Tips Before You Travel

Any form of travelling, either domestic or international, can take a toll on a person’s mental state. This usually happens when we’re too busy to look into itty gritty details when planning a trip and end up in unexpected situations. Small things, like changes in weather have us debating on whether it’s better to over-pack or under-pack. Whether you’ll have enough weight and space in your luggage to bring back souvenirs without falling victim to the dreaded over-weight fee at the airport. We are pretty sure this paragraph stressed you out just reading it though.

Follow this list to keep your anxiety in check before you take off, and be assured that we cover everything so that no charger, umbrella or teddy bear is left behind.

Choose Your Luggage

Picking out your travelling companion can be the most important decision you make. Always keep in mind your destination and the activities you might pursue when picking out your baggage. ‘Duffel bags’ are great for short trips and are lightweight, durable and easy to carry if you are going on a mountainous expedition. Wheels are great if you are going to be going through long airports and don’t want to carry something that weighs almost as much you do. ‘Backpacks’ are also great alternative if you want to be hands-free, they’re also great for hikes and camping, and multiple pockets make for great compartments for small valuables and treats.

P.S. Remember to pack a change of clothes in your carry on.

Check The Weather

It may be the most basic thing, but you’d be surprised at how many people don’t check the weather. Note: Weather and temperature are two different things. Be sure to check for rain, heavy winds and snow when travelling, but remember to always pack an umbrella, just in case.

Read Blogs

Bloggers are taking over the world one word at a time. Indulge in some light reading and see what people have to say about your destination ranging from food suggestions, to underground markets and dealing with scams. They are also great for insider travel details that you might not otherwise get on random Google searches.

Have a List

Make a list of all the things you need to pack. Note down everything as you remember it, a week or two before you travel, so when it comes to putting things in your suitcase you’ll already have what you need, written down in a note on your phone. Also, be sure to check out our ‘Travel Checklist’ to make sure you don’t forget any of the basics.

Travel Insurance and Emergency Numbers

This is very important. Make a note of emergency numbers for the police, ambulances and embassies in your host country, you never know when they might come in handy. Also, make sure to have valid health insurance and the names and locations of clinics and hospitals that you are able to visit on your trip. Better to be safe than sorry.

Purchase Travel Sized Containers for Toiletries 

Do you really want to carry around a large 25 oz. bottle of shampoo for a week-long trip? Not only does it take up space in your suitcase, it adds on extra weight that could instead be used for a souvenir. They are also great for taking liquids on planes!

Count your days

This will help you decide how many outfits you need to take with you. Lay them out before you pack them and try and mix and match your garments to create new looks with the same clothes. Practice this technique with your jewellery and shoes as well.

Make a Budget

Everyone loves to spend on a holiday, but no one likes coming home broke. Check the currency rate of your host country and make a budget of what you’d like to spend and what you can spend. Divide it up into days, gifts, souvenirs and food. This will allow you to keep track of your money, and keep it within your spending budget. Let’s face it, we all tend to slip up on vacations, this just makes the slip up slightly manageable.

Prepare your home

Whether you’re going away for a week or a month, it is important to get your home in order before you leave. This is also great if you want to come back home without worrying about domestic tasks. Make sure to empty your refrigerator of things that might go bad, pre-pay your bills, unplug appliances, leave a house key with a friend, make your beds and lock up all doors and windows.

There you go! You are all set to step out and conquer the world.

By N.M.