For most travelers, exploring the world is an experience best suited for somebody willing to learn along the way. Others prefer to be as well-equipped as possible to ensure their trip goes swimmingly without hiccups.
In a recent online forum discussion involving experienced world travelers and digital nomads, various tips are discussed - traveling hacks that many people wish they knew from day one. First-time adventurers and travel veterans will find these tips essential for their next journey!
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1. Double-Check Before Finalizing Flight Purchases
In the era of mobile phones replacing desktop computers, it's easy to "go too fast" when making any purchase, whether it's items from Amazon or a cross-Atlantic round-trip flight.
Many travelers have revealed they have been too quick to book flights without verifying details - one avid adventurer even admits to occasionally booking flights to and from the wrong city because she doesn't double-check her itinerary! Yikes, that's a hassle no one wants to experience.
2. Take Extra Care of Your Passport
A near-infinite amount of travelers all say the same thing: treat your passport as if it's the most valuable item on the planet. I can't highlight enough how important it is. You wouldn't believe how many people tell stories of losing their passports and ruining their entire trip. So, although it seems obvious, keep your passport on you at all times, and don't let it out of your sight.
3. Utilize Microfiber Towels
I was surprised by how many people consider microfiber towels "must-have" items in their backpacks. One specific traveler explains their benefits: "Gotta get on board with those microfiber towels. I didn't like how they dry a little slower and aren't quite as effective, but toward the end of the trip, I realized that's worth how little space they take up."
It's a savvy move, to be honest. After all, who wants their packing space filled with full-size cotton towels?
4. Know the Difference Between U.S. and International Date Formats
One of the easiest things rookie travelers need clarification on is international date formats. For example, the date 04/03/2023 means something entirely different in the United States compared to Europe.
Not knowing the difference can mean missed flights, reservations, and adventures. Trust me; it's one of the easiest things to overlook when traveling overseas, so do yourself a favor and fully grasp the differences.
5. Always Purchase Traveler's Insurance
While it's true that the odds are in your favor that you won't have actually to use your traveler's insurance, you will most likely be facing a catastrophe if you get ill on your trip and find yourself shelling out some significant money for medical treatment. As a result, many travelers believe it's always a good idea to bite the bullet and get insurance.
6. Water Purification Tablets Are Your Friends
Access to fresh drinking water is a luxury many travelers do not enjoy while exploring third-world countries. However, many avid hikers believe water purification tablets are a godsend when you find yourself out of drinkable water.
One nomad goes as far as to say that "one tablet can mean the difference between feeling refreshed and spending the next week on the toilet," which countless others agree with.
7. Let Your Bank Know Where You're Going
Although bank account security has improved recently, even in 2023, it's best to let your bank know where you intend to travel. If you don't, you may face a dire situation, as one traveler experienced. "Currently sitting in Armenia with a debit card that doesn't work and some terrible backup plans. And while I'm sure this will all sort itself out, I'm left feeling so much like I am too well-traveled to make such a massive rookie mistake."
8. Ensure Taxis Drop You Off at Your Hotel's Front Door
If you decide to be old-fashioned and utilize local taxis at any point during your next adventure, it's advised that you always request to be dropped off at your hotel's front entrance. You'd be surprised how many taxi drivers try to rip off foreign travelers. Luckily, hotel door attendants have a reputation for helping travelers avoid being taken advantage of by scrupulous drivers.
9. Remember to Travel Lightly
While this advice is universal for established travelers, it will be eye-opening for explorers just beginning their journey. It's simple: travel lightly. Bringing one backpack will literally "lessen your load," and your back, shoulders, and neck will thank you. In addition, if you carry fewer items on your trip, there will be fewer items to worry about at every stage.
10. Don't Overestimate Your Gut
Travelers can react differently to eating local cuisine, so don't think you will be impervious to food-borne illnesses while on your trip. "I went to Mexico for the first time recently and paid no heed to all of the stories of tourists and their weak constitutions," reports one man. A salad took me out for a solid week. I have been humbled."
This thread inspired this post.
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