There are certain things you can do to make sure you’re well equipped and prepared for whatever may come your way. The following tips should turn rookies into seasoned travelers.
Let’s get one thing out of the dark – we all love traveling and visiting the most beautiful and exotic places our wonderful planet has on offer. However, not all of us know how to prepare ourselves for traveling adventures properly.
Unpredictable situations tend to happen even to the most seasoned travelers and experts, which is something to worry about. Lost passports, inclement weather, and flight delays are just the tip of the iceberg.
The trick is to do everything you can to prevent those mishaps and avoid any situation that you can impact in any way. Be prepared for the unexpected and know how to manage when things go down south.
With all that in mind, there are certain things you can do to make sure you’re well equipped and prepared for whatever may come your way. The following tips should turn rookies into seasoned travelers.
A valid passport is the least of your worries
Having a valid passport isn’t the only thing you need to conquer the globe, not even close. While you need to have one, getting to where you need to go requires a bit more than having a proper document with you.
Having a valid passport is the first step in your path to becoming a seasoned traveler; it’s what comes next that matters. Some countries like China and Russia require travelers that their passports must be valid for at least six months past the date of their return flight, while other countries require passports to be valid three months past the departure.
Then, there’s a visa issue. Some destinations require a visa, which puts you through a certain deal of paperwork and regulations. To make sure your trip is enjoyable, you should do your research before heading out to the airport.
Check your data/cell fees
We indeed live in the mobile world of the internet, and you need to keep an eye on your cell and data usage in distant parts of the world. The world is much more connected than it was ten years ago, which is why you should get informed on the cost of using your phone abroad. And let’s face it – you’ll need to use your phone while traveling, a lot.
Going into airplane mode is easy; it’s the coverage and operability of your phone abroad that should be your prime concerns. Therefore, make sure you check with your operator that your phone has coverage in your destination and is fully operable to avoid awkward situations and high phone bills. It’s essential to determine the amount of data you’ll need based on past usage and bills. You can also buy a SIM card at your destination to avoid expensive roaming fees.
Exchange currency at official exchange offices only
Whatever you do, avoid exchanging your currency at the unofficial exchange offices. It is a mistake that many traveling rookies make. It might seem like a good idea to solve this issue at an airport. However, they are infamous for their exchange rates, and doing business with them is nothing short of a rip-off.
The best way to go would be to arrive at your destination with the local currency already prepared. You can check with your credit union or bank if they support the local currency before you go. Local ATMs also tend to offer a fair deal. If you have a credit card with no foreign transaction fees, that would be the best solution.
Do some research on local customs and cultural norms
Each foreign country has local customs and cultural norms that you should know about. You don’t need more than to be aware of how to behave yourself once you are there.
You’d be surprised what a couple of polite phrases in the local language can do for your stay, especially if you’re visiting countries with strong customs. Show your respect and appreciation, and the locals will make you feel even more welcome for it.
Remember to protect your digital privacy and data
Wherever you go, the chances are that you’ll need to use the internet to find your way around. Most people use public Wi-Fi to connect to the internet, but this is a mistake that can cost you dearly. Public Wi-Fi exposes you to a range of risks you don’t need at all.
Therefore, the best way to go online safely when navigating a foreign country is to use a VPN for travel. It will protect you from dangers that might arise when you connect to free Wi-Fi hotspots at your hotel or any other facility. However, note that a VPN can be useful prior to your trip. By changing your IP address, you get to manipulate your location. Thus, you can find better deals and pay less than you would from your actual location.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve armed yourself with some basic knowledge, it’s time to go out there and conquer the globe like a true explorer. Traveling is a beautiful thing, and you can make it ever so enjoyable if you pay some attention to the little things. Of course, traveling might be unavailable at this moment. Thus, take your time to prepare for your next big adventure.
