Travel tips sans travel blog
Anyone who is interested in travel knows everyone and their mom has a travel blog. Trust me, I have felt the overwhelming sensation of way too much travel information, but I’m here to make your life easier. These notes are for all my wanderlusters who maybe have yet to buy their first plane ticket. Maybe you’re planning your first solo trip? I’ll let you in on what to expect and how to make friends across oceans. This is the stuff you’re gonna wanna know.
Double knot your shoelaces. Trust me on this one. You don’t want to be tripping face first on the platform running to your train or trying to catch the last bus. The whole point of traveling is being on the move; which involves being ready for any situation. I suggest keeping your shoes on- and make sure they’re comfortable.
Check carry on rules for ALL flights. Airlines like to keep you on your toes and each one has their own rules for carry on items allowed on flight. Small domestic airlines such as Spirit, easyJet, Volaris, etc. have stricter rules about carry ons since the planes are generally smaller than big names like United. Chances are if you’re traveling extensively within a country you will be using these domestic airlines as they offer cheap prices.
If you’re using a credit or debit card PAY IN THE CURRENCY OF THE COUNTRY YOU’RE IN. It will eliminate any transfer charges. You can also avoid this by getting a travel credit card that doesn’t charge exchange rates. I use Capital One, but most card companies have a special card specifically suited for travelers. They’re useful for booking rooms or tickets online so if you have time, research a travel card that works best for you. ALSO...
Always carry cash for the country you’re visiting. The U.S. is pretty much the only country where credit card is king. Even in Europe, paper is still more popular than plastic. Don’t carry more than the amount you will need for a couple days. ATM’s are not hard to find in most cities of the world.
Pack dark colored clothing. I have two reasons for this: you won’t stand out as much and stains/dirt will not be as visible when you’re on your seventh day of skipping laundry. I’m talking to my long term backpackers here.
Pack clothes for layering. Do I sound like your mom yet?
Socks! No one iterates the importance of bringing enough socks. And by enough I mean a new pair for each day before you plan on doing laundry. So probably seven. Seven pairs of socks. Your roomies will thank you.
Ask multiple people about directions. Initially the most terrifying thing about traveling by yourself to a new country is you don’t know what to expect. You’ve literally been placed into a world you’re not used to; whether it be the language, the customs, or even the way street signs are displayed. You will need directions so don’t be afraid to ask someone who looks trustworthy. And then, ask someone else. You might need to ask three or four different people how to get somewhere because people can be incredibly vague; especially anyone working in the travel industry (i.e. airports, bus stops, etc.). These people are answering the same questions over and over again. Approach them warmly with a smile and hope they speak english; which you quickly learn while traveling, most people do.
Trust the people. Love the people. Don’t expect customer service. This sort of ties in with my last tip. Service industries in other parts of the world do not hold the standards that America has. Across the pond there is no rule that you have to pretend to like the person you’re serving coffee to. Don’t take it personally. You could notice a difference and it may be jarring at first.
Don’t listen to ‘em. If you’ve ever even mentioned that you’re interested in traveling to a different country, specifically by yourself, most likely it will be met with comments such as “Are you trying to get raped?” or “Have you ever seen Taken?” These people must be forgiven for their ignorance.
You look like a tourist, you are a tourist, you pay the tourist tax. No one wants to be ripped off, but don’t be obsessed with saving money at every turn. If the taxi ride seems only a little bit on the higher side, just pay it. Don’t be an entitled tourist or expect to pay the same as locals in some places.
Being organized is major key. Google “packing blocks” and then buy them. Everything you bring needs to have a place and it needs to be kept in that place to avoid stress, panic, and will save you time in the long run. This isn’t your bedroom. Don’t throw things willy nilly around the hostel and expect to find them after you’ve overslept and need to catch a train in an hour. This goes for important documents, clothes, and of course, your money. Don’t use a passport holder as a wallet. It is not a wallet and dealing with foreign currency while blindly fishing for money is never going to help you.
“Cards. Bring cards.” This pro tip was contributed by a friend and long term traveler. Cards make for good drinking games which helps breaks the ice and make friends while jumping from hostel to hostel. Oddly enough, said friend and I did not meet during a drinking game. We met on a walking tour in London, which leads to my next tip:
Go on free walking tours! Well, free plus tip. Free walking tours are literally my favorite first step to exploring a new city. Keep in mind they’re free, so sometimes they can be shitty, but a lot of times you get a great guide and a discount at a local restaurant which is the perfect way to meet new people. If you decide the tour isn’t for you, don’t be a dick and disappear. Let the tour guide know you’re going to be leaving the group, thank them, and give a small tip. You can say you’re tired or you have to meet someone… whatever you want to say, but don’t dip without a tip. These tours are how most guides make a living.
Stay in hostels with a rating of 8.5+ Unless you don’t mind questionable plumbing or making your own bed. I’m not at all high maintenance, but I do enjoy basic comfort after a long day of exploring.
Travel size hand sanitizer. ‘Nuff said.
Have an idea of a couple things you want to do in each city you visit. No need to plan step by step, but having a couple ideas in mind will help you get out and explore without feeling overwhelmed.
Taxis are the most expensive form of transportation anywhere you go. Locals almost never use taxis for that reason and effective public transportation really is a thing outside of the U.S. Figure out how the locals travel, whether it be the subway system, collectivos, busses, or bikes. Uber can also be found in most developed cities, especially tourist destinations.
There is no doubt that while you are traveling by yourself or long term you will be put in upsetting or frustrating situations. This is similar to your regular life at home except now you are in a place that is not so familiar. Travel is one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself, so don’t let the inevitable get you down. When something goes wrong just know that you’ve probably learned a valuable travel lesson so there’s nothing to be ashamed or afraid about.
Stop reading tips! Seriously. If you are trying to read up on every travel tip on every blog to make sure you’re extra prepared for any possible scenario, stop wasting your time now. The purpose of traveling is to learn things on the way and you’ll be surprised at how much you learn about yourself in the process. Human instinct is a powerful thing, my friend. Trust yourself.
