After dreaming about your big holiday for ages, you’ve finally booked a ticket and circled the dates on the calendar! While you gear up mentally for the amazing adventures to come, it’s time to take care of some preparations that will help your trip go as smoothly as possible. Here are a few tips to help you get ready to take off with a clear mind:
Money money
Bring along a valid debit and credit card when you travel, and make sure you have enough money in your account to cover your travels along with extra for emergencies. When you’re heading overseas, do a search online to find partner banks in the places you’ll be to avoid huge ATM fees. Don’t forget to call your bank to let them know you’ll be travelling, otherwise they could see the activity abroad as suspicious and put a hold on your card. Understand the local currency before you go to avoid getting ripped off.
Visas
It’s very important to understand the visa requirements for any country you plan to visit. This generally isn’t an issue for a short trip, but if you plan on travelling for a month or more you might need special visas. As a Brit travelling to the US, or visa versa, you can stay for three months on a simple tourist visa. But the rules are different for countries in Southeast Asia and outside of the European Union, so make sure you understand these before you go.
Research Accommodations
There are many cheaper options for accommodations other than the standard hotel, especially if you do adequate research beforehand. Check out couchsurfing.com to connect with locals offering up a free bed or couch to travelers; it’s a great way to experience the local scene as well as make great connections. If you’re shorter on time, airbnb.com is a place where locals offer up rooms or even an entire house or apartment for a fixed rate, usually much cheaper than a hotel. Research the best areas to stay outside of the main tourist traps to avoid skyrocket prices at restaurants in the area.
Travel Insurance
When you’re travelling, it can be important to prepare for any kind of situation that might occur. Purchasing travel insurance is a great way to find peace of mind before you set out on your journey, so make sure you view this company here. Travel insurance can cover everything from natural disasters and losing your passport to robbery, personal injury and even missing your flight. Choose between plans with various coverage to find what’s right for you on your trip.