General Travel Tips


Whether it be a road trip, lazy days spent at the beach, tours of historical places, or a romantic getaway, vacations provide an escape and a chance to explore something new and different. The types of trips can vary widely depending on interests and budget. Family vacations often include camping, some time at the lake, or boogie boarding on the waves. Alternatively, the more adventurous may choose to take some time vacationing in a remote cabin in Alaska, or climbing the red rocks of Arizona. The definition of “fun” may vary quiet a bit when it comes to traveling and enjoying time away, but there are some things that most everyone needs to think about when going on vacation.


Tips for Plane Travel


The price of ticket on public transportation also varies depending on the time of year, and comes with extra taxes and luggage charges. According to airline guidelines in 2010 each ticket includes the right to two checked pieces of luggage, and each piece should weigh no more than 50 pounds or else be subject to a fee of $50 per bag, however, in 2012, travelers will often find a fee for any checked luggage. Once again, if there is going to be a lot of baggage, driving may help save some money. For the flight, which can often be fairly uncomfortable, consider bringing a small pillow instead of relying on the ones the airline provides.


Packing


Mesh or plastic bags can be immensely helpful when packing clothes. Separate clothes by category into different bags (i.e. undergarments, pants, shirts, swimsuits) to make finding what you need easier. This will also prove useful when baggage is checked by security at airports, because the inspectors will usually not need to open the bags to see what you have. Whether using bags or not, consider rolling clothes up, rather than folding. This can make it easier to fit more items in a smaller space.


Small bottles can be used to carry toiletries like shampoo, and are refillable. These should be carried in a plastic bag as well according to airport regulations, as well as for organization and to avoid a spill that gets onto everything else.


It is important to pack copies of documents like passports or identification, in case the originals get lost. In addition to packing psychical copies it is also a good idea to e-mail the information along with emergency numbers to a personal e-mail.


As far as money is concerned, keep cash, checks, and credit cards separated to a certain extent so that if some is stolen or lost, there is still some left over.


Lastly, take a piece of traveler’s advice and pack half the amount of clothes you think you need. You can wash them if need be, but if you pack everything you think you need you will more than likely end up with way too much.


Safety


Depending on where the intended destination is there may be warnings directed towards certain nationalities or groups. Researching the area around the hotel or city in general is also a good idea. There are certain details that are good to know before arriving in certain places ( i.e. In third-world countries like Mexico do not get into a taxi before agreeing on a price and do not pay the driver until the destination has been reached and you are out of the cab). Also, when traveling to a relatively undeveloped country there are certain vaccines that are advised before travel. Little details like this can be found in many guidebooks or the city website.When expecting to take advantage of the local highlights it is incredibly helpful to do some research before arriving.


Hannah currently lives in Arizona and is a full-time student, an entrepreneur and writer. She also travels frequently to fulfill her goal of spending time in every country around the world.