Travelling is so much fun but can also bring a lot of stress and planning. This is my A – Z list of travel tips to make the most of your travelling experience.
A: Avoid tourist attractions that don’t interest you
You might feel pressure to visit the famous sights ‘just because you’ve travelled all that way so you might as well’. Don’t do this, especially if it’s going to cost you a lot of money. If something really doesn’t interest you, don’t waste your valuable time and money on it - no matter how big the landmark. This is your trip so fill it with things you enjoy.
B: Backpack tips
Buy a smaller backpack so that you are forced to take less stuff. Pack light and only take essentials that will make your trip better for you, whatever that may be. If you are not sure whether you will wear ‘that cute top’, don’t take it. That being said when I went travelling, I was laughed at for taking a small make-up bag as ‘that is not essential’ but getting dressed up in the hostel with my new friends before a night out became one of the best memories of the trip, so pack as light as you can but still include small treats for yourself to make your trip the best it can be.
C: Camera
Don’t forget a camera – preferably a waterproof one! You want to be able to capture all the fun memories you are making and make all your family and friends jealous at home. Don’t forget extra camera batteries as well, you don’t want to run out of camera battery at the top of a mountain with an amazing view.
D: Don’t over plan
I love planning for a trip as much as the next person, but you also have to allow for flexibility and changes, perhaps the weather will be bad one day or the activity you have planned is closed another day. Plan to a certain extent but also allow for changes, and don’t get too stressed when things do change.
E: Extra socks and underwear
Packing light on clothes is a great idea to minimise weight – however – I will also pack extra socks and underwear, just in case! Several times on my travels I have ended up with wet socks (especially in a snowy location) and that then makes you cold and miserable. Pack a few extra pairs of socks so you always have a spare clean and dry pair.
F: First aid kit
A small first aid kit is essential for your trip. You never know when you’re going to need it. Everyone’s first aid kit will be different depending on allergies or medication and each location will also have different needs. Make sure you include plasters, pain relief, allergy tablets, antiseptic wipes, hand sanitiser, tissues, insect repellent, and hydration sachets and Immodium are also essential for tropical countries.
G: Get good shoes
If you are planning to hike on your trip, or even just sightseeing, you will need good, comfortable footwear that you have worn in before you travel. The last thing you want on your trip are blisters and uncomfortable clothing.
H: Heat and humidity
This is something that needs to be considered if you are going to a humid country. Heat and humidity can cause you to become very hot and dehydrated if you don’t look after yourself. Research before you go and plan for ways to relieve any discomfort, such as a portable fan and hydration sachets.
I: Inform your family, friends, and your bank of travel plans
Inform your bank that you will be travelling and intend to use your bank card abroad to avoid your card being declined due to suspicious activity. Save yourself the stress of phoning your bank during your trip to unfreeze your card by informing them before you go. It is also a good idea to inform your family and friends of your rough travel plans and hotel/hostel address, just in case of emergency.
J: Journal
Keep a journal during your trip. It is a great way to show people your experiences after you return home and great to look back on years later.
K: Keep an open mind and step out of your comfort zone
Keep an open mind and try not to set expectations too high. This is not saying that you should expect to be disappointed but keep an open mind to the fact that the destination might be very different to what you expect, possibly even better. Step out of your comfort zone; try new foods, try new activities, you never know you might find your new favourite hobby.
L: Learn basic language
A great way to get into the culture of the country is to learn a few basic phrases. This way you can connect with the locals and understand signs.
M: Money belt – DON’T TAKE ONE
A money belt seems like a good idea as you can keep your money close to you in a safe place. Incorrect. A money belt actually draws attention to you and points out that you have money. The best way to fit into a culture is to blend in as a local. Keep your money safe but not as visible. My best suggestion is to keep your money in separate pockets and wallets, spread around your person and bag. This way if one wallet does get lost or stolen, it is not your entire budget.
N: Needs of your travel partner
If you are travelling with a partner it is a great idea to have a talk before you go to discuss what activities each of you want to do, as well as each of your interests, things that trigger stress, sleeping pattern, eating schedules etc. You should then work together to create the perfect itinerary for both of you so that it is an enjoyable experience for everyone.
O: Observe everything
To make the most of your trip make sure you take in your surroundings as much as you possibly can. Immerse yourself in the culture and take on every opportunity that you can.
P: Public transport
Try to use public transport as much as you can to reduce carbon emissions and save money. Cutting taxis out of your travel will save you a lot of money. Before using public transport, it is important to enquire about the price before you travel as every country operates differently. Another great way to save money is to research travel cards before you go to work out the best and cheapest way to travel.
Q: Quiz the tour guides and locals
Ask locals and tour guides anything you want to know to maximise your experience and learn more about the city and culture, just make sure to be respectful.
R: Relax
Travelling can be stressful but ultimately it is meant to be exciting and the most amazing adventure. Do anything you can to make sure you are relaxed and enjoying yourself, whether that be going with the flow or planning a lot. Just make sure you enjoy it!
S: Separate folder for personal details
Keep a separate folder with your travel details and passport. This makes it easily accessible for you to pull out at any moment you need it without losing anything important. Make sure this folder is kept in a safe place so that all your valuables cannot be stolen.
T: Travel insurance
Travel insurance is essential no matter where you are going or what activities you will be doing. Make sure you are fully covered before starting your adventure.
U: USB portable charger
A portable phone charger is an essential, especially if you are travelling solo. Keep it fully charged for a phone or camera emergency.
V: Visa
One thing that is essential to check before travelling anywhere is their visa requirements. You must apply for the correct visa to cover you for the full length that you intend to be in the country for.
W: Water bottle
Another great way to reduce plastic use is to take your own reusable water bottle. Take a lightweight, foldable bottle if possible and fill it up at water fountains on your trip. It might be worth researching clean water fountain stops in the city you are visiting so you can plan.
X: Xtra money (X is hard, forgive the spelling!)
Travelling on a budget is totally doable, and you can still have the best experience on a budget. It is also important to do everything that you want to do so that you don’t regret missing anything out, even if this means splashing the cash a little bit. Try to take some extra money so that you are not caught out, or even have a way of getting money sent to you via bank card so that you are always covered.
Y: Youth hostels
Youth hostels are a great place to stay if you’re looking to make friends on your trip. Many hostels will put on evening activities and parties which are a great way to make friends and have fun. Hostels are not for everyone though; it is shared rooms and bathrooms with strangers so consider if this is something you would enjoy.
Z: Zzzz – sleep!
Travelling is amazing and exciting, and you want to squeeze as much as you possibly can into your trip, but if you are tired have an early night to relax and sleep. Getting too overtired will ruin the rest of your trip so it is important to rest. It’s all about balance.
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