You may feel guilty about attempting to take a vacation in this economy. This article is the perfect starting point for the economical traveler.
Create a list of the items you need to pack. You should make this list around a week to a couple months in advance so that you absolutely know what needs to be packed. Even if you won’t have time to pack until the last minute, having a list will keep you organized.
Don’t get set on just one destination.; flexibility is key. Though you may have established favorites, it is always fun to mix things up with some new spots. In addition, an alternate destination can help you stretch a tight travel budget.
Only bring the absolute essentials when you travel. You won’t have to drag around as much weight or keep track of as much stuff. The fewer things carried, the less the chances of having the items stolen or lost. Try not to pack too many shoes, as this tends to be the heaviest item.
Bring a doorstop for safety reasons. This can help hold a door closed too.
If you’re going to be staying at a hotel, pack a door stopper. Occasionally, particularly when you travel in countries that are less developed, it’s important to stay in a hotel room that has more security. Use a doorstop when you retire for the night, especially if your door doesn’t have a chain or a deadbolt.
If you are taking a small child in a long car ride, plan on taking breaks every few hours. Breaks give you the chance to stretch your limbs and visit the bathroom. Getting little kids out of cars here and there can help them avoid motion sickness. Your trip might get longer, but you will appreciate the drop in stress.
Don’t go to sleep before 8pm local time if you are adjusting to a different time zone. Try to stay awake until the right time, even if you feel tired from jet lag. If you sleep too early, you may end up feeling jet lagged for longer. Adjusting to local time is best way to defeat the effects of jet lag.
Buying a second passport photo is a good idea when traveling abroad. Getting a replacement passport can take awhile if you lose it or it gets stolen. In order to speed up the process, you should keep a spare photo on hand. Remember to bring the necessary documentation that you might have to have with you, too.
Fly early in the day to avoid delays. Usually when flights are delayed it’s because they are waiting for it to arrive at the airport, but if you take the first flight out, chances are the plane is already there. Very few things usually delay the first morning flight.
Tip generously during your cruise. When boarding your cruise ship, give the steward $20. You will be seeing a lot of the same faces helping you while you are on the cruise. When they see you as a generous passenger, they will likely offer great service.
The bad economy might have you feeling as though you should pass on this year’s vacation. If you follow the guidelines from this article, you will be one step closer to jet-setting the economical way.
