Travel Doesn’t Have To Feel Like Torture

Travel guides are everywhere, all types, and it’s hard to really find the best ones. Thankfully, the travel related ideas and tips here are some of the best around, which is sure to give you that wonderful vacation you are dreaming about.

Don’t use the public computers in your hotel or anywhere else they offer free internet while you are on vacation. There is something called a keylogger that scammers use to gain access to your bank information as you type the keys on the computer.

Make a list of what you need to pack. Anywhere from a week to a few months before you go on your trip, make a list of the things you absolutely need to pack. Even if you won’t have time to pack until the last minute, having a list will keep you organized.

Always carry an updated color photo of your child with you. This will come in handy if they are ever lost. Being away from home and losing a child is a very scary prospect. Unfortunately, children get distracted and wander off or something else happens. When you have a photo of the child with you, it can make a big difference in finding them fast if they become lost.

Secure travel arrangements in advance to help maintain your budget. There are many things you purchase for travel, most of them are cheaper, the earlier you buy them. If you have less last minute expenses you can use that money to have a more pleasurable vacation.

Find the airlines that service the airport you are traveling to. Some small airports may have charters with better deals.

When taking a cruise that you have to drive to the port city of, stay in a hotel or motel, that provides free parking, the night before. Ask the staff about deals for parking even if you haven’t been able to locate any.

Make sure that you have clothespins with you on your next vacation. While not on your typical travel list, a handful of clothespins can prove very useful.

It’s important to tip the housekeeper and bell station well. Tipping the bellhop around $1 per bag and the housekeeping staff around $2 to $5 per day is certainly not excessive. This will help ensure that you maintain a good relationship during your stay.

Travel Essentials

Keep travel essentials in one place. Try not to waste time when you are packing. Store all the travel essentials in a plastic bin. A container that you can keep under your bed can keep thing stored away but ready to be take out for your next trip.

Put identifying information inside your bags, as well as on the outside. Make sure that this is on the inside as anyone can tear off tags on the outside. Placing identification and contact information inside your luggage can ensure that it is returned to you in the event it becomes separated from the luggage tag.

Before you travel, find out if your destination requires a visa. The processing time for travel visas can vary greatly, so it is recommended that you complete the application process well in advance of your departure date. Once again, without having the right kind of visa, you won’t be able to get into certain countries.

Service Stations

When going on road trips you should plan to stop to have your vehicle services along the way. Sometimes, there will be long stretches of road with no services at all. While planning your route, look for service stations that offer mechanic services. Make sure all important service stations numbers are kept handy.

If you are traveling on a plane, then consider going luggage-free. This will minimize any disruptions. Send your luggage to your destination by FedEx or UPS. Although that might cost some more money, it’s worth it.

If your road trip involves children, pack lots of snacks. It is best to pack more than you anticipate needing. This makes sure they stay occupied and won’t be too bothersome with stops along the way. Even some junk food wouldn’t hurt this time.

Any time that you buy travel insurance, make sure that you’re honest with the provider. Obviously, if you become sick, let the insurance provider know. If you become sicker on vacation, you’ll wind up with a denied claim. Unfortunately, you will have to pay the bill.

Be sure you are allotting enough check out time when you’re departing your hotel. Many hotels will assess a very high fee if you don’t check out on time. Make sure you check out on time.

Check with your airline to find out what is their carry on policy, and how large of a bag you are allowed. Many airlines let you bring a carry-on and a laptop bag or handbag. Make sure you take advantage of that so you keep all your important things with you!

Brush your dogs prior to putting them in your car when going on a trip. Brushing before you put your dogs in the car will minimize hair floating around the car while you are driving. Remember to pack the items that you will need for your dogs, such as water bowl, food bowl, and bags for cleanup.

It is important to remember that many people stay in hotels. When you stay in a hotel, be conscientious of your neighbors, as you would want them to return the favor, by not slamming doors or being overly loud. Even at mid-day others may be napping, overcoming jet lag or feeling unwell. That doesn’t mean you have to be absolutely silent, but keep noise levels reasonable.

After you have found a vacation site and listed things you want to take, relax and dream of destinations far away. Page your luggage, grab your passport and prepare to have a grand adventure!