Travel Tips: what not to do before your trip
If you’re an avid traveler, you’ve probably made a few mistakes on your adventures. In the words of Bob Ross, “we don’t make mistakes, just happy little accidents.” But sometimes, those travel mistakes can be no-fun and really interfere with your plans.
Here’s a few things to avoid before your next adventure!
- Not checking your passport’s expiration date
For adults, passports are valid for 10 years. Those 10 years can really pass by without you even thinking about checking the date on your passport. Additionally, many countries require a length of time for validity beyond the end of your trip. Check your passport’s expiration date AND validity requirements well in advance of your adventure! - Not investing in quality luggage
You may think the cute, trendy luggage is a fabulous deal, but is it really? Investing in quality luggage that won’t lose a wheel, pop a zipper or break halfway through your trip is key! - Sharing your travel details on social media
Never share your trip dates and details on social media. Doing so gives thieves a great opportunity to check out your home while you’re away. - Booking tight layovers
Did you know that airlines and airports have what are called “legal layovers” but many times they are not practical whatsoever?! For many airlines and airports, the connection times can be as short as 35 minutes, giving you hardly any time to deplane and get to your next gate… much less if your first flight is running late! Be sure you book a flight with plenty of spare time in between! - Using a money exchange service
Money exchange services add massive fees and will end up costing you way more! Instead, ask your local bank to order your destination’s currency before you depart. - Not ensuring your international phone plan will work in destination
Don’t just assume your phone will work once you arrive in destination. Many phone plans require advance notice of your travels and some devices even require you to switch on the roaming network. Prepare in advance for ensuring your device will work, and learn how to dial the local numbers ahead of your trip. This will be important for reaching any driver/transfer services or tour guides throughout your trip. - Booking an AirBNB or VRBO instead of a trusted hotel
Yep, I said it! I loathe vacation rentals because you truly never know what you are going to get. While some vacation rental properties are well vetted and up to standards, many are not. Additionally, a hotel’s reception and concierge team can be hugely beneficial to helping you navigate your destination. And if you arrive early from an overnight flight, you’ll need to find somewhere to store your luggage. With a hotel, typically you will be able to leave your luggage in storage until check-in time.