There can be so much to do to get ready to travel. Here are 7 great tips to take into consideration while preparing to travel.
1. Is It Comfortable?
It’s really important pack comfortable clothes and shoes. If you haven’t worn something, don’t pack it. If it’s not really comfortable, don’t pack it. If it’s not comfortable, chances are you are not going to wear it or will be uncomfortable, which is not fun anytime, especially when you’re far from home. Wear it, break it in. Make sure it fits well. If it’s comfortable, pack it. If not, leave it at home.
2. Take Notes
Bring a small, pocket size notebook with you. Write down directions, impressions, names of people you meet along the way, anything that you might need to remember to get around or want to remember when you get home. If you’re in a country where they speak another language or use another alphabet, have locals write what it is you are looking for or want to communicate for easy reference.
3. Bring Small Gifts
You never know who you’re going to meet when you travel. It’s a good idea to bring small, easily packable gifts with you to give out along the way. This is especially good if you’re traveling to another country. Small gestures of gifts from your home country or town are a great way to thank people for helping you (and chances are you will need help from a local at some point in your travels).
4. Bring Snacks and Water
Always bring a bottle of water and a snack with you. Traveling is wonderful but can be tiring as well. Staying hydrated and fueled will help a lot in reducing tiredness while you’re out exploring. Don’t assume you will be able to pick up something to drink or eat along the way, especially if you’re not familiar with the area.
5. Pack Light
Seriously, pack light. Pack only absolute essentials. Unless you’re going to be in the jungle, if you need something, you can buy it wherever you are. You are going to spend a lot more time carrying or dragging your luggage around than you think. Even 2 pounds will make a difference so think before you pack something if it is essential or just wanted.
6. Photocopy Passport and Credit Cards
Make a couple of photocopies of your passport and credit cards before traveling. Leave a copy with a friend or family member at home and take one with you (hidden away, of course). This way, if your passport of credit cards are lost or stolen while traveling, you have the information you need to contact the issuers to get replacements and cancel the old ones. You can also take a photo of any important documents and email them to you for a backup.
7. Backup Your Photos
Don’t risk loosing all those amazing photos you took while traveling. Have a way to back them up (in at least one other place) at the end of each day. Memories are nice but your friends, family, and followers want to see the places you’ve seen!