Photo credit – Potowizard /Shutterstock
While traveling, especially to different countries, it’s important to stay safe while turning up. You can easily find yourself in an unwanted situation if you’re not careful.
Take a look at these travel tips, and keep this handy next time you book an international flight!
1. It wouldn’t hurt to go to your doctor for a checkup before heading out to another country. Make sure your body is in good shape and your overall health is intact. Nothing is worse than getting sick or needing medication in another country, where they may not speak your language or accept your insurance. Don’t forget to bring your medication with you!
2. Before booking your hotel, check out their reviews. Start with a basic google search to see if any crazy news headlines are associated with that resort. Then, check out review sites like Angie’s List to see what people are really saying about their experience. You can also ask around and get feedback from your close friends/co-workers.
3. Once your doctor gives you the green light and you’ve chosen your destination, now it’s time to get your documents in order. Make sure your passport is up to date. You should also make copies of it (take one with you and lead a copy at home) in case you lose it or misplace it.
4. Next, take a look at your travel destination’s monetary conversion. Let your bank know that you’ll be out of the county, this way they don’t block you from using your card. Figure out how much spending money you’ll need to take, and bring a little extra just in case.
Side note: The conversion centers in some airports may be overpriced, research if there is a bank you can use near your hotel.
5. You should also let your cell phone company know that you’re traveling out the county. Make sure you know the guidelines of your plan so you’re not hit with additional outrageous fees.
6. Be aware of a country’s enter and exit fees. It’s not always included in your flight and can range from $25-200.
7. Be sure to pack all of your essentials! Walgreens and corner stores out the country can charge more for simple items like soap, so save yourself some coins and bring everything you need with you. In addition, bring chargers and adaptors, not all outlets are the same in other countries.
Side note: pack a few of your favorite snacks also.
Side note 2: I personally wouldn’t travel with expensive items like jewelry.
8. Pack an extra set of clothing and a toothbrush in your carry on bag. Nothing sucks more than when the airport lost your luggage, hopefully, that doesn’t happen, but you never know.
9. Have a plan of the places you want to visit and things you want to do beforehand. This will save you time and money possibly. Research all of the events/concerts going on while you will be there. Travelzoo and Groupon are great apps for trip deals.
10. It’s fun exploring off of the resort, but you MUST do your research first. Some five-star hotels are located in the outskirts of dangerous cities. Get advice from a few of the locals. Having a travel buddy is a great idea. Traveling alone isn’t the safest neither is driving at night in unfamiliar places. Let your family back home know where you are and what you’re doing, in the event something happens.
11. Don’t bring any illegal drugs to a country. You will be subject to THEIR LAWS once you’re in their country.
Most importantly, have fun!