Traveling is a great way to expand ones horizons. It introduces one to new cultures and ideas, expands ones understanding of the world, and can be extremely fun to boot. However, proper precautions should be taken when traveling. Prior planning and research are important, to minimize sticky situations and unexpected snafu’s. This article will cover some of the required information you should gather before embarking on your journey.
When traveling, never use public computers to check sensitive information such as your credit card statement or bank account. There could be malware that is tracking your personal info.
In countries that you travel to, be aware of the cultural view of how questions are answered. In some places, especially India and Asia, it can be considered very rude to tell someone that you don’t know the answer to their question. Others may simply answer “yes” to any question asked in English. Pay attention to doubtful body language.
Pack some plastic zipper bags. You know you need them to get your liquids and toiletries through security, but extras can always come in handy. You may need a few extra for snacks on the road, as a garbage bag, or as an ice pack in an emergency. Most of all, they come in handy when you are packing to return home and have a soaking wet swimsuit to put in your bag.
Replace the lock on your luggage with a combination lock. Many pieces of luggage come with locks and keys. Keys get lost. Not that it matters. The locks are so cheaply made, they can be broken right off. It would not be a bad idea to discard them entirely and replace them with a sturdier combination lock.
You already know you can’t take drinks with you through security at the airport. But you can definitely take a water bottle as long as it’s empty. Save yourself the two dollars on water you’re going to buy immediately after you get through security – just bring an empty water bottle from home and fill up with icy-fresh fountain water once you’re through.
Locate a restaurant near your hotel if you plan to stay longer than overnight. While many hotels have restaurants built right in, such eateries will be sad, generic affairs offering little to remember. By finding a local restaurant within easy travel distance you will gain access to a little bit of local color.
Ask around on the social networks you frequent for any tips or recommendations of the area you’re planning on visiting. You’ll be surprised just what may come up. Ask what the best hotels are, what the best restaurants are, what places of interest you should visit. Friends usually give the best ideas!
Exploring America’s National Parks is a wonderful experience. While you are out and about in the park it is important to clean up after yourself. It is imperative that we do our part to make sure the parks stay beautiful and clean for everyone to visit in the years to come.
When visiting America’s National Parks, don’t just drive around the park. Get out and explore by foot. It is a great experience to visit the park, and see all that it has to offer. The only way to do that is to find a hiking trail and explore the area.
Take advantage of the hotel’s ice machines when you are traveling. Many people enjoy having a cup of coffee in the morning, but they often dislike the way hotel coffee tastes. The ice machines use filtered water, so try putting ice in the machine the night before and allowing it to melt. The difference in taste between coffee made with filtered water instead of tap water is amazing.
Before hitting the road on a road trip, taking a few safety precautions is essential. If you are going a long distance, make sure to get a tune up on the car. Pack an emergency kit including road flares, maps, water, blankets and food. While on the road, make sure to check your fluid levels and tire pressure every time you fuel up to ensure a smooth ride.
When traveling do not bring large amounts of money with you. You also do not want to appear to have a lot of money. This will make people think they can take advantage of you.
Have someone pick up your mail and newspapers while you travel. A full mailbox and a pile of newspapers is a big sign that a home’s owners are away. Have a friend or family member pick up these theft beacons and ensure you do not come back to a ransacked home.
Always bring the kids’ car seats if you are going to rent a car for a road trip. When you lease a car yours will probably not give a better car seat, so think ahead by bringing your own car seat.
Traveling is not only an enriching experience, but a frustrating one sometimes as well. Whether for business or pleasure, you have to come prepared. Making a list before you go can be very beneficial. Make sure you know the weather of the place you’re going and pack accordingly. Also read up on the prohibited items list at the airport of your choice as it can be a bummer to have to leave something behind.
Check for bed bugs before you pay a dime to stay somewhere. The easiest place to check is underneath the sheets of the bed at the seams. If you see black dots, run don’t walk the other way. It doesn’t matter what they offer you, you do not want to deal with the horrors that will come from staying in a place with bed bugs.
When you are traveling, make sure you have split up some of your money and credit cards. Do not carry all of your available means of getting money with you at one time. Leave some cash or cards at the hotel when you go out. This way, you will always have a back up.
Traveling is one of the greatest experiences one can have in life. The ability to meet new people, explore new places, and learn about new cultures is unprecedented. The tips in this article should serve you well on your exciting adventures.
