Here are some frequent travel mistakes and how to avoid them.
I've done my fair share of traveling and along the way I've made my fair share of mistakes! Take it from me and avoid those travel mistakes with these quick do's and don'ts!
DON'T Overpack
Once you're out and about the chances are higher of you buying more things to fill your bag. Traveling light is your best bet because you never know what's in store when you go to a different country.
You don't want your bag overweight because you'll pay more to check it in. If you're backpacking you need all the room you can spare on the carry-on.
NOT Being Alert to Scammers and Thieves.
Don't be naïve to think it couldn't happen to you because it is more than possible for that to happen. Keeping your valuables close is super important, Fanny packs are an easy fix. Tip: Don't leave your purse or book bag on the seat at a restaurant. You're basically turning your back on all your stuff and no one wants to lose their passport and money especially when you have to pay afterward!
DON’T exchange money at the airport
Airport exchange rates will possibly rip you off. Most of the times ATM have better exchange rates than you would if you were to get the cash out at the Airport. Do some research to see if you have any local Money exchanges that have a low exchange rate.
NOT Informing Your Credit Card Company of Your Travel Plans
The worst thing you can do is forget to make your credit card companies aware of your travels. Especially if you don't have service might be an issue at your travel destination!
Let them know at least a week in advance so your card won't decline when your traveling! Look into if your credit cards charge any international fees so you're prepared ahead of time.
DON’T eat near a major tourist site
A mistake most tourists make is eating out near a major tourist site. The prices will be inflated for the simple fact of location! So pick a place you have to do a little bit of walking to get to.
You will still find great food at much better prices! A great tip is to ask locals, they know all the good spots. So ask around and you can find yourself surrounded by amazing food!
NOT Checking the Voltage & Plugs
What most people don't think about is plug-ins is they are very different all over the world. This is a major culture shock especially to those people who have never been out of the country. Walmart and Amazon are great places that sell adaptors so make sure you're prepared. (buy a backup if possible)
You never know how these brands are going to work once you go out of the country and plug them in! Check which country you're going to know which you're using. Also bringing hair styling products like blow dryers, curling irons, and straighteners that are dual voltage so they don't burn out. You don't want to try buying those products in a foreign country.
DON’T rule out hostels
If you're traveling solo or with friends or even as a couple, hostels should not be taken out of the equation. Often people make the assumption that it's only for single travelers. Couples can benefit from hostels though you have separate rooms a little bit of space can't hurt especially if you're around someone all day.
You also get to enjoy the good times with some new friends you make! Traveling is all about making memories and a hostel is a great place to make some especially if you're an extrovert who loves to converse with new people. A lot of hostels have bars so it's a great place to relax by a pool with a drink without paying resort and hotel prices.
NOT Carrying a Copy of Your Passport and Credit Cards
This backup could save your life in the long run. In case you do end up losing your passport and if your wallet goes missing along with all your cards.
Having this is always good in case of emergencies but be careful with your card copies because in the wrong hands could result in major missing funds.
DON’T Skip the Local Tourist Centers
The local tourist center or visitors center can be very useful. These locals know the must dos around the city and great information you might need to know.
You can even end up finding something to do that was nowhere in your plans. They also tend to be the perfect places to get a lay of the land along with great tips!
NOT Doing Your Research
This is crucial. You must be well informed about the place you're going to. You could end up losing out by not doing research ahead of time!
Knowing how far the restaurants are and local excursions are huge factors you will need to look into. Doing research on hotels and what they include can give you a huge opportunity to take advantage of what's on-site.