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Try traveling, they said. It will be fun, they said. Except when you get ripped off in a tourist trap disguised as a local restaurant, or when you realize your hotel doesn’t accept your credit card, or when you board the wrong train and end up in the bad part of the city, or when you get tricked into thinking you made a generous donation for a good cause except it was not a cause at all.
You see, things like that happen all the time when you travel. But the more experience you have, the more places you have been to, the more likely you are to actually enjoy your time and not worry about all that can go wrong.
So this online thread is a great place to start. “What is your best travel tip that most people don't know?” someone asked on Ask Reddit and we wrapped up the most useful and interesting pieces of advice below. From rolling everything up to fit into your luggage to asking the right people for opinions when abroad, to canceling reservations to get your money back, this is some solid know-how you are likely to be using on your next trip.
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
For photo equipment or all kind of expensive stuff: put some duct tape on it. If it looks broken, nobody wants to steal it.
Human #1,232,867 2 years ago (edited)
❌ Do not use duck tape, fool. It's impossible to remove and will damage your camera if weather get hot. Use this tape instead https://amzn.to/3JefaPv
majandess 2 years ago
Thank you. The concept is good, but I cringed at getting the duct tape off.
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Randolph Croft 2 years ago
I have a couple of (insanely) expensive Leica cameras and I purposely let the paint rub off of it's parts. Looks old and battered. Looks like it's a film camera (I have one, but it's rare that it gets used.) The funny part is, it's a 18-month-old Q2. Looks 20 years old, and works like a superhero.
Jilltdcatlady 2 years ago
Yes! I learned this trick with any tools of the trade that walk off quite offten.
Stephanie Barr 2 years ago
I always traveled with a laptop that was held together with duct tape. No one ever walked off with it.
Mario Strada 2 years ago
Sure. Good idea. I would go easy on the "packing tape over the lens" trick though (as in the photo). I think it would make the AF sluggish.
RELATED:
#2
Who you go with is way more important than where you go.
Ausrine Ciapaite 2 years ago
I agree. It's a completely different experience. I traveled alone twice and it was awesome. I got to talk with locals alot. Learnt so much
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Jodie daubenmire 2 years ago
You can go to the most amazing, magical place. If you are with a stick in the mud, or a complete AH, it's just a place. The color is muted, the food tasteless. Go with someone who will see the beauty with you.
BeepBeepBoopBoop 2 years ago
it is almost every single time. Traveling with someone you don't like can make the whole trip seem worthless and a drag. It can make you question why you even chose to travel at all. I've traveled with someone who had to constantly be out and doing things, which made doing something I wanted to do hard, it was constantly her decisions. not fun lol
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Janet Howe 2 years ago
True. And maybe having someone you trust to pull you away from the cliff when you've gotten too close.
#3
Nobody wakes up early. Like you can wake up before dawn and get fantastic golden hour pics when the city is empty then go back for breakfast and a nap before heading out for lunch.
Like the best city for this is Rome. No one is around and you can get wide shots that would never happen during the day and the lighting is better.
CouchChihuahua 2 years ago
Were the pictures nice! (Pls comment some, i’ve never been to the netherlands)
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Duncan 2 years ago
Nobody wakes up early yeah explain that to my brain please. It's 05:45 am at the moment. I don't need to get up early. I didn't set any alarm clock but still my brain thinks it's a good idea to wake up apparently. And no I didn't went to bed early as well. I went to bed around 1am. And going out to take that one picture of the early city during sunrise. Yeah would be a nice picture. But in that case I'm sure I won't get any sleep till after sunset. Also I will just download that picture of an early city during dawn someone probably took it with a way better camera then I have. I just want some more sleep.
Demosthenes 2 years ago
Like the best like light is like early morning city light, like I like it a lot better!
Visnja P. Hrabal 2 years ago
That's accurate when you are in your home city, too. (Time before) dawn is the best part of the day.
DD62422 2 years ago
That's really a personal opinion. To me, the best part of the day are the wee hours of the morning, especially during a full moon.
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Randolph Croft 2 years ago
Paris - Everyone up late, dinner after midnight - etc. I get a lot of nightlife shots in Paris. But if you want to shoot the venue without too many people, mornings are great. Obviously. But the absolute best is 8am-10am on a Sunday. The few who are up are in church (yay Catholics!)
If you are a pet owner, the chances are you may be reluctant to travel if you don’t have someone you trust to leave your furry friend with. But traveling with pets is a whole new fun adventure, and we reached out to Haley Adams, the creator behind Olive The Travelier, who was happy to share some tips and tricks when traveling with pets. Haley’s dog has been on over 60 flights in just 5 years, more than some people in their whole lifetime!
“The word ‘Travelier’ is a combination of the words 'cavalier' and 'travel'. I am passionate about sharing my everyday dog mom lifestyle, along with dog-friendly traveling tips & adventures for pet parents wanting to live a more intentional life with their dog,” Haley said.
#4
Three things; 1.) bring an orange. If someone you are sitting next to smells bad you can open the orange up as a natural deodorizer. 2.) Bring a spare pair of socks and change socks after you are settled on your flight, train, etc. Put the sweaty socks away in a plastic bag. Dry socks after a long day of travel feel luxurious. 3.) Stupid and Cheerful. A cop stops you in a foreign country? Stupid and cheerful. Never be belligerent. A border guard says your papers aren’t in order? Stupid and cheerful. The airline says you are too late to board? Stupid and cheerful. Cheerful always works better than aggressive. And it transcends culture. I knew an elderly couple who literally drove across the whole of Africa and “stupid and cheerful” was their advice. It’s far harder to punish someone if they simply claim ignorance and are smiling.
Amy 2 years ago
Having sat next to someone on a flight who was constantly burping and smelled of beer, BO, and rotten fish... I'd have been happy to stick the damn orange up my nose at that point.
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Jessica Amber 2 years ago
Absolutely do not change your socks on a plane or a train unless it's in the bathroom. That's pretty inconsiderate to your fellow seat mates to suddenly whip out your stinky sweaty feet. Terrible advice.
rorschach-penguin 2 years ago
Except it's often against customs regulations to cross the border with fresh fruit or produce.
Marylyn Tippeconnic 2 years ago
I have a modern day solution but it does cost I handful of dollars. The company Poo-Pourri has these little travel size sprayers full of their essential deodorizers and they really come and really work. Meant mainly for the restroom but they work just as well to cover up any scent and they're Less Than 3 oz. I think maybe they're barely an ounce and they're very small. You can put it in your little ziplock bag with no problem it will go through TSA and cross borders with no problem. Stick it in your carry-on and then as soon as you get boarded on the plane take it out and put it in your pocket or your purse. If you need to use it and don't want to look conspicuous act like you're applying perfume to your wrists. It has worked for me a few times.
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Sean Simpson 2 years ago
Re: #3 I can’t count how many times I’ve thought “this is literally a moment where the you would catch more flies with honey than vinegar” while watching a person scream and yell because something has mildly inconvenienced them.
Jodie daubenmire 2 years ago
The visitor has no grounds for complaining about what happens in other countries. So, Karen and Donald. Stay home.. Florida misses you when you aren't polluting the air with false Christian views.
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Cassi Lyris 2 years ago
"It's my first day." Stupid and cheerful. 😂 It does work, though. Just don't be a dìck. Doesn't matter where you are.
Hagen Radcliffe 2 years ago
AND, if you’re still being stupid & cheerful and the Karen/Darren continues to rant, rave, scream etc. the surrounding people tend to be on your side, stick up for you & help to smack down the crazed di*k head ! win win 😁
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Lyuben Petkov 2 years ago
I was asked for bribes by border police (few times) and playing being stupid really is flowless way to go trough
R Dennis 2 years ago
I drove from Cancun to Progreso and arrived at night. While trying to park near the hotel, I did a right side dip into a parking space. I did not know the little arrows on the poles means 'one way'. Two police officers pulled up with lights. Neither spoke English and I had my wife try to translate with her phone. They called their supervisor and he came up - he also didn't speak English. After about 5-10 minutes of all this, he sighs and says "precaution" and walks away while I smile and promise to be careful. As soon as they leave, I tell my wife it was a one way street and they wanted me to pay a spot fine or they were going to take my plate to the station and I would have to pay a bigger fine... stupid and cheerful... Oh, we grew up in Mexicantown in SW Detroit, I took Spanish in school, and hung out with people who emigrated from Mexico. My wife doesn't speak Spanish, but her family is from Oaxaca and the rest of her family is fluent.
Ausrine Ciapaite 2 years ago
From my working experience in the airport I can tell you that it works. If you miss your flight (your fault) and you go to the airline desk and you clearly don't speak the language, they will just book you a next available flight just so they can get get rid of you faster. 😆
#5
I don't travel much but I book travel for a living.
If your plans change and you need to cancel your hotel reservation against the hotel's cancellation policy, don't call and cancel. I've tried to barter with hotels many times, but truthfully unless you have a good relationship with the hotel, they have no reason to refund you.
Instead, call the hotel and move your reservation to next week. Even if it is against the cancellation policy, most hotels will allow you to alter a reservation without issue. Then (usually a few hour later to guarantee you talk to a different hotel rep) call and cancel your "new" reservation.
Cassi Lyris 2 years ago
Yup. Just keep in mind, rules that cannot be broken can usually be bent.
Ausrine Ciapaite 2 years ago
I'd say call 12 hours later. The staff in the hotel practically live there. Sometimes they don't even leave - they just stay in the hotel overnight
Paul Sanders 2 years ago
I travel for work and of the 150 or so nights a year I sleep in hotels, an occasional mistake happens. I have found that number fours advice on "stupid and cheerful" works best for me. "Hey, the dummy I am, I booked a room Oregon but I'm in Colorado, any way you could help me out?" It works 9 out 10 times.
Maggie Hood 2 years ago
I think you can do that with doctor's appointments as well but I'm not sure
Tiano Poletto 2 years ago
And that's why, as receptionist, I refuse every single modification not specifically allowed by annulation's policy. We tend to prefere a honest call and, if possible, a prove of your problem than a jocking us...in that case we will be happy to transform the already paid amount to a credit to use in another moment.
#6
Download the entire city map on google maps for offline use.
Cassi Lyris 2 years ago
*and make sure your phone is fully charged/you have the travel charger with you!
LesAnimaux 2 years ago
Even more better: buy a local SIM card and use that if you need to use the internet along the way.
Marley Nachi 2 years ago
yes! Don't rely on roaming data even if you payed for overseas coverage (unless you get a local sim)
Emmaline Yuzu 2 years ago
Agree..I took screenshots and photos of maps so I wouldn't need data.
The first mistake people make when traveling with a pet, a dog in particular, is not allowing enough time to train their dog in their travel carrier. “Expecting your dog to be comfortable and anxiety-free in their travel carrier after only a week of training isn’t quite realistic (especially if your dog isn’t used to being in a carrier, kennel/crate, etc…).”
Haley argues that it’s best to start practicing the travel carrier with your dog. “Even if you haven’t booked a flight, you want as much time as possible to naturally and consistently let your dog become comfortable in their travel carrier. It’s not too early to start training your dog in their carrier for carrier recommendations,” she said.
#7
Have a distinct hat.
* Meeting up with strangers / couchsurfers / tour group? You're the person in the hat.
* When talking with officials, the act of taking off a hat shows obedience to authority and will make the interaction just that much smoother.
* When you're tucking in for the night, putting keys, coins, that new bus pass, &c. in the (upside-down) hat so they don't get misplaced in a new place.
* Similarly, the (upside-down) hat can be used to store pocket junk before you go through an x-ray checkpoint.
* Does all the normal hat things. (Keep warm / cool, less sun, covers eyes, &c.) * A hat soaked in water can feel amazing on a hot day. * You can tuck a handkerchief (or even a napkin) up into a hat to give your neck and ears cover from the sun.
* A rolled travel towel (don't panic and [...]) can be folded into a hat to make an impromptu pillow.
* A hat on a chair or similar can help hold a spot when customs (or languages) are unfamiliar.
Finally, this is not a *travel* tip, but post-travel: if you buy a hat for a trip and limit souvenirs to pins & patches, you have created a little display that's a bit more interesting than "here are photos on my phone".
ShellsBells 2 years ago
Hat advice: Wear a brightly colored beret in Paris. The locals welcome you with open arms and treat you like their own.
Kim Kermes 2 years ago
I have an actual Turkish towel that's thinner than regular towels and can be a wrap, a beach towel, a picnic cloth, a table cloth, a sunshade with an umbrella, and anything else I can think of. Very hoopy.
Šimon Špaček 2 years ago
Don't forget that gentleman should only decorate left side of hat, on right side you can put special, one day achievments.
#8
I'm sure I'm preaching to the choir here, but whenever I travel i go to the subreddit for the city I'm traveling to and search for a "best food in the city" thread. Never let me down before. I've found some amazing hidden gems that way
Jody Whitmarsh 2 years ago
At least in America, asking a cop for the best food has always worked. They know the little hole in the wall places
oddly_informed_raven 2 years ago
did that in Pittsburgh and the food was amazing
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Kate Haslam 2 years ago
Just to add: search for existing threads, definitely. If you post a new thread to r/LosAngeles, for example, the majority of the answers you get will be sarcastic at best.
Jodie daubenmire 2 years ago
Very smart.. but sometimes, if you speak to your Hotel staff, they will send you to the Mom n Pop, not on the radar for Internet information. And sometimes, they will help you order it to go, and you get a taste of the culture!!
Adam Bidlack 2 years ago
Did that once when I went to Nashville. We asked for a good pizza place but the pizza wasn't that great.
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Noname 2 years ago
You can reach the website they the following link. https://www.reddit.com They also have app to download to your phone. It is some sort of a forum website. You might like it, just click on the link and have a look around.
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OmBoyGanesh 2 years ago (edited)
If I have enough time before traveling, I try to reach out to locals who are interested in meeting up and showing me around. Reddit is awesome for advice/tidbits. ShowAround will hook you up with cool locals to guide ya. EatWith does as the name implies. If you have a hobby you can find locals on specific sites. GoodReads, PSN/Xbox. I’ve found trying to meet locals 6 months out until departure makes great connections. This has saved me more than once in SE Asia, Eastern Europe, Africa & the Caribbean .
#9
Roll everything, fold nothing
Otto Katz 2 years ago
I never understood this one. Is it so you can find it easier? because it takes the same volume in your suitcase
Akucdota 2 years ago
It fits much easier in the suitcase, so in the end takes up less space + you do not need to iron the clothes
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Upstaged75 2 years ago
Packing cubes have been a life changer for me when I travel. You put stuff in them and then they zip down and compress. It saves SO much room and keeps your clothes from wrinkling. They come in different sizes so you can put pants/shirts in one and underwear in another. I have a pack of 4. Just fill them up and toss in your suitcase!
Nizumi 2 years ago
I've tried this and it just doesn't work for me. Everything is just as wrinkled. So I use packing cubes. Absolutely the best option for me! I always reach a point when I realize I won't be wearing some things again, so I wash them, and then put them in one of the cubes, using a twist tie to keep the cube closed. This way I know that's the clean clothes cube and I don't need to touch it again. When I get home, everything in there can go straight back to the dresser. Easy peasy!
Kim Kermes 2 years ago
I. Lay everything flat, then fold over what sticks out when everything is in. Shoes or fragile items in the middle. Faster.
Janet Howe 2 years ago
Good tip. I even do this in my own dresser at home. Especially good for tshirts, tank tops and shorts.
René Kok 2 years ago
It's all about the roll technique, lay tshirt flat, put underwear flat on top. Then put socks halfway on the t-shirt on both sides with the openings on the outside. Roll it tight and then strech the socks over the roll. Now you have your day cloths burrito! If you travel alot do it at home. Going away for 3 days, take 3 rolls!
Beth D 2 years ago
Travel Packing Bags! Love them! Things stay neat, easy to find and Repack if your trip has more than 1 destination
Teresa Spanics 2 years ago
I would need to know where I can buy some here on the West Coast of Canada.
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Haley also said it’s important to remember her “B.A.R.K.S.S.” acronym for carrier training.
“Begin Early: The more time you have, the better! Awareness: Let your dog become familiar with the carrier, don’t force them inside. Let them enter as they please, try using treats to help them go in the carrier. Reward: Be sure to reward them with treats. Keep Increasing Time: slowly work on increasing time they’re in the carrier, with it open and closed. Switch It Up: Once your dog is comfortable in the carrier, take them out to a pet-friendly store, road trip, etc… in their carrier. Get them comfortable in all different kinds of environments. Stay Consistent: Keep practicing, don’t stop because you think they’ve gotten used to it, it needs to be normal.”
#10
Take a plastic bag with you. Put dirty clothes in it, it keeps clean and dirty separated throughout your stay, plus when you get home it's easier to take all the clothes in the bag and put them in the washing machine.
WindySwede 2 years ago
Put them in a freezer to get rid of exciting bugs entering your home :)
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CalicoKitty 2 years ago
Bring more than one plastic bag, just in case stuff gets wet/soiled and you don't want EVERYTHING to be soggy/covered in mud, or your clothes turn out to be a little more voluminous than you expected them to be.
Janet Howe 2 years ago
I always do that. Also I put shoes in plastic bags. If you've been walking around all day, you don't want to put dirty shoes next to clean clothes. Air those shoes out, however, before you pack them away. Otherwise you will be sorry. LOL.
Elisa Torres 2 years ago
Always a good reminder. I tend to forget when there's 50 other things to remember.
#11
The best room in a cheaper hotel is often better than a standard room in a more expensive hotel. When looking for luxury on a budget, don't overlook the cheaper hotels - they often have fantastic suites for what you'd pay for a standard room somewhere pricier.
Robert T 2 years ago
If you are looking for a cooked breakfast, smaller hotels are usually better as they will make it fresh, larger hotels tend to be a hot buffet.
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meow point1 2 years ago
My parents have both gone to cheaper hotels, and heard *shooting* in there.
rob 2 years ago (edited)
As in multiple times? Your parents were in cheaper hotels with gunfights in them? Or are you talking about sex when you say *shooting* because that happens in all hotels no matter the cost.
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Jrog 2 years ago
My direct experience is opposite of this. Better have a standard room in a nice place than a suite in a s*ithole. It's often cheaper and you can enjoy the better facilities and location of a nice hotel. Rundown hotels may have one or two renovated rooms they sell as suites, but the rest of the place will not be up to standards.
Rebecca 2 years ago
It's not more, that's the point. I got a great deal on a room near Heathrow in a less expensive chain & when I got to my room it had been upgraded to a suite like that with an awesome bathroom. Every bit as nice and less than half the price of even the Best Western. ♥️♥️♥️
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Let your family back home know your travel itinerary.
Becky Samuel 2 years ago
Always file a flight plan with someone you trust. Arrange times when you will check in with them. If nobody knows that you're missing then you're in trouble.
What does this button do? 2 years ago
Best bet, set up a TripIt account - free is fine, don't need to pay for the premium if you don't travel a huge amount. Forward all of your hotel/flight/rental car/restaurant reservations to plans@tripit using the email address you registered with. Then share the itinerary from TripIt to a few folks. It gives them the info on where you are, what airlines and flights you should be on, hotels to find you if there's an emergecy back home - and it gives you a single place to look to see what hotel you had booked for tonight (and to make sure you don't accidentally double book. 30+ years of traveling for a living and this is probably my best travel tip.
What does this button do? 2 years ago
Not just that - so they can find you if you're out of cell coverage and there's an emergency back home. Knowing what flights/hotels you'll be using can make that possible. Obviously yes, in case you go missing also...
Load More Replies...Another common mistake people make when traveling with dogs is letting them walk in the airport after a long travel day. “The reason you should avoid this is because walking can activate their bladder/bowels after a long travel day. Next thing you know, your dog is popping a squat in the middle of the airport…” Instead, Haley recommends keeping them in their carrier until they have the opportunity to relieve themselves.
#13
If you're asking for an opinion, don't ask the opinion of someone who's being paid to provide it.
Want to know where the best meal near your hotel is? The cleaner isn't getting a kickback from the nearest steakhouse, but the concierge probably is.
Want to know the easiest way to get to the airport? The front desk clerk is going to tell you to hire the hotel preferred transfer, but the barman will probably tell you what train to catch for 1/20th of the price.
Marcellus II 2 years ago
It often does however, the business invests in attracting people that don't come back instead of building loyal clientele -- that's enough of a hint. You ask your taxi driver for the best restaurant? He'll drive you far out of the way to his uncle's place, however terrible it is.
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The Scout 2 years ago
Once in Tunisia, I asked a server I was on good terms with where he got his lunch. He hesitated a bit but finally told me. Someone had built a grill stand in the backyard of a hotel with some wood and an old rusty container - selling easily the best shawarma to go I had ever eaten.
Zina Monceaux 2 years ago
I got a bad restaurant referral from concierge when in NOLA. I got rice that wasn’t cooked. Twice! I told the concierge the next day. He pulled their business cards right then.
NotAWokeBloke 2 years ago
In regard to hotels....do it the opposite way Pandas. When checking in at the desk, slip the clerk waiting on you a $5 or $10 spot.....and they will go the extra mile for you later. Whether getting you extra towels, accommodating a late check out, or advising you about the best steakhouse in town, etc...fact you took care of them, they will want to take care of you. Especially if you are a multiple day guest, there are innumerable ways they can be more helpful to you in the future....you never know what may pop up. Always tip the hotel staff even if just a smidge, it will more than likely payoff/benefit you greater than your initial monetary sacrifice.
Kieran Maloy 2 years ago
In the US, look for a restaurant that has LOTS of local plates on the cars in the parking lot.
#14
Chill at the airport. We are trying to get somewhere. Keep moving in lines. Take your friggin earphones out for flight/gate announcements. Know what documents you need for checking in (passport), security (your ticket), customs (passport and sometimes ticket), gate (passport and ticket).
Be a d**k and you will get treated like a d**k.
SelkieBlackfysh 2 years ago
Tbh it's a piece of life advice more people need. Too many people think screaming and berating people will get them what they want and failing that, collapsing and playing victim.
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RockSteady 2 years ago
Seriously. How do people still not know how to airport? Yesterday some lady put her entire bin and bag on top of mine in the security line. I said, "please don't put your stuff on top of mine" firmly but politely and she went off on me. She cracked the top of my laptop but she was gone by the time I saw.
Luke T 2 years ago
Had my first flight in November. Followed all these rules without thinking about it. All seemed rather obvious. So yeah...I dunno why people are like that.
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Susan Green 2 years ago (edited)
Yes, always be polite. If your flight is delayed or cancelled, just remember it’s not the fault of the ticket agents, etc.
Teresa Spanics 2 years ago
My half-brother's late male partner, my brother-in-law, did that at an airport when he was waiting for his flight. When it was announced it was overbooked, a lady ahead of him at the desk went off on the staff. When my brother-in-law got to the desk, he politely asked if they knew of another flight he could take to get home and when it was leaving. That staff was so happy about his attitude that they immediately changed in his flight ticket at no cost and got him to the other flight. The lady with the attitude went off about not getting the same thing.
#15
Make sure your shower gets hot when you get to your room.... not after you come back tired from exploring and all you want to do is take a hot shower, but it's after midnight and there's no maintenance person around
Joshua David 2 years ago
I'm so awkward with things like this, id adapt to a fast cold shower.
Anna Repp 2 years ago
I checked into an apartment once and they had such complicated fancy shower, I could not figure out how to make the water warm! It was a weekend and the maintenance was not available, so I took cold showers for two days in a row!
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OnigiRin Chan OwO 2 years ago
As a cold shower kinda person, I'm happy I don't have to deal with this lol. They're heckin refreshing and soothing
Lori Martin 2 years ago
Too add to this, check to see if your shower drains properly beforehand. Made this mistake once trying to rush through a stand up shower because it was about to flood the bathroom.
Tardis42 2 years ago
So often now, they don't fix anything. They don't have staff that cleans regularly, you think they provide maintenance for anything other than the direst of emergency situations. Your water is exploding out of the bathroom into the rest of the suite? Maybe. Your water is cold? "We'll certainly have maintenance look into that" ...and that's the last you'll hear from them.
“Try to not sit towards the back of an aircraft when flying with a dog. It is a lot louder and bumpier! Thus, increasing your dog’s likeliness to become more anxious and distressed,” Haley said about another faux pas.
She reminds dog owners that during take-off and landing, it’s 100% normal if your dog begins to become slightly anxious, confused, and/or scared. “However, certain aircrafts have louder acoustics because they’re older and the engines are bigger. The newer the airplane the quieter it’ll be (ex: 737 Max 8- more quiet). Knowing what aircraft you are flying can help you prepare!”
Haley’s advice is to sit closer to the front of the plane or in front of the plane engines, which will help diminish both sound and bumps.
#17
* Never eat where you see other tourists eating. Look for a place jammed with locals.
* Never let anyone “take” you anywhere. This applies especially to taxi drivers and random strangers.
* Don’t bring anything you “might” need and can acquire locally if you do.
* Pack n+1 pairs of underwear, where n is the smaller of the number of days you will be away and 6.
Robert T 2 years ago
I don't have a problem eating where other tourists are eating, especially if you can see what they are eating and it looks good. Avoid places that have nobody eating, or that employ hawkers to lure you in.
Robert T 2 years ago
Translation: Bring a spare pair of underwear in case you s**t youself. You should not need more than 7 pairs.
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Jill Allen 2 years ago
I live in Nashville. I can ALWAYS tell. By the cowboy boots and cowboy hats. Locals don't really wear them. Lol
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Julie Bradley 2 years ago
Don't get sucked in by the taxi driver wanting to take you to his "cousin's" shop. haha
Karen Philpott 2 years ago
Take any prescription medication with you and enough to cover extra days if there are delays. I've heard you may need a note from your doctor? To explain the what and why, but I'm not sure.
#18
If you are alone and don't know where to go or what to do in a non English speaking city, go to the Irish pub, they will be kind and helpful and you can have a pint.
Robert T 2 years ago
But be prepared that they may take the p**s out of you for being English. ;-)
PunnyPanda 2 years ago
At least in the us when traveling in an unfamiliar place, I head to the closest gay bar. Usually super friendly, happy to be helpful and more drink variety than a beer and a shot!
Seth 2 years ago
There are at least 7000 Irish Pubs in 53 different countries, many of which are non-English speaking.
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feer Zetta 2 years ago
I love that the reference picture is The Killkenny in Buenos Aires, my hometown. I’ve met some really interesting people at that place!
#19
Try searching for flights in the airline’s original language. I once saved $700 booking tickets in Peru by using Spanish rather than English.
Mia Hamsa 2 years ago
And incognito windows in Chrome so the site doesn't track your searches/overcharge you.
GraphicHealer 2 years ago (edited)
Also, if you have a vpn, if the site works with it, it will drop the price if you set it to the same country that you're traveling to (or nearby at least).
Load More Replies... Yitzhak Cohen 2 years ago
Just an fyi, incognito still allows Google and other sites to track you. Incognito just doesn't save your browsing history of your incognito tab on your device. However, Google/advertisers and others can still track your web history and searches etc. Incognito does nothing in the way of helping you protect your anonymity and privacy online. The only thing that can actually do that is a vpn.
#20
Make a safe out of a toothpaste tube for your money. Cut off the end, rinse it out, keep the cap on, roll up your money and put inside and roll up the tube to hide the end that you cut. Most likely won't get toothpaste stolen.
Lori Martin 2 years ago
It's funny because I have had my toothpaste disappear from my hotel room.
Ahni Alger 2 years ago
What kind? Was it expensive? Was that the only thing taken? I have questions and I need answers.😂
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Paul Vasquez 2 years ago
How do you "roll up" a toothpaste tube that's made of flexible plastic? They're not made of metal anymore.
Midnight Vampryss 2 years ago
They make water bottles and hair brushes that you can hide your valuables in. They work a million times better and you wont accidentally throw them out
#21
When flights get canceled, don’t stand in line to talk to an agent. Call the airline.
RedCorvette 2 years ago
Funny how Air Canada is in the picture. Yeah, never flying them again.
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dhira nasir 2 years ago
This is only applicable if you want to rebook your flight to a different time or date. If you want to get hotel, meals or transport voucher only the duty manager at the airport have the authority to issue them.
MelO 2 years ago
I do both simultaneously. If it's a long line, hop in line, and call the airline. I can "skip ahead" of the people in front of me for the rebooking. Then when I finally get to the front, I tell them I'm already rebooked, and just need my vouchers. No less time in line, but if everyone in my flight is trying to rebook, I can (hopefully) beat them to a seat on the next flight this way.
Load More Replies... What does this button do? 2 years ago
Stand in the line - but call the airline while you're in the line. If you get put on hold, while you wait, use the alrline app... I make it a contest between the three to see which gets me rebooked first. So far, the app is ahead by a long margin - but flying enough to have decent status helps.
Pierre Brault 2 years ago
I'm Canadian and I avoid Air Canacrap at all cost.They are the worst
T Ted 2 years ago
Book alternative flight on credit card ASAP so you get a seat before those ahead of you in the desk or phone lines. Claim your refund and compensation for original flight immediately and good chance it'll be in your bank or refunded to your card before the new bill arrives. Rarely hate a cancelled flight. The compensation (at least for European regulated flights) can mean you end up getting paid to fly.
#22
Travel with good company that wants the same as you do. Having the wrong people around you on a trip can make you scared for life with them and never make you wanna go again no matter if it was only 1 person who did the whole group wrong.
Temxas Red 2 years ago
Traveled with a group. Had to split into rooms. My roommate tried to pour sunscreen in my ears while I was asleep "as a prank"
Dog lover 1 year ago
People who are like this should be avoided at ALL costs.
Load More Replies... Cassi Lyris 2 years ago
If you're a disabled person (such as myself) make sure your travel companions understand your physical limitations. I can't tell you the number of times I spent left alone in a hotel room because "friends" booked shìt I couldn't do. It's not like I wanted to keep them from doing those things, it just hurts being forgotten about...
Janet Howe 2 years ago
Talk over expectations of the trip with all your companions. What you want to see and do. Things can go wrong, even if you all are the best of friends. Spending 24/7 is different. It can bring out the worst in people. Or the best in people. Maybe you never knew your buddy snores or throws his stinky socks all over. Maybe your best girlfriend leaves ALL of her cosmetics and toiletries in the 2 square ft of sink counter. And leaves toothpaste all over the sink. You've got to look beyond all of these things, and find patience and tolerance. If you are the kind of person who can't tolerate these types of issues, then rethink your traveling plans.
Private Caller 2 years ago
I had a travel buddy board the plane while i was going through the security line. Like who does that. Or is that just me.
James Frail 2 years ago
Someone who wants to make the flight? Someone who is on time? I mean, unless this story took place in a small airport more than 22 years ago, if you're still in the security line within the 30 or so minutes before takeoff that is when boarding begins, I wouldn't bet any amount of money on you getting on that plane.
Load More Replies... #23
Grab one of the mini sized bar soaps or bath gel from your hotel and bring it with you when you go sight seeing. Often bathrooms won't have hand soap (more likely in international destinations) and you will want to wash your hands with soap. Especially before a meal. I wrap the bar soap in a small plastic bag or a plastic hair cap that it often provided at hotels.
Mani Lacao 2 years ago
"Often bathrooms won't have hand soap (more likely in international destinations)" what international destination ?
Nicola Roberts 2 years ago
Let's be honest here, I'm just as likely to find no soap in the local pub as I am beach bar in Bali. Along the same lines I always carry a small packet of tissue. Nothing like an outdoor festival to make you evaluate your decisions that day.
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Cassi Lyris 2 years ago
Yes, a lot of other countries expect you to carry your own: soap, TP, and hand towels. And no, not just "third world" countries either.
Amberlie Mikelsen 2 years ago
The lack of soap is actually kinda common in small businesses (mom&pop restaurants and shops, if they even have a public restroom) worldwide. I personally prefer and recommend keeping a small bottle of hand sanitizer on your person and a larger bottle in your checked bag (or your car) that you can refill the small one from.
Teresa Spanics 2 years ago
I have done that! You would be surprised how convenient they are for travel.
Julie Bradley 2 years ago
Take a face cloth with you to dry your hands. I learnt this in Japan.
#24
No one cares about you wearing the same thing more than once. Pack light and wash your stuff every few days.
Do not entertain people asking questions in other countries.
Know the rules/laws/currency exchange rates for the country you are going to. Ignorance is not a get out of jail free card.
Kate Jones 2 years ago
I stayed at a hotel that I found out ahead of time had a laundry room for customers. I brought 2 interchangeable outfits in a carry-on bag and a bathing suit and nothing else. It was amazing. I didn't mind washing my clothes and reusing them. Some hotels also offer dry cleaning service for a fee. Most of the time in warm weather environments, everyone thinks they're going to get dressed up everyday and you get there and end up just wearing a bathing suit and cover up or a tshirt and shorts. No one cares. Everyone looks the same way. Everyone just wants to be comfortable. Also another tip for US travelers- don't do your currency exchange at the airport or in the country you travel to or even at your bank. The rates are ridiculous. AAA does currency exchange and it's fairly inexpensive. Go to a local AAA if you have one.
Rebecca 2 years ago
Another tip for US travelers is to get a Capital One bank account and debit card. No fees at foreign ATMs in Europe if you use the free ones and even the ones in countries that don't have free ATMs have service charges that are less than currency exchanges. Also, always choose local currency for purchases so the bank does the conversion, which is cheapest.
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Brenda White 2 years ago
I've traveled throughout Canada, Ireland, Scotland,France, Italy,and Switzerland (bicycling) with very few clothes. I found thrift shops in every location. I'd also pack leggings and tops I was ready to recycle so I'd just toss them and happily wear my "new" bargains
Beto River 2 years ago
don't get the Do not entertain people asking questions in other countries one...
Matthew 2 years ago
Around major tourist destinations this is often the prelude to a scam or a distraction for a pickpocket partner.
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Patrick Herak 2 years ago
I’ve got several sets of underwear (exofficio and socks (swiftwick) that dry overnight. It’s so helpful to pack only a few and do laundry in the shower or sink knowing it will dry out quickly.
#25
Just because you're from another country doesn't mean everyone is happy to meet you.
Mani Lacao 2 years ago
Just because you travel to a country and spend money there does not mean locals owe you s***
Janet Howe 2 years ago
True. I was fortunate to be able to spend many winters in HI. If you treat people with respect, and smile, you'll be treated the same in return. I never had a problem. Learn a little about the state and it's history. Treat servers nicely. And, above all, treat their land and their culture with respect. Don't travel into sacred areas. If you aren't an AH, you are less likely to be called a "haole."
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Michael Largey 2 years ago
Just because you're from the same country doesn't mean everyone is happy to meet you.
Randolph Croft 2 years ago
Tourists can be a heavy load for a community to carry. But one thing that's important to realize, for everyone, is that it's one of the few industries that's growing where nothing else is.
Janet Howe 2 years ago
Before you travel to other countries, you had better familiarize yourself with local customs. The reason countries don't like us is because so many of us are AHs. Don't poke fun of their dress. Don't stomp all over their traditions and religions. If there are sacred places or areas, don't just assume you can walk thru. Women, if the custom of the country requires women to cover their heads, do it. Out of respect. Wherever you are, just remember you're a guest. Then maybe people won't call us "ugly Americans."
David Cerrato 2 years ago
Goes both ways. Foreigners from abroad don't bother to learn American customs and act like buffoons all the time here. I used to work as a guard for a very popular tourist district in Miami, Florida, and the tourists were not the most self aware or considerate folks most of the time.
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DaVida DeVito 2 years ago
I live in a small tourist town on the beach, our hospital is small and doesn’t have a lot of equipment that city hospitals do. So there were signs like this everywhere during covid😆 like seriously, go home
30_Helens_Agree 2 years ago
Ahh yes, Americans are the absolute only people in the world who could ever act obnoxious. 🙄
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#26
While you’re standing in the security line, take the stuff in your pockets and put it in your bag. You won’t be holding up the line to gather your stuff from the container.
Robert T 2 years ago
In most airports there are separate areas for you to take your trays and repack your stuff and reclothe yourself. Just try not to lose your pants as you make your way over there without your belt!
Rachel Watford 2 years ago
It always annoyed me that people will repack and put on their shoes right next to the machine instead of walking 10 ft down to give others room to grab their stuff
Load More Replies... Karen Philpott 2 years ago
Talking about security lines, what do you do about prescription meds that you must carry with you, and any needles etc that you may need?
Steve- YYZ 2 years ago
I have a woven belt with a plastic fastex buckle just for airports. No beeps at all.
Curry on... 2 years ago
The line I was in was held up because of one bottle of fingernail polish --- which was allowed.
foryouwhynot IB 2 years ago
Better yet, don’t keep things in your pockets while away from home…that’s just asking for someone to take your stuff!
Janet Howe 2 years ago
Funny, but not funny. The last 5 years we traveled, my partner had both a knee replacement and a pacemaker. Because those are implants, you're always given cards for each, to keep and use at airports and in case of emergencies. You have to be hand scanned. And by then, he also had a walker with him and got wheelchair assistance upon entering the airport. Even with all the documentation, 1st class tix, and the fact he was over 70, and partially disabled, TSA made him get out of the wheelchair, take his shoes off, made him strip down to his underwear, to check him thru. It was really difficult. And they had to have 2 or 3 TSA staff to assist him. Took almost a half hour. I had a back brace and also got wheelchair assistance entering the airport. At least I was able to stand, take my brace off, and walk thru the security detector. If we had traveled 1 more year, I would have spent the $100 apiece for the extra security clearance. People who are disabled don't stand a chance.
Janet Howe 2 years ago
I was lucky. I was able to walk. Only reason I had a wheelchair was bc I have back problems and can't walk the full length of an airport.
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Gamygin 2 years ago
I travel nearly 200 days out of a year. Hundreds of flights. Global Entry. TSA Pre-Check. This is the one piece of advice (out of two) that I ALWAYS give. One main luggage piece that is always checked in. Yeah it can be expensive, but if you have a connecting flight, just remember that you will de-plane and get to the new terminal before they will get your bag onboard. My carry-on is my backpack. Right before I get to the security point I put everything in the front pouch of my bag. Cellphone, money clip, watch, etc. Go through the checkpoint, grab my backpack and on my way to my terminal.
#27
Plan ahead:
1) Allow time for things to go wrong.
2) If travelling long distance don’t leave ‘just in time’, better to arrive early. The further you’re travelling leave even earlier. eg. If your friend is getting married on Saturday and it’s a four hour drive, leave Friday lunchtime not Friday evening. If it’s a transatlantic flight away leave Wednesday or Thursday morning, not Friday.
3) It’s going to cost more than you think.
Ozzyols 2 years ago
We had friends that were flying across the country to meet up with a Cruise ship (pre pandemic). They arrived in Sydney at 9am on the morning the ship was leaving, but owing to delays and heavy traffic, they arrived too late to get onto the vessel before departure. They had to pay extra to fly to New Zealand to pick the cruise. Never understand why people leave things like that to the last minute!
Janet Howe 2 years ago
I saw a home video from people on deck of the cruise ship filming people RUNNING down on the dock, trying to catch up to ship as it was already leaving the dock. Futile attempt.
Load More Replies... Steve- YYZ 2 years ago
If you're touring a foreign destination, alwayse arrive back in your departure city the day/evening before your international flight. Buying a new ticket because you missed your flight as a no-show is a very expensive mistake!
Michelle Carlson 2 years ago
#2 is especially pertinent for cruises! That ship isn't going to wait for you because you got stuck in traffic heading to the pier to be "just in time" for sail away.
#28
1. Learn basic words/phrases of the country's language you are traveling to. This will help you more than you think.
2. Make sure you have a universal adaptor. And a portable charger
3. (speaking for the US) You most likely have an e-passport, it's that little Pokemon ball looking emblem at the bottom of the cover. Utilize those e-gates at the airport.
4. Don't convert your cash. Just use your debit/credit or withdraw money from an ATM when you get there.
5. Call your bank in advanced if you're traveling internationally unless your bank app has a feature where you can automatically turn on international purchases.
6. If you land early in the morning and check-in isn't for another couple hours, ask your hotel/hostel if you can drop your bags off until check in.
7. Get shower shoes if you're staying in a hostel.
8. Free up phone storage before you leave for your trip.
Robert T 2 years ago (edited)
4. Do not use your credit card to withdraw cash unless it is an emergency. You will be charged interest on it from the day you withdraw it, as it is treated as a cash advance. Debit/ATM card on the other hand can actually get you a better exchange rate than changing money. Credit card for purchases can similarly give a better exchange rate. If you can get a little bit of the local currency beforehand it saves having to immediately look for an ATM. When I did multiple trips to the same country I would keep a little bit of cash from my previous trip and take it with me on the next visit.
Šimon Špaček 2 years ago
And when you draw money from ATM, you want to decline conversion. It can be 20-30% difference. Let's say that you want to draw 100 USD. Do you want to pay 105 for it (bank conversion costs something), or do you want to pay 130 USD?
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KM 2 years ago
Number 4 is often wrong and sometimes outright impossible. My opinion: if you want to use your card read up in advance whether there are ATMs available and if it's possible to pay by card, learn from your bank what conversion fees they have for payments with cards and withdrawals from ATMs, if paying with a card, learn what's the main currency for your card is (it might change the number of conversions your transactions will go through). None of that really matters if your spending budget is pretty big, but if the money's tight could make a difference. Also, always have at least some cash on local currency for emergencies.
Matthew 2 years ago
Yep. Credit works great with a no ForEx fee card in Europe. In Mexico you need cash away from the resorts and chains, but cards can handle a lot of things now at grocery stores and larger restaurants. There are still places that finding ANYWHERE that takes a card is really hard.
Load More Replies... Šimon Špaček 2 years ago
Another thing, write down name and address of the place where you stay. If you travel to Europe, get names of close public transport stations. Even if you meet someone who doesn't speak your language, they can read the name and will probably guide you in the right direction.
Monica Houghton 2 years ago
Always bring some local currency - always. I have on multiple occasions had issues: my card frozen due to daily limit from the hotel hold, atm's that didn't work, atm not working in a specific country, needing cash before i found an atm and cards not accepted. Always have some, it can be a life saver.
T Ted 2 years ago
Get a multi currency online bank account like Revolut, Wise or N26, and exchange money into your destination currency at mid market rate. Keep an eye on the rates in the weeks before you go and exchange the currency when you're getting best value. You can use to make purchases with your card, Google/Apple pay or withdraw money Most have a fee free option that have some limitations on amount exchanged or withdrawn per month but would cover most people. The fee versions often have useful perks like travel insurance, lounge access and greater allowances that can make it worth the small monthly fee if you travel a few times per year or are going on an extended break. If you do need more local currency while you're away, you can just use your normal banking app to transfer more money to your travel card then exchange it to your local currency pot. Just don't exchange money between the currency pots at the weekend if you can avoid it as weekend trades often comes with an extra fee.
#29
Pack light, you need fewer things than you realize. Buy things like shower gel at the destination, don't bother carrying cheap stuff you can just buy again easily. Pack flexible outfits that all go together. Dress comfortably especially shoes.
NoiseMaker 2 years ago
I quite sure a lot of people has done this. I even know of people traveling from the north of Europe to middle Europe, finding it much colder than expected upon arrival.
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Amberlie Mikelsen 2 years ago
You can never go wrong with an all black wardrobe (unless wherever you're headed is a desert with 110°F+ temps daily, then khaki is your best option)
#30
I bring old underwear, socks, clothes the kids are about to outgrow, etc, and then throw them out before we leave to make room for souvenirs.
Also, if you are bringing water bottles or travel coffee mugs cut a kitchen sponge into pieces, soak with dish soap, then toss in a Ziploc bag. You can use the sponges to wash water bottles/tumblers in the hotel sink.
Elim Garak 2 years ago
I don't understand... Why not just bring an empty suitcase? Or are they saying that they wear old and worn clothes during all the vacation?
Cassi Lyris 2 years ago
You don't have to throw out kids' clothes like that. Just fold them up on one of the tables with a little sign on top that says "free" in the local language. Don't be a wasteful stereotype...
Sarah SH 2 years ago (edited)
One time my four year old threw up all over himself right before a four hour flight followed by a long car ride. Those clothes (already not in the best condition) went in the garbage. I figured no one on a flight wants to see/smell a pukey clothes bag (even triple sealed up), plus I didn’t want it in my luggage or to try to wash it after it’s been in there almost all day. Maybe wasteful, but 🤷🏻♀️🤮
#31
Don't drive when you haven't slept for a long time. Going too long without sleep can impair your ability to drive the same way as drinking too much alcohol.
Shagun Srivastava 2 years ago
if i'm not mistaken, i think it has something to do with depth perception?
#32
Read two books about the place before you go. One fiction, one non-fiction. Try to get some context, a limited understanding, and follow your interests. Don’t just go for the beach or for the selfie. Ideally, your interests will eventually guide both your reading and your travel. Travel closer to the off season. Risk a bit of bad weather in exchange for a better experience. Buy a high quality desktop USB charging hub with enough ports and wattage to handle all your devices. They automatically manage the different voltages, and they all have cheap, removable plug cables so you can just bring whichever ones you need for whichever country at whichever length you prefer. Solid soaps, conditioners, and shampoos are just as nice and often nicer than the liquid stuff, can last for months, and are allowed in your carry on. Get both a visa and a Mastercard debit card because sometimes banks prefer one over the other, and also for redundancy in case of loss. Charles Schwab checking accounts have Visa debit cards and they refund all ATM fees with zero exchange rate fees, so it’s my primary. Spend good money on your backpack because it will be durable enough to handle the pressure of efficient packing, and you’ll be able to cram at least twice as much stuff into it as you would a random book bag. Also, having a zipper break mid-trip can be devastating. There’s an app called Airalo that will get you an e-sim internet plan in most countries at reasonable rates. Attach all of your two factor authentication stuff to a Google voice number. It’s free, and it’ll work no matter where you are. For long haul flights in economy bring a lightweight down jacket with a hood for warmth (it’s basically like bringing a sleeping bag), a good eye mask for darkness, disposable earplugs for silence, a neck pillow for comfort, and a mild sleeping pill. The secret to using the ear plugs for maximum effect on an airplane is to seriously squeeze them down into a really thin and long roll like they’re play dough, and then quickly slide them deep into your ears before they have a chance to expand so that they expand to completely fill your ear canal. It also helps make sure that they wont fall out. It’s better to spend more time in a few places than a little time in a bunch of places.
#33
Check out the Citymapper app if you' re going to a new city/country. It was a godsend when I spent a week in Hamburg - give it an address and it'll show you several ways to get to your destination, including mass transit (train, bus) and rental options (bikes, scooters) if possible.
A unit conversion app can be nice to have too, potentially
Tyke 2 years ago
also seeing as this is a map of London transport... always google how far it is to walk. Quite often in central London, walking is quicker than the tube
Robert T 2 years ago
This is particularly pertinant where you would have to change tube lines to get to the exact stop you want. You can walk miles within the tube system to keep changing lines, when in reality a short walk on the surface will get you there quicker.
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#34
Unless you absolutely need to, don’t check baggage. Carry on only. I can travel anywhere for two weeks with just a carry on. My wife can do this also.
T Ted 2 years ago
Depends on the trip and airport. I’d much rather spend 10 mins either side of my journey dropping off and collecting a bag than suffer the hassle and muscle strain of lugging a bag through the airport and up and down stairs for hours after check in or during transit. Particularly when you offset that time with the time saved at security and actually usable time saved when packing. And of course packing what you want not just a miserly compromise. And then there’s being able to go to the toilet at the airport without squeezing a trolley case into a tiny grubby cubicle. Or worse putting a backpack on the bathroom floor, because it’s too big and heavy to hang on the coat hook, knowing the now soggy bottom will soon be back on your back. Plus being able to get what you need at the airport out of your bag easily without a game of terminal floor repacking tetris...
T Ted 2 years ago (edited)
... And being able to carry drinks back to your lounge/cafe table without spilling on your luggage or dealing concussive blows to at least three innocent bystanders. Oh and remote stand buses... nobody watching you squeeze on and arc round your carry on is looking at their personal item and wishing they hadn’t checked their bag. Carry on is a synonym of palaver. And that is travel advice worth remembering. The fact the downsides of doing otherwise fills 2 posts for a quick off top-of-the-head list is testament to both why and the power of airline marketing that has encouraged you to inconvenience yourself to increase their profits.
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memyselfandI 2 years ago
Though check different flights before deciding to do this, some flights are now charging for carryon and making checked luggage free.
RedCorvette 2 years ago
I learned how to do this. Just pack 3 bottoms, several tops and shoes I know are comfy. Minimal toiletries because the hotel usually have all we need.
#35
Auto-travel. Pack your own meals or stop at supermarkets instead of fast-food stops. Will give everyone with you time to walk and stretch while grabbing meals at a supermarket. The deli and produce sections will have a lot of stuff ready to eat.
Michelle Carlson 2 years ago
Plus, shopping at new supermarkets is really fun! You get a great perspective on life in the country.
Cathy Jo Baker 2 years ago
I love going to supermarkets in foreign countries! It's so interesting just to wander the aisles seeing what's there, comparing and contrasting with my home supermarket! Makes for some great pics, too!
Load More Replies... Cathy Jo Baker 2 years ago
When I drive to south Florida from Indiana, I take my dinner with me as most hotels have microwaves in the room, or at the very least, a microwave for guests to use. A couple days before I leave, I cook something tasty, then pack a throw away container with leftovers. It goes in my cooler when I drive, and when I get to my hotel hours later, tired, hungry, and not wanting fast food, I microwave my homemade meal, then dump the container. It was an old take-out container, anyway. This may not work for everyone. It works for me because I frequently am driving alone and don't have to worry about what other people want to eat.
Kate Jones 2 years ago
I can't say enough how helpful it was to bring my own food and drinks. I usually bring 2 pieces of luggage: 1 for clothes and 1 for food. I put small bottles of drinks, snacks, a loaf of bread and some peanut butter and jam, ramen, etc. Then I checked the bag. Worst case scenario is it gets lost. Then when you get to your hotel you don't have to rely just on room service where you're going to pay 28 dollars for a hamburger. Enjoy going out when you want to but this is great for those nights you get back late and have the munchies or just want to save some money and not buy every single meal. Also, you can buy alcohol at the airport fairly cheaply. Buy some bottles and bring them with you so you can make your own drinks. I've been disappointed by island drinks. I always thought i'd get these gorgeous umbrella drinks when travelling to islands because I see it in movies and tv and most of the time the drink isn't even that good and it's crazy expensive.
#36
If you have kids, specially young kids like toddlers or babies. Spoil them. Any toys, snacks, iPads. Whatever they want or need to make life easier. When I traveled with my 4 year old nanny kid she got anything she wanted. For one she was in comfy pajamas. I made her wear a diaper/pull up, super underrated. Either preventing an accident all over her clothes. Or when we almost missed our connecting flight, sprinting through the airport. And she hits me with a “I need to potty” which is a 10 minute ordeal.
Tyke 2 years ago (edited)
Great for girls. I have a boy - we have a "pee pee bottle". Looks like an elephant and bottle crossed, no spill, takes up little room. And he pees down the trunk so his penis is hidden while he's using it. They (very popular website named after a jungle) do a girl's version too but I've no experience of that.
#37
Use flight aware to track your flight. Not only does your flight show up as cancelled/delayed on flight aware BEFORE your airline sends you a notification, but it also lets you track your inbound planes activity a whole 24 hours before your flight so you can gauge ahead of time whether you think your flight will leave on time or not. Saved myself multiple hours in the airport this way by figuring out my flight will be delayed before the airline sends a notification. For example, if the plane you're taking is departing late for the flight a couple before yours, you can pretty much bet on a delay hours before the airline will let you know.
Robert T 2 years ago
I use flightradar24 for this. Once the aircraft for the flight is identified, you can see where it is coming in from and whether it has been delayed. However I would advise against not leaving for the airport for the scheduled time, as they will frequently switch routes on aircraft so that they don't need to have a fresh crew.
#38
Here in the United States of America, just because you're visiting *one* part of a state, doesn't mean that's how it will be everywhere in the state. Eastern Oregon is drastically different than Western Oregon. Southern Ohio might as well be another planet as Central Ohio. Florida is basically ten different states put in one. California is so massive, it's way more than just Hollywood. I can't tell you how many disappointed people I've came across who are shocked to find out traveling in a bumf**k rural part of a state is different than traveling to the major city of a state, or a suburb, or a tourist-style area of that same state. "But but...I thought New York was the city that never sleeps"(as they complain about their trip to Upstate New York).
Rinso the Red 2 years ago
To some extent, but people forget just how big the continental US really is. I remember a friend asking how long it would take to drive to Hollywood... from Boston. He legit thought it was a "day trip"
Load More Replies... Kate Haslam 2 years ago
I can't tell you how many threads I've seen in r/LosAngeles from people asking if it's feasible to fly into LAX, spend the day at Sea World, then check in at a hotel in San Francisco. Like, dude, look at a map.
#39
Not particularly "unknown," but never use the money exchange at an airport. The rates are *abominable.* Just google the closest bank or exchange store near you. It normally has *much* better rates than those at an airport.
David Bowlby 2 years ago
We used western union to send ourselves money and it was so much cheaper than any exchange place, we withdrew in local currency.
Kate Jones 2 years ago
AAA also does really cheap exchange, sometimes better than your bank. I wrote this in a comment above, lol :)
#40
If you like to sleep on an airplane. Figure out what side of the plane the sun will be shining on and sit on the other side. - Not my best travel tip, but something I’ve appreciated after a long week of travel.
#41
Most people will say to to float along with no plan, get lost in a city #wanderlust My best travel tip is to be organized and be efficient with your time while also staying flexible. Hard but very rewarding.
#42
This is specifically about traveling to Las Vegas: If you are not from a desert climate the low humidity is no joke. Carry a full 1l bottle of water and lip balm on your person--refill the bottle whenever you can. If it is summer hiking in the desert is suicide unless you are very well prepared, and most likely you aren't. If you go hiking at Zion National Park pay attention to the weather--if there are showers anywhere near where you are stay out of canyons or dry stream beds. If you are staying on one end of the Strip, the other end of the Strip is nowhere near as close as it looks. Wear good shoes--you will be walking a lot more than you think. If you drink, don't gamble. If you gamble, don't drink. Set a loss limit: Bring envelopes with the amount of cash you are willing to lose each session--when that envelope is empty the session is over. Set a win limit: once you have doubled (or whatever) your stake, the session is over. Put the money in the envelope and seal it. Mail it to yourself if you don't think you have the discipline to dip into it. Bring your Social Security Card or passport--if you win beyond a certain limit and get a hand-pay you will need to show one of these documents or the IRS will require the casino to withhold the income tax.
Kate Jones 2 years ago
Sometimes just walking to the entrance of a casino, it's like half a mile, lol. Do not go to casinos thinking it's like a movie...be comfortable. Almost no one dresses up in any way. No one wants to see your feet walking barefoot because you were stupid and wore 5 inch heels. Flip flops with plastic on them are going to get hot and stick to your feet. And make preparations with your bank BEFORE you go. If you think you want to withdraw 2 thousand at the atm, make sure you don't have limits on your card. I get more calls at my bank from people who are in Vegas and need to get cash and their cards got blocked by fraud.
#43
I have two.
One. There's this weird arm pillow sling thing you can get so you can actually sleep while flying in economy. I'm the ONLY one with it on every flight and everyone around asks me what that is. You can google it.
Two. If you're a frequent flyer like me, but you keep falling short to earn status / medallion because you don't fly enough, you can actually buy them from places like AirlineStatus(com) - On Delta, I didn't reach it for 2 consecutive years. Then, I just bought Platinum Medallion for like 3 hundred bucks. (It's resold corporate travel benefits but it shows up the same exact way in your app). I also rarely hear about this among my friends.
Good luck. Hope this helps for what it's worth.
a fruity dream of delusion 2 years ago
whenever people refer to seating or things like that as territory it makes me laugh so hard for no reason, i just find it funny somehow-
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#44
Keep a small toiletry bag in your carry on luggage. You never know when your checked luggage will disappear.
Debra McGeorge 2 years ago
I went to Switzerland and my bag went to Dubai for Christmas.
Load More Replies... Nicola Roberts 2 years ago
I'm not sure when I heard it but ever since I will carry with me a swimsuit and a change of clothes it takes the urgency out of the situation if you arrive at your beach holiday without your suitcase. Touch wood, it's never been an issue. The other tip was to split your clothes with someone else that's travelling with you. So you would only lose half your clothes. It less convenient so only done it a couple of times.
Cathy Jo Baker 2 years ago
Pack anything you cannot live without in your carryon, especially medications. Pack at least one change of clothes with some clean underwear, also. It's a lot easier to do that than to wear dirty clothes or have to buy an emergency outfit if you arrive at your destination and your luggage doesn't.
#45
Book directly with the hotel. They’ll almost always beat the online rates by a few bucks.
Mrs. Sherri C (Sherbear) 2 years ago (edited)
Not always true! I always use booking.com after 2 stays in 1 year I'm a genius booker for life. I get free room upgrades, and bigger discounts on hotels/motels.
Ace 2 years ago
The hotel pays at least 12.5% to booking.com, sometimes more. Going direct won't get you upgrades, but if they care about profits they should always be willing to give the best price.
Load More Replies... #46
If you have to spend more than a little time at an airport, check if there is a lounge you can stay at. Often your credit cards or frequent traveller programmes will give you free or cheaper entrance.
#47
Go to any hardware store and pick up a 3 port, 6ft extension cord. They are usually like $5 and pretty light. This will turn 1 outlet into 3 and move it in a more convenient position. You can now charge all your devices. This is handy at airports where the outlets or charging stations are never convenient or fill up fast. If stayed at hostels where I'm on the top bunk and the outlet is at knee level, this really helps. Even staying in a hotel sometimes it's nice to just have the outlet on the nightstand instead of hiding behind the bed or dresser.
Different countries have different types of outlets. I wouldnt trust one of these things to run a hairdryer, but for charging your phone, camera, tablet, whatever, it should be fine with a little adapter.
Robert T 2 years ago
If you travel with a laptop, buy a proper cable for the country you are visiting. They are quite cheap for the bit from the wall to the transformer. Having the correct plug means that it won't fall out of the wall as adapters tend not to have a snug fit. I was halfway through giving a training course when the battery alarm on my laptop went off and look to see the plug lying on the floor.
#48
If you have periods, always have period supplies in your bag so you don’t get caught short and bleed in your clothes. If you use them up, buy more to replace them at your destination or after you’re home again so they’re there for next time.
Have extra underwear and (black) pants or shorts available to change into in case of leaks.
If you’re traveling on your period, wear dark clothes if possible in case there’s a leak, it’s less visible and less embarrassing.
Mani Lacao 2 years ago
"If you have periods, always have period supplies in your bag so you don’t get caught short and bleed in your clothes." Lol, no s*it, Sherlock "Bring extra protection and buy some more if you ran out"
PunnyPanda 2 years ago
And keep in mind that tampons are not universally used and can be hard to find in some developing areas of the world. Bring enough (no applicator to save space) to last the whole trip if you're not sure.
Michelle Carlson 2 years ago
Great tip. Its easy to get so excited for a trip that you lose track of when your cycle is. Plus, finding supplies on a trip can sometimes be challenging. I know it has been for me in teh past. Not always easy to get to a pharmacy or grocery.
#49
Bring an extra empty bag (and room in your carry-on) for souvenirs. There’s been so many times when friends have packed their bags completely full for their initial flight, and then just look at me like surprised pikachu when I ask them where they’re gonna put everything they buy.
#50
Get luggage straps for your checked bags. Your bags will be the easiest ones to find on the luggage carousel, your belongings will still be secure in case a zipper breaks on your suitcase, and many straps have little pouches on the inside where you can put a card with your name and phone number in case the airport loses your luggage.
Kate Jones 2 years ago
I'd add that I highly recommend you have hard cover luggage. Keeps things from being damaged and generally better made. Also, ALWAYS get luggage that has 4 wheels. You are going to lose your mind if you get the kind that has 2 wheels that you constantly have to lean or it falls over. Spend the extra money, trust me!
Nicola Roberts 2 years ago
When I remember I put name and flight details out and rtn on a large piece of coloured paper inside the suitcase.
#51
Be prepared for the lingering mental effects of jetlag that are hard to detect. It's not just about being tired or getting hungry at weird times, it also affects being able to think clearly, focus, and make good decisions. These little issues will linger long after you stop feeling tired or have trouble eating. You will feel normal, but you won't be. The best way to deal with this, I find, is (1) to stay very hydrated on the flight and, when you land, make plans ahead of time to accommodate having a different sleep schedule so you don't have to force it too fast; (2) and just arrive as much ahead of time as possible if you have something that will require your mental acuity, like work meetings.
#52
Pack binder clips they can hold draperies closed tightly for a dark room and can be used to turn regular hangers into skirt/pants hangers.
Cathy Jo Baker 2 years ago
Yes! Never leave home without them! I also always travel with a bath towel, and some duck tape. Both of those have come in clutch on more than one occasion, although recently I've been taking a soft blanket that folds up into nothing instead of the towel.
#53
Roll all your clothes. Rubber band them using a color-coding system. Green rubber band means "never worn", yellow rubber band means "worn once, still ok", red rubber band means "Needs to be washed before wearing again.
Debra McGeorge 2 years ago
I just put my dirty clothes in a plastic bag so they're not touching my wearable stuff.
T Ted 2 years ago
Yup, grab a laundry bag out of a hotel room and keep using it to section off the laundry in your case until you lose/forget/tear it then grab another one.
Load More Replies... #54
Roll with it. Simply put, be flexible, be open to the unexpected, and be prepared to go out of your comfort zone. That's why you're traveling! If you want a planned, scheduled, formatted and sanitized experience, go to Disney World. If you aren't ready to learn how other people function in the real world, taste new flavors, navigate a foreign language, then you aren't ready to travel. Just roll with it.
#55
If you travel international from the USA get Global Entry. It makes coming back much easier and you get TSA Pre Check as well.
Rocco MZ 2 years ago
Travel with people in your income bracket. Six of us rented a house in Fort Lauderdale. Two people in the group didn't make much money. We go there all the time so we have our favorite restaurants, bars, beaches, and such. Before we left we set down some ground rules like no complaining, arguing, etc. We also made a deal where one of us would do all the shopping for food and booze and we'd split the bill evenly at the end. We ALL agreed on this. One member of the group was a chef and he loves to cook, so he cooked every meal we ate at the house. We ate like kings and queens. The two who don't make much money agreed to all of this. They spent the entire time complaining that they couldn't afford to go out to eat and drink. Our chef friend pulled them aside and told them to cut it out as they knew these plans were already in place. We would go out, they would stay behind, and when we'd get home they'd sulk and not talk to us. When it came time to pay the final bill, it was ONLY $75 each.
Rocco MZ 2 years ago
Based on the meals prepared, I assumed we'd each be paying $200. I was blown away by how little it cost to feed all of us for five days. These two refused to pay it because they were "forced" to eat at the house and they only drank beer and we drank hard alcohol. Not true as they went through one bottle of booze doing shots over the course of a few days. They were complete a-holes the entire trip home, too. Our chef friend told us not to worry about them not paying. He had his lawyer brother call each of them to tell them he has emails and texts from them agreeing to split the cost and if they didn't pay him, he would take them to small claims court. They paid him. Yeah, we aren't friends with them anymore.
Load More Replies... #56
If you are travelling in a airplane use the toilet before drinks/foods are served and save yourself from long queues and dirty toilet.
#57
Don't pay 5 pounds to have a bottle of water delivered to your stateroom on a cruise ship, just call room service and order a free bucket of ice, it'll melt. (I worked as a Room Service Attendant at Costa Crociere and Waiter Assistant at MSC)
What do you think ?
Cathy Jo Baker 2 years ago
I agree! Always be on your best behavior. Don't be the stereotypical (insert nationality of your choice here).
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DeoManus Argentem 2 years ago
Always try using a VPN before booking anything! Make it look like you're booking from a far less affluent country, and on many sites you'll get the lower rate, which can sometimes be HUGE! For example, going to Disney? Set your VPN to some place in south America or eastern Europe before booking your hotel/rental car/flight in/to Orlando. Half my family lives in Las Vegas, and the other half in Pennsylvania, for example, and even though they've never even been to Czechia, (and I'm physically in Florida) I set my VPN to Prague before booking their flights, cars, etc. It may take some fiddling to find the optimal site/location, but you can save thousands!
TheReader19 2 years ago
Haven't been abroad in 10 years, determined to go this year. But for some reason I'm not feeling very confident
Cathy Jo Baker 2 years ago
I agree! Always be on your best behavior. Don't be the stereotypical (insert nationality of your choice here).
Load More Replies... DeoManus Argentem 2 years ago
Always try using a VPN before booking anything! Make it look like you're booking from a far less affluent country, and on many sites you'll get the lower rate, which can sometimes be HUGE! For example, going to Disney? Set your VPN to some place in south America or eastern Europe before booking your hotel/rental car/flight in/to Orlando. Half my family lives in Las Vegas, and the other half in Pennsylvania, for example, and even though they've never even been to Czechia, (and I'm physically in Florida) I set my VPN to Prague before booking their flights, cars, etc. It may take some fiddling to find the optimal site/location, but you can save thousands!
TheReader19 2 years ago
Haven't been abroad in 10 years, determined to go this year. But for some reason I'm not feeling very confident
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