. If you're traveling internationally, a passport is typically a must. Apply well ahead of time to ensure it's ready for your trip. Additionally, certain countries may require a tourist visa.
- Check the website of your country's embassy or consulate in your destination country for more details on the documents needed for your travel.
- If you're taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, verify that they are permitted in your destination country.
Inform friends or family of your travel plans. At least a few trusted individuals should know where you're going and what you'll be doing. Share your flight details and contact information for your accommodation.
- This doesn’t mean you can’t be flexible with your plans. Just make sure that at least one person knows where you are, particularly if you're traveling solo.
Arrange for a pet or house sitter. If you're leaving pets behind, ensure they are cared for in your absence. For trips longer than a week, consider having someone look after your house as well.
- If you're using a kennel or pet service, check their availability as soon as your travel dates are confirmed. Delaying this could make it difficult to secure the service you need.
- For trips of two weeks or longer, consider holding your mail at the post office (unless someone is already handling it for you). A full mailbox is a clear sign that no one is home, which could invite trouble.
Inform your bank or credit card providers about your travel plans. If you intend to use credit or debit cards during your trip, notify the customer service number on the back of your cards with your travel dates and locations. Failing to do so may result in charges being flagged as fraudulent and blocked.
- This is especially crucial if you're traveling abroad, as many banks and credit card companies automatically freeze accounts when cards are used outside the country.
- It's a good idea to bring only one or two cards. Leave the rest at home to minimize the risk if your wallet is lost or stolen.
Store hotel and airline contact info on your phone. In case you encounter issues and don't have access to Wi-Fi, having this information saved in your phone means you won't need an internet connection to reach out for help.
- If you're traveling internationally, add the contact details for your country's nearest embassy or consulate. Having this information on hand ensures you're never without assistance.
Make photocopies of important documents. Photocopy the front and back of key documents like identification and insurance. Should you lose the originals, these copies can help you re-establish your identity and assist with returning home. Don't forget to copy medical documentation and prescriptions too.
- Keep your copies in a secure zippered pouch in a different location from the originals. For instance, if your original documents are in your purse or carry-on, place the copies in your suitcase.
Organizing Your Luggage
Pack light, multi-purpose clothing that you can layer. Lightweight clothing occupies less space and can be layered to accommodate various weather conditions. Opt for wrinkle-resistant fabrics that don't need dry cleaning.
- Avoid bulky, heavy clothes unless your trip involves cold-weather activities like skiing or snowboarding. If you need a winter coat, wear it while traveling to save space in your luggage.
- If you're heading abroad, be aware of local customs and traditions, which may vary from your own. Some destinations may require a more modest appearance, especially for women or those who present as feminine.
Plan your outfits for each day of your trip. Rather than packing individual items, consider packing full outfits. This will ensure you won’t run out of things to wear. Stick to clothing in coordinating colors so you only need to bring one or two pairs of shoes and accessories.
- Plan your wardrobe based on the activities you’ll be doing, and leave anything unnecessary at home. For example, if you're heading to the beach and expect to spend most of your time on the sand, bring multiple swimsuits, but skip the formal attire.
- Try to blend in by dressing casually so you don’t attract attention as a tourist. If you're traveling internationally, familiarize yourself with local customs to avoid standing out.
- Check the weather forecast a few days before departure to make any necessary adjustments to your packing list.
Roll your clothes instead of folding them. Rolling your clothing takes up less space and reduces wrinkles compared to folding. Plus, it keeps everything secure and organized, allowing you to fit more into your suitcase.
- Place heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase, and lighter clothes on top.
- If packing shoes, place them sole-side out to avoid dirtying your clothes. You can also roll your socks inside your shoes to save space and preserve the shoe shape.
Pack essential medical and first aid supplies. While most destinations provide access to first aid supplies and over-the-counter medications, having your own basic kit on hand will save time in an emergency.
- If you take prescription medication, ask your doctor for a generic version (if available) before your trip. That way, if you lose your medication, you can have it replaced easily at a local pharmacy.
Keep documents and items for your return trip separate. Store your return tickets, house keys, and other necessary items in a separate plastic bag. Include a small amount of cash, just in case, and keep the bag in a safe place.
- Don’t carry these items with you while out exploring. Leave them in your hotel room or lock them in a safe at your accommodation.
Bring a laundry bag in your suitcase. While many hotels provide a small laundry bag, bringing your own will be more convenient. Lay it flat on top of your packed clothes to prevent items from shifting during travel.
- Once you arrive, place your worn clothes in the bag. This helps keep them contained and off the floor. When it’s time to head home, you won’t need to sort through your suitcase to find your laundry.
Ensuring Your Safety While Traveling
Check in regularly if you're headed to a risky destination. Some locations pose greater risks for travelers. Arrange a daily check-in, either via text or phone call, with a trusted friend or family member to confirm your safety. If you miss a check-in, they will know to alert the authorities.
- This practice is wise even when traveling to generally safe areas, especially if you're going alone.
- The person you designate should be someone calm, responsible, and capable of taking action if needed.
- If you plan on engaging in risky activities, such as jungle treks or safaris, inform your contact about your itinerary and check in once you’re back from your adventure.
Keep your valuables close at all times. Tourists are prime targets for pickpockets. To avoid becoming a victim, use a money belt or other secure method to carry your cash, IDs, and credit cards.
- When heading out, take only what you need. For example, at the beach, only bring a small amount of cash and ID—leave the rest behind.
- If you're staying at a hotel or hostel, store valuables and important documents in the safe. Consider leaving some extra cash or a prepaid card for emergencies.
Exercise caution when using public Wi-Fi. Public Wi-Fi networks, while common in many destinations, are often insecure and open to hackers. If you must use them, refrain from accessing sensitive accounts like banking apps.
- Set strong, unique passwords for all devices you carry to prevent unauthorized access.
- Some hotels offer Wi-Fi, but security can vary. Ask about network encryption and how often passwords are changed for better protection.
Avoid sharing your location on social media. While it’s tempting to post updates and photos from your trip, doing so can alert thieves that your home is empty.
- It’s safer to wait until you return to share any pictures or trip details online.
- Avoid posting specifics about your travel dates or itinerary before you’re back home.
Always carry an emergency kit in your vehicle when driving. Having an emergency kit on hand ensures you're ready for situations like flat tires or other roadside issues. Even with roadside assistance coverage, help can be delayed, and there might be areas where you can't get a cell phone signal.
- Affordable roadside kits are available online or at discount stores, and they contain the essential tools you'll need. Make sure you’re familiar with each item so you can use them effectively in case of an emergency.
-
Research your destination to learn about the local customs and culture, so you can navigate more smoothly once you're there.
-
If you're traveling abroad, it's helpful to pick up a few basic phrases in the local language. This will make interactions with locals easier, especially if you encounter people who don't speak your language.
