Travel Tips

Slow Down

Give yourself more time in each place you go. You might find that you come home with more valuable experiences and memories to cherish.

Spend the mornings sightseeing and leave the afternoons free to relax or to be spontaneous, or leave the day open and plan an evening tour. Trying to pack in all there is to do and see could leave you stressed out and exhausted. Instead create a list for "When I Come Back Again" or “Must See vs Optional”.

Take an afternoon to sit somewhere and observe daily life around you: the smells, the colors, the sounds, human interactions.

Pay attention to the details. Really experience your destination. These memories will come home with you.

​

Be present. Enjoy the moment.

Relax

You're on vacation! 

It can sometimes be difficult, but do your very best to relax.

Enjoy the journey, the experience, the company you’re with.

Remember that being patient will provide more enjoyment for everyone involved.

Things will go wrong. Take a deep breath (maybe two or three). 

You’re on an adventure! Don’t worry about the things you can’t control. Focus on what you can do to make it better, fun, and memorable. 

And you’re probably going to look foolish at some point when traveling to a new place. Do your best to laugh at yourself, laugh at the situation. Give or take a hug. No worries, mon! Laugh it off and enjoy your life.

Enjoy this moment. 

Airport Ease

Giving yourself plenty of time at the airport will greatly reduce stress levels. For international flights, we recommend arriving at least three hours prior to departure. For domestic flights, we recommend that you arrive at least two hours prior. Grabbing a snack with a cuppa before your flight is a nice way to pass the time.

Pack your liquids in a clear plastic bag and put it at the top of your carryon bag. You’ll be able to quickly pull it out to get through security.

Check TSA Know Before You Go Travel Requirements here.

​​

You can check in to your flights up to 24 hours before your flight departure by going to the airline website or app and entering your name and confirmation number. Any checked baggage can be added and paid for here as well. Setting an alarm on your phone can help you remember. Your ticket can be accessed on your mobile phone or at the kiosk in the airport. You’ll need to take any checked bags to the airline baggage cart or ticket counter upon arrival. Verify the airline’s baggage size and weight requirements ahead of time to avoid any extra fees. 

​​

Bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it up after you pass through airport security. Staying hydrated will help reduce jetlag. It is important to adjust to your new time zone as soon as possible. Go to sleep if it’s nighttime; stay awake if it’s daytime. Eat frequent small meals, take short (15-20 minute) naps throughout the day, and do strategic exercise earlier in the day, preferably outside, to help your body adjust. Set your watch or phone to your destination time while you're traveling. You can also try adjusting your sleep schedule to your destination time zone a few days prior to travel. Start with one or two hours adjustment at a time. It can take about two days for your body to adjust to a new time zone.

Enrolling in TSA PreCheck ahead of time can help to avoid long security lines and having to remove shoes, laptops, 311 liquids, belts or jackets. Often your wait can be less than 10 minutes to get through security.

Airport lounges allow you a quiet place to relax, get some food and drinks, access wifi, even take a shower or a nap, before catching your next flight. Travel credit cards may include membership as a perk, and specific airlines may offer airline lounge access with the purchase of your ticket, or you can purchase reservation access. With a Priority Pass membership, you can have access to elite airport lounges worldwide. 

Debt Free

Pay for your vacation with money you have. Going into debt for a trip can often bring heaviness and even regret. Instead start saving while you’re dreaming, make a deposit to reserve, and make payments as you can. This way you can be free to enjoy your adventure, do the things you want to do, and feel good when you return home. You can start planning for your next trip rather than worry about paying off the one you just took. It might take a few sacrifices to get where you want to go. Thank yourself for such an amazing experience. You did good!

Travel Credit Card

Look for a travel credit card that meets your lifestyle. Some offer zero international transaction fees, a reward program that offers points or miles for free or discounted travel, and travel insurance included. Then use it as a debit card for your monthly expenses to accumulate those points quickly and earn free travel.

Some cards also offer memberships or discounts on memberships for travel, such as the Priority Pass, which will give you access to elite airport lounges worldwide.

Money

Tell your bank or credit card company of your travel plans ahead of time. This will help ensure your card won’t be flagged or frozen while you’re trying to use it in a foreign country. Check for any international fees.

Take a backup card with you, as well as extra cash, in case of emergencies. If your original card is lost, stolen, or frozen, you won’t find yourself without access to your funds.

Your local bank or credit union is the best place to exchange money currency. The next best would be your destination airport. Of course you can use a local ATM to withdraw cash, however the exchange rates and fees will be higher. Use a credit or debit card with no foreign transaction fees if your destination is card friendly, and complete your purchase in local currency to avoid extra charges.

Packing

Packing Light can avoid extra baggage fees, lost luggage and help save time at the airport.

• Use packing cubes for their ability to fit more clothes and other items in your suitcase.

• Use compression bags, which allow you to compress the air out of them without a vacuum, further increasing space in your suitcase.

• Roll your clothing rather than folding it (called Ranger Rolling). An effective space saver, simply fold your article of clothing tightly into the shape of a burrito. Roll your shirts and socks together to avoid sock balls.

• Plan ahead. Organize outfits according to weather or itinerary. Color coordinate to pack less. Accessorize to dress up the basics. Be strategic with your choices, limiting to one item of each kind of clothing. Choose items that have multiple uses.

• Do laundry at your destination. Ask the hotel about laundry services or coin operated laundry available. Bring soap sheets which easily dissolve in water and comply with TSA's liquid rules. Wash clothes in the sink or shower and hang to dry overnight. Pack quick-dry clothing to ensure dry clothes by morning. A Tide pen will handle spills and stains until you return home.

• Bring travel-size makeup and toiletries. Use the hotel hairdryer.

• Make a list of essentials. Then cut it in half and pack only that. If you’re not sure about an item, you don’t need it.

• Using a smaller suitcase will force you to pack less rather than filling the space. Always double check with your airline for carry-on luggage size and weight requirements.

• Wear your bulky items on the plane. Layer as much as possible.

• Acknowledge that over packing with kids may be unavoidable. Do your best to focus on essentials. Remember that you can purchase something in destination if you find you really need it.

​

What to pack in a carryon bag:

• Change of clothes

• Carry-on size toiletries and personal items like medications 

• Noise canceling earphones 

• Ear plugs 

• Eye mask 

• Lip balm and moisturizer 

• Something warm for the cold plane ride 

• Travel pillow 

• Empty water bottle and snacks

• Travel documents

• Swimsuit and sunscreen

​

Helpful items often overlooked:

• Earplugs

• Eye Mask

• Travel pillow

• Sunscreen

• Personal filtered water bottle

• Basic first aid kit

• Quick-drying towel

• Good comfortable shoes

• Versatile jacket or sarong

• Travel Journal

Before you leave, take a picture of your luggage and contents. If your luggage gets lost, this will help to identify it, and speed up the reimbursement process with your insurance.

Off-Season Travel

Travel during the off-season can provide discounted rates, so you can either travel farther or go on a smaller budget. Frequent flier miles might stretch further during off-peak times, and there might be more availability for complimentary room upgrades.

Verify that the attractions you want to visit will be open. Some close seasonally or have restricted hours. Transportation may be more limited as well; perhaps a great opportunity to rent a car and do some extended exploring.

Prepare for the weather forecast and pack accordingly. Plan activities that are not as dependent on weather.

Check out festivals and special events that are planned specifically for the off-season.

There will be significantly less people with whom to share the space. Locals may also be more inclined to visit or chat with you, providing a more real-life experience of what it is to be where you are.

​No matter what the season, visiting attractions early in the morning, during meal times, or later in the day, will allow you to explore and enjoy with less crowds. 

Shopping

When shopping in a foreign country, doing your best to blend in may keep prices more reasonable. Looking and acting like a tourist might have you paying more. Learn some words and common phrases so you can communicate easier, as well as how to haggle. The closer you are to tourist attractions while shopping or eating, the more likely it may be overpriced.

When you go out, limit the cash you carry and take only one bank card. Pay attention to your surroundings and use common sense. Use your hotel room safe to keep valuables secure. When traveling with luggage, spread your cash out throughout your luggage rather than having it only in one spot.

Never agree to or do anything that involves money without knowing exactly how much it will cost you. Always negotiate and agree on a price beforehand, and make sure you figure out all of the details first (one-way or both ways, per person or total, etc).

Look for things you can't get anywhere else and you won’t ever regret buying it, no matter the price tag. Sometimes you find the perfect keepsake, knowing the memories it will carry home. And it’s always fun to tell the story to your house guests when they ask about it. Your trips will change you and become a part of you. It’s fun to let your home reflect it.

When packing for your trip, keep in mind suitcase space for souvenirs. Some options might be shipping it home from the local post office, or from the store you purchase from. You could bring an extra bag with you dedicated for souvenirs. On your flight home, keep it safe as your personal or carry-on bag and check your clothes bag.

Verify with your home country customs any rules regarding food and plant items.

Dining

The closer you are to tourist attractions while eating or shopping, the more likely it may be overpriced. Look for menus in the local language rather than ones that list menu items in multiple languages for tourists. Try food you’ve never had. If you’re nervous about eating street food, look to see where kids are eating or where locals are lined up. Expensive restaurants may offer lunch specials with the same dinner menu for a fraction of the cost. Foreign supermarkets can be a fun experience, and if your accommodation provides a kitchen, cooking your own meals like a local can help trim your budget.

Plan for meals before you get hungry, and bring snacks with you when you’re out sightseeing, being respectful of the rules of the attraction. Stay hydrated by bringing your own water bottle. Many countries have safe tap water, but a filtered water bottle or Steripen can help. You can also purchase a large bottle of water and refill your own at your hotel before you go out. Some destinations have reverse osmosis machines on each block, or bars and hotels will have dispensers and can refill your bottle for a small fee. Traveling can be rough on your body. Take care of yourself with water, good food, sleep, exercise, and sunscreen. 

Tipping

Tipping in most countries is expected in the hospitality industry.

10-15% cash is always appreciated, in whichever currency. Gratuities are included in All-Inclusive Plans. However additional gratuities at guests' discretion are usually accepted. There are specific resorts that discourage additional gratuity; make sure you know which one you are staying at. Take small bills with you for tipping. If you leave something for housekeeping, make sure to leave a note so they know it's for them.  

Here is a simple guide with suggested amounts. Give what you think is fair; it will be appreciated. A smile and a thank you go a long way too. Remember people are working hard for your enjoyment, and to feed their own families. Be respectful; be grateful; and don’t be shy to express your satisfaction.

Respect Local Culture

Read a history book about your destination before you go. Know the accepted public behavior and dress. Learn some words and common phrases. Ask locals for some key phrases. Making an effort will make a positive impression. Not being able to communicate can be frustrating, but be patient. Try using the Google Translate app, hand signals, or images on your phone. (Remember that speaking louder does not help), but a smile can ease an uncomfortable moment, break the tension, and create a common ground. 

Keep an open mind. Ask questions. Embrace differences in lifestyles, customs, and opinions. Maybe you’ll learn something that changes you.

Experience Your Destination

Consider purchasing a City Pass or going on a Walking Tour for an economical way to see and learn about your destination, visit attractions, and get acquainted with the local scene. Some are even free, though you can leave a $10 tip for the guide to express your enjoyment. 

Buying tickets to attractions ahead of time will often get you discounted pricing and skip the line advantage, allowing you to experience more. 

Using responsible tour companies who care about the animals, environment, and local economy will help keep your amazing destination amazing. Perhaps you could even volunteer for a work project to get involved, interact with locals, and have life-changing experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

Travel Companions

“A COUPLE WHO TRAVELS TOGETHER, GROWS TOGETHER.” – AHMAD FUADI

It's amazing to share your travel adventures with a companion, however it can also get a bit stressful at times. Remember that you chose to travel with them because you love them and enjoy their company. Try your best to not take them for granted. Let your companion know how much they mean to you and how much you appreciate their support.

Fighting when you travel does not mean the end of a relationship. When on a vacation you're out of your familiar environment and comfortable schedule. You're spending 24 hours a day together, and you might encounter some very challenging experiences that will push you to your personal limit. You might witness your travel companion reach their limit. Sometimes a person needs to vent, but don't let it ruin what you have. Let it bring you closer.

Remember to compromise. You're in this together. Give a little - try things the other person likes, and then try something you like. Respect and celebrate each other's opinions and boundaries.  Everyone does not need to be like you. Our differences can be what make us better together.

Staying Connected

Remember to pack the appropriate chargers for your devices. At any downtime, always be charging to keep your device batteries full and ready to use when you need them. In certain countries, electric adapters are necessary to convert power. Your resort or hotel will often provide an adapter for you, or you can bring your own. A portable solar battery pack may be another good option.

Consider getting a VPN to protect your online privacy. This creates a secure wifi connection, no matter what wifi network you’re connecting to. This is especially important if you do anything online involving money. Some countries block access to various social sites, which you can get around with a VPN.

Long Layover

Long layovers can be a great way to see a city along your journey. Actually planning for a long layover can give you plenty of time to do some sightseeing before returning to the airport and catching your next flight (and might save you some cash purchasing your plane ticket). You can decide if it's worth coming back for a longer stay at another time. 

Most airports have lockers or luggage storage so you don't have to bring your carryon bag with you; as well as taxis and public transit to make it easy to get around. You can always arrange for private transportation to ensure you have someone waiting for you. 

Seeing some sights during a longer layover might be better than spending the hours waiting for your next flight inside the airport. You have the benefit of moving your body and getting some sun rays, fresh air and good food before completing your travels.

Make It a Rule

Be spontaneous.

Say yes.

Try something new.

Go somewhere you didn’t know existed.

Live life to the fullest, even if only for today.