Many people are scared by the idea of organizing travel independently. Budget planning, language barriers, security issues are justifiable reasons for concern. But you should not be afraid, just a few simple tips and tricks will help you not only fully plan your trip, but also enjoy it.
Check account status
There is nothing worse than being in a foreign country with a blocked credit card. Many banks block transactions made from places atypical for you, suspecting that someone else is illegally using the card. To prevent this from happening during your trip, do not forget to warn your bank in advance about the trip.
Many companies allow you to do this through the online banking system. Such a simple action will allow you to shop anywhere without fear of being blocked.
Savings is a must
Sometimes the price for a long stay is lower than for a shorter one. Before confirming your reservation, compare the prices for the week and month of stay. Do not be afraid to ask the owner in more detail about the conditions and cost.
Such an approach will help you not only save money, but also learn more about the owner of the house. Ask all your questions: does it provide Wi-Fi and a hairdryer and can it recommend the best cafes and bars.
In solitude, but not alone
For those who want to travel with their own company, but who also appreciate communication and want to see the city through the eyes of a local resident, there is nothing better than staying in the same house with a hospitable host. Be sure to read the reviews of previous guests before confirming your reservation. And carefully review the photo at home to know what to expect.
So, if you book accommodation on Airbnb and want to make sure that the photos are original, check the Airbnb symbol in the upper right corner of the image. The phrase “Verified Photo” will mean that the photos were taken by a professional photographer.
Save time at the airport
Speed up your baggage claim. Waiting until it appears on the conveyor belt is extremely tiring. Experienced travelers know how to speed up this process.
If you are limited in time, study the airport map in advance and try to travel light. If you have fragile luggage, be sure to inform the reception. In this case, they will not only handle it neatly, but will also put it on top of the rest of the baggage, which means that it will first appear on the conveyor belt.
Relax on the road
When flying long distances, it’s almost impossible to stay fresh and look rested. Airline rules do not contribute to this either. Most of them set a limit on the transport of liquids and creams in hand luggage (usually up to 100 ml).
Experienced travelers often get out of the way by filling their lens containers with your favorite moisturizers and lotions. All this, complete with earplugs and a sleep mask, will help you sleep well in flight. Extra tip: take a face pack in a vacuum pack with you, it will be easy to carry on board.
There is no truth in the legs
Pressure drops during the flight can negatively affect your body, especially blood circulation. To avoid problems with veins and swelling of the legs, be sure to bring compression tights with you.
In addition, try to do some simple stretching exercises and walk around the cabin from time to time. In this case, your flight will be comfortable and will not bring blood circulation problems.
Being polite is nice
Perhaps the most important tip of all: be friendly and polite with the crew and passengers. You are unlikely to be transferred to first grade for this, but you will be provided with additional attention and a good attitude. In addition, being polite is correct and pleasant.
Verified payment method
It is extremely important to pay for any reservation through a special platform and not to transfer money directly, even if the owner offers an impressive discount.
A good plan is half the success
The plane landed and you received your luggage. Now you want to get to your place of residence as soon as possible, get rid of heavy bags and start exploring the city. Where to start? Make a list of places you want to visit.
You can get inspired using Instagram, Pinterest or Tumblr. In addition, you can use various guides that collect the best recommendations, both in book format and on the Internet .
Get local information
Communicate with the host you are staying with. Ask him in detail about the area and the city. Tips on where to find the best cafe with homemade food and what you should pay attention to besides the main attractions will help you feel like a local.
Trust but check
Be careful when checking in. Use this time wisely, check if everything is in order and is in place. If the information in the description on the site does not correspond to reality.
You can always contact the round-the-clock support service (Airbnb also has this), and specialists will help solve all your questions.
Students can enjoy the benefits
Student card holders can always find good discounts. If you are lucky to be a student, feel free to take advantage of this. A student card is the key to great deals and discounts around the world.
With it, you can buy cheap tickets to museums, and some even go for free.
Safety comes first
Always keep the necessary contacts close at hand, including emergency phone numbers. Usually the owners provide all the information at the time of check-in. Panic from scratch is not necessary, but it is better to always be prepared.
Lighten the load
Few travels without shopping. Souvenirs, new clothes – all these seemingly small things increase the weight of luggage. To avoid overweight fees, remember a few simple rules. Firstly, when going on a trip, take with you only the most necessary. Secondly, do not forget about hand luggage.
A small suitcase on wheels, a large shoulder bag or a laptop case will allow you to carry more things on board the aircraft. Thirdly, the most voluminous clothing, such as a coat or sweater, can be put on top of all other things. Right before you check in for a flight, you can get it on and put it on yourself. This will help get rid of a few extra pounds.
Bottom Line
Every travelling experience can turn out to be great when you are relax. So, just have fun and any trip can be the best in your life!
