13 Ways to Guarantee Smooth Travel in 2018
Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, you want to make sure you do certain things to ensure your trip is smooth and easy. Australians might decide to compare travel insurance, while Europeans will want to keep their passports updated. Here are 12 ways to guarantee smooth travel no matter what country you’re traveling from or to.
1 Make a list
Before you start out, be sure to make a list of all the things you think you’ll need. You will probably end up making a few lists because you’ll also want a list of places to visit while you’re there and ideas for those unexpected layovers or pit stops.
2. Find out about your destination
Research your destination and have a few backup plans in case things go awry, but try not to plan too much. You might even consider joining an online group of those who have visited the same area. Especially if you’re there for business, you will want to know the best places to bring clients, so you don’t end up offending someone or embarrassing yourself.
3. Be Courteous
Kindness and courtesy go a long way to making connections with local people. Remember, if this is your first time or your tenth time, you are the visitor in these parts, so be grateful and courteous to those who live in that place full time. Recognizing that they are making an effort to help you will make it easier for you to get places, learn things, and find out information you wouldn’t normally find out.
4. Have patience with yourself and others
If you will be visiting a place that isn’t familiar to you or your customs, make sure to have patience. Be patient when asking for directions and the person you are speaking to doesn’t speak the same language. Enjoy the process of exploring someplace new.
5. Use a journal
Writing down your adventures is a great way to guarantee smooth travel. Many things happen the same in different places, if you write down your experiences, it will help when you decide to travel to this place once more, or not. You’ll have your notes to compare when you make lists and decide where to go and what to do.
6. Update immunizations and important documents
Always keep your immunizations up to date when traveling abroad, and don’t forget to update any important documents before you leave. You’ll have peace of mind while you’re traveling that, if the unthinkable were to happen, you’ve got the documentation you need to get home or get taken care of.
7. Take care of your body
You’ll also want to take care of your body before you travel and while you’re traveling. Traveling is very stressful on the body and can deplete your energy reserves. If you are traveling to a vastly different time zone, you’ll want to acclimate to that place and give your body the rest and nutrition it needs to keep you running smoothly and happily.
8. Keep in touch with family and friends
Always let someone know where you’re going and your itinerary. Then, while you’re traveling, you’ll want to touch base with them on a regular basis. This is important when you are traveling to different countries that speak a different language and have different cultures than yours. Be sure to keep in touch.
10. Pack with Intelligence AND frugality
Packing is always difficult for trips and packing light isn’t always the best solution. While packing everything into a backpack you carry on is great, you’ll want to use an intelligent and frugal approach to packing. If you do end up using two or more bags then you’ll want to make sure you pack one change of clothes in your carry on bag in case your luggage gets lost or arrives late.
11. Get travel insurance and international data packages for smart devices
Travel insurance could save your life. That’s just a fact and not having travel insurance is courting disaster. You also will want to contact your cell phone carrier and make sure your coverage for data and calling are international. Many companies charge you extra for the service, but it’s cheaper than out of network charges.
12. Learn the language, at least some of it
Take some time before hand to learn some key phrases in the native language of the country you’ll be visiting. It will go a long way toward impressing the native speakers.
13. Most Importantly, bring ear plugs and a sleep mask
These two small pieces of equipment are cheap and will save you a ton of energy and sleep time. Because you’re in a different place, the noises may keep you awake. A good set of ear plugs will save your sanity.
Conclusion
These ways are just a few that will help you keep your traveling smooth and enjoyable. How do you help your travel plans run smooth? Share in the comments below.
