Travel tips to keep your trip on track

So you’re heading overseas. Whether it’s Bali, Bangkok or Barcelona there’s anticipation, excitement and maybe a little apprehension. Here are some tips to help make your trip a safe and happy one.

Travel can be a lot of fun. But things can and do go wrong too. Flights get delayed. Luggage goes missing. Stomachs get upset. While you can’t always avoid things going wrong, you can be prepared. And that can help minimise the hassle and maximise the enjoyment.

Book or not?

While it's possible to book an entire trip yourself over the internet, it can be good to tap into the knowledge of a travel agent. They may have ‘on the ground’ experience and can help you plan your itinerary and point out pitfalls to avoid. But you don’t have to use them for everything. Maybe book your flights and accommodation for the first night in each new location. But leave some room for flexibility, so you can take opportunities as they present themselves.

Get travel insurance

This may be the most important thing to do before you travel. You need travel insurance, even if you're just planning to lie around in a resort for a week. If you're in an accident or you get sick, the medical costs can be significant, especially in the USA. Even if it’s just your bags that go missing, you'll be thankful you took out that insurance policy.

Scan your passport and travel documents

Give a copy of important travel documents to family or friends and take a copy with you. If you lose your passport or documents, this backup will save you a lot of heartache. Plus it’s a good idea to keep all your tickets and itineraries organised in a folder, so you don’t have to go digging through pockets in your bag at the airport check-in.

Pack like a pro

Dragging heavy suitcases around airports and onto public transport quickly becomes tiresome. The less you have to carry, the happier you will be travelling. Check what the weather will be like where you’re going, then pack only what you’ll need.

If you roll your clothes when packing, you’ll fit more in your case and they’ll come out with fewer creases. Rather than carry heavy books, charge your tablet or devices before you go and load them with things to read, play or watch. And keep a change of clothes and basic toiletries in your carry-on bag in case your luggage gets lost in transit.

Check the drinking water is safe

Drinking bottled water is always your safest bet. But remember that brushing your teeth, ice in cocktails and drinking water in the shower can be real health hazards. Take a small first aid kit with some essentials including some imodium and panadol, as the food in other countries can cause the odd upset tummy.

Respect the locals

Remember to always be respectful of local customs, especially around temples, churches and mosques. Pay attention to how local women dress in order to dress according to local culture. It’s always appreciated by the locals if you can say "hello", "yes please" and "thank you" in their language. If you’re visiting crowded markets in Asia or North Africa, it can also be helpful to learn how to politely but firmly say, "no thank you, please leave me alone" in the local lingo.

Sources:

Ben Groundwater, 11 mistakes every first-time traveller makes
Alison Godfrey, 52 travel tips you really should know
Smart Traveller – Guide for all travellers