What are some tips that help you travel smarter? It appears that nearly every traveler has had to learn the hard way. If you’ve traveled enough, you’re likely familiar with the frustrations: flight cancellations, baggage delays, declined credit cards, or hotels that don’t match their online photos.
While we often learn through trial and error, here are five tips that I believe can help you travel smarter:
1. Consider what airport you are arriving to during connections:
This is important to keep in mind because a lot of airports are very big and that can be a problem if you have a relatively short layover. Most airlines will wait for the passengers, especially if the connecting flight is the same airline but its better to err on the side of caution. Which brings me to the second point:
2. Study the airport layout before landing:
A lot of travelers miss this important step. As mentioned, some airports are a lot bigger and more confusing than others. Therefore, it can save one a lot of time to know where everything is located prior to arriving.
3. Get a City Card when you arrive at the airport:
Most cities around the world have their very own card that offers you discounted prices on public transport and exhibitions.
4. Use Google Maps Offline:
Download maps of your destination on Google Maps before you leave. That way you will be able to navigate without needing an internet connection. I do this one a lot if I know I am in a city that is very walkable.
5. Check for Free Layover Tours:
Did you know that some airports offer free city tours for passengers with long layovers? I wish I had knew this many moons ago. But it is a great way to explore a new city at no added cost.
6. Carry a reusable water bottle:
How many of us have experienced the dread of forgetting about a water bottle before checking into security only to have it thrown out? A reusable water bottle fixes this problem easily as there are many water stations in airports. Bonus: It helps reduce plastic waste and prevents you from having to buy overpriced airport water.
7. Expect the unexpected but keep a positive mind
As mentioned earlier, travelling is stepping out of your comfort zone and it means you are in environments that are not the same as back home. There are so many things that are different: the air, water, rules, language, etc. So, its a good idea to remember to expect the unexpected while at the same time keeping a positive mind.
At the end of the day, a great travel expeience is a combination of preparation and a positive outlook.
Happy Meandering!