When it comes to travel, you need to make wise choices. Yes, we all have bad experiences at some point, but we learn from them. Unfortunate things happen to most of us. You should prevent problems to arise. As someone who travels often, I have experienced many things in the past during my vacations and I have learned from them. I want to get to the point and list these important steps towards having a wonderful headache-free vacation.
Choose the date and the location wisely.
Think carefully to decide the dates of your vacation and how long you want to stay. Go somewhere you will enjoy and have more fun. We wouldn’t want to say, “I wish” after our mistake.
Don’t book your ticket too early unless it is a busy season.
The chances of changing your ticket are higher if a flight ticket has been booked in advance.
Do not book your flight ticket from a flight agent. Very important point!!!
Pay attention to who you are booking your ticket from. Research the company. A flight agent can be a pain in the ass and sometimes a nightmare. I’m sure some of you have had a very bad experience with some unprofessional companies in the past. Book your ticket directly with the airline itself. Go to their office or book it from their own website.
Yes, you might have to pay 10 or 20 bucks extra, but in the long run, it might prevent extra stress and save you time and a headache. Plus they charge a lot more if you end up changing your return date. Watch out for the cancellation and changing policies firsthand.
Only travel with the clothes you need!!
Don’t go packing all your clothes and accessories unless you are moving away to a different country. Even then, wherever you are going will most likely have the same stuff to buy. Just get stuff that you will really need.
I bet some of you are saying that “I made that mistake before.” If you didn’t, your parents or grandparents did or are still doing it, right? Make a packing list and leave the things you don’t need to take.
Make a Plan and Research the Location
Research the city you are going to. The attractions, restaurants, hotels, and other places you want to stay or visit. Don’t leave them to the last day or decide to plan it when you arrive. This will save you a lot of time and make your decisions a lot easier.
Look for Discounted Flight Deals
Usually, the airlines will put the tickets for sale on Tuesdays. So it is wise to search for a flight around that time to grab a good deal. Or you can search for different dates
Eat smart to avoid being ill
Try to eat healthily when you arrive at your destination, especially for the first few days until you get some of your energy back by fixing your sleeping schedule. It will be easier to digest your food and decrease the chance of catching a virus from cheap and unhealthy foods. So follow the rule, if the restaurant is empty and the food does not look appealing, don’t buy and eat it. Try a different and better option.
Take pictures and take notes of documents.
Better be safe than sorry. Taking pictures of your passport, visa and other travel documents are a good idea in case it gets lost. You will save some time and frustration. You can also put important addresses and phone numbers into your phone or write them on a piece of paper to have a backup.
Try different cities
Most people will probably choose the most famous city in the country to go to and see, but you should sometimes give other cities a chance if you have the time. Sometimes different cities in most countries have a different atmosphere, feeling and have unique places to see and experience.
Stay away from touristy areas after your first day
Well, your first time in the country or in the city and obviously you’ll get to see the main attractions and touristy areas. however, don’t stay there too long and explore local life and other nice areas where you can escape from the tourist crowds and have better experiences.
Get out of your comfort zone and enjoy your time.
One of my favorite saying of all time is “two birds with one stone.” While you are traveling you can experience and see many things in a short period. Try different activities, make time to go see most of the attractions, eat local, and try different kinds of foods. Don’t just stay and sit at a café all day. You should also walk, get out to meet new people, and get some fresh air and sunshine.
Matt M. Eccles is the founder of Vitality and Happiness Blog. He is a philosopher, psychology enthusiast, wellness and digestion expert, author, and world traveler who is passionate about helping others reach and experience optimum health, true happiness, and increased vitality. The purpose of this website is to motivate and inspire people to handle life’s challenges. Uplift and encourage you to succeed in life and be happy and healthy, increase life quality, and become the best version of yourself.