Most people daydream about traveling the world. But the realities of travel require proper planning and preparation to enjoy your trip. Read on for tips that will help you maximize your vacation experience.
Keep written notes of key information if you are traveling abroad. Among this information should be contact information for the embassy or consulate for the country you are visiting. Should you face trouble or difficulties abroad, this is your first point of contact. They can help you with problems that occur.
Once you've chosen your destination, take the time to get to know more about where you're going. Find a good map of your destination, and take some time to learn about the geography and the main attractions. The more you know about the environment, the easier it will be to get around when you are there.
Plan your trip months ahead of time. Most often, you can find travel deals by booking early, but last minute deals may appeal to those with less stringent needs. By minimizing your last minute spending, you can stretch your travel budget further.
When you check into a hotel, see if the alarm is set. The worst thing that could happen is to be startled by an alarm clock when you're fast asleep that a previous guest had set to early. If you want to ensure a relaxing start to your vacation, make sure the alarm is off, or at least, set to when you would like to awaken.
Clothespins can be very helpful when travelling. They are often forgotten, but they actually can prove to be very useful.
Always remember to tip housekeepers and bellboys. Tipping the bellhop around $1 per bag and the housekeeping staff around $2 to $5 per day is certainly not excessive. Tipping will show your appreciation for their work, and will help you maintain a good relationship with hotel staff.
Put your personal ID info inside your bags. It is easy for a baggage tag to come off the exterior of your suitcases while they are en route. Place your contact information and itinerary in your luggage in case it gets lost.
If you are taking a long trip and you're packing light, pack a rain coat that has a soft lining. You never can predict what the weather will do. Your raincoat can be used when it is chilly. You can even use it as a bathrobe when in the hotel.
Not everyone finds it affordable to stay at fancy hotels, and you may even find yourself in a one-star or less hotel. Take a plain doorstop with you for these situations. You can place it underneath your door at night to add security beyond the main chain and lock. An intruder might be able to get past the chain and the lock, but the rubber doorstop won't be so easy to dislodge.
You are not going to be as confused when planning your trips now. You will find that other people will begin to ask you travel questions when they notice just how resourceful you are. When you apply these tips, your traveling will be more relaxed and stress-free.