If you’re planning your next trip or vacation, you may be wondering how you can make the most out of your time away. Sure, you can go into your travels blindly, dealing with experiences as they come, but this may leave you unprepared and create stress along the way. While you don’t have to plan out every last detail of your trip ahead of time, there are many tips and tricks that can make you the world’s savviest traveler.

In this article, you’ll find 50 travel tips, perfect for both beginner travelers and the experienced explorer. These tips are designed to help you stay safe, have fun, and immerse yourself in the full experience of your trip!

World's Savviest Traveler

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1. Carry Backup Money

You don’t want to run into money troubles on your travels, but sometimes, they’re unavoidable. Some shops may only take cash, while others may not take a certain brand of credit card (AMEX, for example). Have a variety of payment options to ensure you stay afloat while you’re away.

2. Call Your Bank Ahead of Time

Speaking of money, one of the most important travel tips is to call your bank before your departure to let them know you’re going to be traveling. This allows your bank or credit card company to remove any securities barriers that would prevent you from accessing your funds while you’re away.

3. Money Belts Are a No-No

Sure, it may seem convenient to use a money belt or a similar accessory, but when you’re in a crowded street or shop, you’re more susceptible to pick-pocketing. Keep your money in your front pocket, a zip-secured bag, or another secure location.

4. Pack Extra Socks & Underwear

Expect to be more active and on your feet for the duration of your trip. Sure, you can reuse a pair of shorts or a tank top you only wore for a few hours, but having extra pairs of socks and underwear keeps you feeling fresh and comfortable for your trip’s duration.

5. Leave Non-Essentials at the Hotel

You don’t need to bring everything with you everywhere you go. Keeping extra money and resources at the Hotel keeps them safe in case they’re lost or stolen. Also, you never know what fun purchases you’ll make when you’re out exploring!

6. Check Your Bank Card Policies

Did you know that some bank cards include foreign transaction fees? If you’re traveling overseas or internationally, check with your bank or credit card company to know what extra fees they have and use the ones that are most budget-friendly.

7. Choose a Smaller Suitcase or Backpack

Traveling with large, bulky luggage can weigh you down, especially if you plan to carry a bag with you on your travels. Opt for a smaller bag that allows you to bring just enough essentials.

8. Only Pack the Essentials

Regardless of the size of the suitcase you bring, try to only pack the essentials. If you’re going to be gone for just a few days, only bring a few outfits and essential body care supplies. Save room for new clothes and touristy purchases you’ll make when you’re away.

9. Consider a Hostel

A hostel is a communal living arrangement, perfect for both solo travelers or anyone traveling in a pair. While you don’t have the same privacy or luxury as a standard hotel, hostels are much more affordable and budget-friendly.

10. Be Open to Travel Arrangements

A great way to save money is by choosing indirect flights. These flights have layovers in other cities and add a few extra hours to your travel times, but in the end, you can save tens to hundreds of dollars on your flight.

11. Book One Ways

Sometimes, round-trip flights are actually more expensive than two one-way flights. Book a flight one way on the cheapest date available, then find another one-way departure flight on the cheapest returning day.

12. Solo Travel

Solo traveling puts you out of your comfort zone and teaches you how to adapt to a new city or area on your own. You also have free range to plan your trip however you’d like and reconnect with yourself on a deeper level.

13. Watch Driving Simulation Videos

If you’re anxious about driving to your travel destination, driving simulation videos are a great way to ease your mind. On YouTube, search “[Travel destination] driving video” and get a first-hand look at what you can expect on the road.

14. Visit Tourism Offices

Most towns or cities have a tourism office designed to help tourists make the most out of their trips. If you’re unsure of what to add to your itinerary or can’t seem to find a certain destination, stop by one of these offices for maps, tourist knick-knacks, and guidance.

15. Stick to Bottled Water

If you’re traveling in the country of your residence, this doesn’t apply to you. But, if you’re traveling internationally, especially to an island or an underdeveloped area, stick to bottled water only, which your body will be able to handle.

16. Don’t Write an Itinerary

Sometimes, taking it day by day is the way to go while traveling. If you’re looking for an exciting experience, don’t plan anything ahead of time, and see where your travels take you once you arrive at your destination.

17. Plan, Plan, Plan!

On the other hand, if you’re someone who doesn’t plan well under pressure, try to create a rough itinerary ahead of time, researching different attractions and restaurants to eat at to help keep you on track throughout your trip.

18. Join a Walking Tour

Walking tours are led by local residents who show you different areas of a location that you may otherwise miss out on. These tours are both paid and free, and regardless of the city you’re traveling to, you’re sure to find one available.

19. Use Incognito Mode While Booking Flights

Did you know an airline may offer you different flight pricing depending on your geographical location? Don’t worry; booking your flight in the browser’s incognito or private browsing mode helps make sure you get the best deals on flights.

20. Book Your Flight On a Sunday

The day of the week you book your flight can influence the pricing options available to you. It’s been shown that Sunday appears to be the cheapest day of the week to book a flight, regardless of the airline or destination.

21. Use a Map

Using a map to navigate your travel destination has never been so easy! Pull up a map app on your phone for extra guidance while you explore!

22. Utilize Hotel Staff

Your Hotel’s staff are locals and can help recommend fun activities for you to do or their favorite restaurants. Ask them for recommendations while checking in.

23. Brush Up on the Local Language

If you’re traveling to a location where the residents speak a different language than yours, make time to learn basic phrases like “Please, thank you, where’s the bathroom, hello, etc.”.

24. Carry a Lock With You

Depending on where you stay, you may need a lock to keep your belongings safe. This is especially true if you’re staying in a hostel or AirBnB situation.

25. Make Copies of Your Documents

Always make copies of important documents in case you misplace them at the airport or throughout your travels, imagine you loose your passport while abroad ! Documents such as hotel reservations and car rental bookings should be kept both on your phone and as a physical copy.

26. Be Aware of Local Laws

Laws may not vary too much while traveling from state to state, but once you enter a new country, it’s important to know what’s legally acceptable and what’s not. Many countries’ laws vary greatly.

27. Arrive to the Airport Early

Many airports recommend arriving at least an hour and a half early. It’s hard to predict how long the TSA will take and how far your terminal is from the entrance, and having this extra time ensures you’re able to make your flight.

28. Upgrade Your Flight

If you have a little extra spending money, see if you can upgrade your flight a few days before or the day of your flight. You may be able to upgrade to first class for a fraction of the price!

29. Avoid Rush Hours

If you plan to visit tourist attractions, the best times are during lunch or dinner. Usually, most people are at restaurants at this time, creating more space for you to enjoy the attractions in peace.

30. Bring a Portable Charger

Getting lost is likely to happen on your travels, especially in a city you’ve never been before. That’s why it’s important to bring along portable chargers to keep your phone charged in case you need to use your GPS.

31. Eat At Local Favorites

Try to find a list online or recommendations from a true local on where you should eat on your travels. Eating at tourist spots is likely to overcharge for meals and be quite busy.

32. Stock Your Hotel Fridge With Snacks

Don’t overspend on hotel snacks and food; instead, buy cheaper options at a gas station or drug store nearby.

33. Stay Low-Key

It’s important not to draw too much attention to yourself, especially in areas that are known to have high petty theft rates. Try to blend in with the crowds around you as if you were a local to avoid any bad interactions.

34. Be Flexible

You never quite know what obstacles, challenges, or changes of plans may occur on your travels. Go into your trip with the intent to be flexible no matter what arises.

35. Bring First Aid Essentials

Bring a small pouch of bandaids, alcohol swabs, gauze, and other first-aid essentials. This is helpful, especially if you plan to participate in outdoor activities.

36. Visit Local Farmers Markets

If you’re looking for a way to cut down on the cost of food on your trip, visit a local farmers market for fresh produce, baked goods, and other delicious options for you to prepare at the Hotel or Airbnb.

37. Use Public Transportation

Public transportation is an affordable way to get from one attraction to the other. Using taxis or ride-share apps can be expensive, while public transportation is only a fraction of the price. This is also a great way to meet locals.

38. Buy Travel Insurance

Are you planning to travel to an international country for an extended period of time? You benefit from purchasing travel insurance, which helps with cost and services in the case of an emergency.

39. Important Items Go In Your Carry On

Put your most important items in your carry-on, such as your cell phone charger, laptop, or tablet. The carry-on remains on the plane and within reach, while your checked bag goes into the flight’s cabin and can sometimes get lost.

40. Take Photos of Parking

Having a photo of where you park your car at the airport or where you leave your rental in your travel destination helps remind you where to locate it.

41. Take Photos of Your Luggage

There’s always a chance your luggage gets lost along your flight. Take photos of all your belongings beforehand, and use that as proof in case anything is missing once your luggage shows back up, you have rights in the US as a passenger !

42. Bring Comfortable Shoes

Always bring a pair of comfortable shoes to wear. Your feet are going to be sore from all the walking, and having comfortable shoes can help make your trip more enjoyable.

43. Don’t Leave Tourist Areas at Night

Luckily, tourist areas in most cities are relatively safe at night. When you venture out of these areas, you’re less familiar with your surroundings and have a higher chance of running into trouble.

44. Don’t Be Afraid to Negotiate

Many tourist stands and vendors will upcharge products or services. See if you can negotiate on pricing before you make your purchase.

45. Know The Currency Exchange Rate

Don’t go into a new country blindly when it comes to money. Make sure you have a solid understanding of the exchange rate so that you don’t get scammed out of your money.

46. Don’t Use Free Public Wifi

Public Wi-Fi enables strangers access to your device. Only use trusted Wi-Fi sources while traveling to keep your devices safe and secure.

47. Respect New Cultures

Traveling presents you with people and cultures that may be much different than what you’re used to. Go into the experience with an open heart and be respectful, allowing you to sink into the full experience.

48. Bring Clothes for All Temperatures

If you’re traveling somewhere warm, bring a pair of pants, a long sleeve, or a jacket. Some locations may have warm weather during the day, and yet temperatures drop significantly at night.

49. Be Cautious With Everyone You Meet

Always be cautious with anyone you meet, whether it’s a taxi driver or a local pedestrian. You always want to be aware of your surroundings to ensure your safety.

50. Get Out of Your Comfort Zone

Traveling is a great way to get out of your comfort zone. Try to find attractions and experiences you wouldn’t normally do at home, and see how easy it is to enjoy new aspects of life when you’re in a new place surrounded by strangers!

You’re Ready For Your Travels !

Now that you’ve learned the best 50 travel tips to make you the world’s savviest traveler, you’re ready to start your adventure! Use the tips and tricks outlined in this article to help find the best flight, keep your belongings safe, and explore your travel destination as if you were a true local.

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