Most people aren’t naturally experts at traveling. It is a quality that can only be acquired through on-the-road experience. Use these travel tips to become savviest traveler you know.
You commit numerous travel errors in the beginning.
Missing buses, acting irresponsibly, not understanding the culture, and making a million other small mistakes all help people learn how to travel well. Then, one day, you start blending into new cultures and navigating airports with ease.
I put together this extensive list of my best travel tips to help you become a travel guru and avoid making the same mistakes I did (which I made a lot of).
Over the years, I’ve picked up these tips and tricks.
With these travel tips and reviews, you’ll be able to cut costs, get more local experiences, meet people, sleep better, and generally be a better traveler.
Below are the best 60 travel tips and reviews to become the world’s savviest traveler:
1. Travel light
Wearing the same t-shirt several days in a row is OK. Take half the amount of clothing you anticipate needing. Not nearly as much as you believe. Make a list of necessities, divide it in half, and only bring that! In addition, you won’t have much space for other items since you, as I said, purchased a little backpack!
2. Always pack a towel
It’s essential to successful globetrotting as a nomad, as well as basic common sense. Whether it’s at the beach, on a picnic, or just to dry off, you never know when you’ll need it. Even though most hostels have towels, you never know, and bringing a small towel won’t make your bag much heavier.
3. Purchase a compact bag or suitcase
You will be forced to pack lightly and refrain from carrying too many items if you get a small backpack (I prefer something around 35 or 40 liters). If you pack lightly but have a lot of spare room in your suitcase, you may wind up thinking, “Well, I guess I can take more,” only to later regret it. This is because humans have a natural tendency to want to fill space.
(Extra Travel Tips) Top luggage recommendations:
TravelPro: This a great option for travelers searching for a premium luggage line that won’t break the bank and emphasizes durability and adaptability.
Nomatic: Designed as “the most functional travel bag ever”, It is incredibly durable luggage that streamlines your travels and simplifies packing. Check out our full review of the Nomatic Roller Luggage as well.
4. Bring extra socks
You’ll lose a lot due to wear and tear, hiking, and laundry gnomes, so bringing extra will be helpful. I don’t take any more than I actually need. A brand-new pair of socks is the best!
5. Purchase quality footwear
In a foreign country, you walk a lot. Do not punish your feet. They will lead you to great places if you love them just as much as they love you.
6. Use miles and points to get free travel
When you don’t have to pay for something, you can accomplish much more in the world. You can get free flights, hotels, train tickets, and other forms of transportation if you learn how to travel hack and earn points and miles by spending money regularly. You should do it too because it’s what seasoned travelers do to cut costs when they travel.
7. Utilize fee-free credit cards
Give the banks none of your hard-earned cash. Spend money on your trips and keep it for yourself. Purchase a credit card and debit card with no foreign transaction or ATM fees. The little cash they take each time will really add up over a lengthy journey!
8. Bring along an extra credit card and bank card
Disasters do occur. In case you are robbed or misplace a card, it is always a good idea to carry a backup. You don’t want to be stranded without access to your money somewhere new. I’ve had cards lost, duplicated, and frozen before. I was unable to utilize it for the rest of my journey. I was glad to have an extra because my friend didn’t and had to constantly beg money from me
9. Document your clothing and luggage
This will make it simpler to find your bag in the event that it is lost and will hasten the process of getting your travel insurance reimbursed.
10. Book your flights two to three months in advance for the best deals
Avoid going too wild trying to find the cheapest fare possible. You can avoid a lot of stress and anxiety by not trying to save $12 for five hours of research.
11. Enroll in flight deals
Your flight(s) will probably be your biggest travel-related expense. Join websites offering flight deals like Secret Flying, The Flight Deal, and Scott’s Cheap Flights to save money. You’ll save time and money by getting amazing flight bargains delivered right to your email. Also, make sure you sign up for emails from airlines because that’s where they’ll announce sales first. Travel tips like this one will save you money.
12. Avoid direct flights
Sometimes it is less expensive to schedule flights that land at airports near your final destination, then take a train or bus to your destination. Always compare prices for your flight, and keep in mind that direct routes aren’t always the cheapest option.
(Extra Travel Tips) Top Flight Websites:
Skyscanner: My go-to website for discovering low-cost flights is Skyscanner. It looks up many different airlines, including many of the low-cost ones that larger websites overlook.
Google Flights: One of the greatest flight search tools available, Google Flights allows you to enter your departure airport and view flights all around the world on a map to choose the locations with the cheapest fares.
Find more options in our article 15 Best Websites for Cheap Flights.
13. When in airport security lines, always follow business travelers
They travel light and move quickly since they frequently have a deadline. They are familiar with the procedure. Get behind them, and you’ll cut through the crowd quickly!
14. Pass through airport security with an empty metal bottle of water and fill it up before reaching your gate
When possible, drink directly from the faucet to conserve money and the environment. Get a water bottle with a filter if you’re heading somewhere where the water isn’t fit for consumption. Lifestraw and Grayl are two of my favorites.
15. Avoid using a money belt
Since thieves are aware that they exist, carrying one essentially says, “Look at me, I’m a tourist with money!” Scam me!” The more you can act like a local and blend in, the easier it will be to find deals and avoid touts. Keep a closer eye on your belongings if pickpockets are something that worries you.
16. Only bring what you absolutely need when you go out
Reduce the amount of money and credit cards you take with you so that you can quickly recover if something does go wrong. Never travel with more than one ATM or credit card. I follow the rule of carrying no more than $50 USD in cash.
17. Purchase your attraction tickets in advance
You may make a reservation and skip the line at many popular attractions. Always check online to see if there is a choice for this. By doing this, you can skip the lengthy lineups and enter right away. I’ve witnessed long lines for the Paris Catacombs, Louvre, and Churchill War Rooms in London, as well as for other attractions like temples, churches, and old fortifications. Pre-book the day before to avoid the line and maximize your day’s sightseeing! You’ll be bragging about these travel tips after you use them.
(Extra Travel Tips) Top attraction and tour companies:
GetYourGuide: Locates the best excursions and activities in your area. With the aid of more than 2 million dependable reviews, find the best activities for your trip.
Viator: This company offers top things to do across the world; reservations for city tours, helicopter tours, day trips, theater tickets, and sightseeing excursions.
Tiquets: Opens the doors of culture to those who don’t want to wait in culture’s long lines. Discover your destination, plan on the go, and store your tickets offline
.
Find more options in our article Top 15 Websites for Tours and Activities in 2023.
18. Make copies of your passport and other crucial papers
Don’t forget to send yourself a copy through email as well. Never assume that you will always need to carry your original papers with you. Additionally, having a copy will be helpful for your police report if your passport is stolen.
19. Learn a basic understanding of the language of your destination
Travel tips 101. It will be appreciated by the locals, and it will facilitate great interactions. Learning a few phrases like “hello,” “goodbye,” “thank you!” and “where’s the bathroom?” will go a long way toward making friends with the locals, even if you don’t know the language fluently. They’ll appreciate your effort.
There are some phenomenal tools available to help you speak like a local. A couple of my favorites;
Pimsleur: The Pimsleur’s method, which has been scientifically validated, is so effective that you’ll begin speaking a new language after just one lesson. There is no studying, no memorization, no vocabulary, and no complex rules with the unique Pimsleur Method. As you go about your day, you can pick up any language you like.
Duolingo: A popular language-learning app (which is free, but includes a premium subscription). Many advise using the app as a beginning point with a variety of tactics, particularly as it relies heavily on translation and game-like learning methods.
20. Ask the workers at the hostel for advice even if you aren’t sleeping there
All day, every day, hostel staff members deal with budget travelers. They know the exact locations of the cheapest restaurants and sights. They frequently reside there, so they have extensive local knowledge. Ask them for any information you want. You can still stop by and ask for assistance even if you aren’t staying there. Usually, they’ll grant it.
21. Venture out on your own at least once
You’ll discover a lot about who you are and how to take control of your life. Although that is a cliche, it is true. I quickly learned how to take care of myself, interact with other people, and navigate new circumstances by traveling alone. In addition to allowing me to be extremely egotistical and do anything I want, it has helped me feel at ease with who I am and taught me about my capabilities. If you’ve never done it before, it may take some getting used to, but give it a shot at least once. Surprise yourself by making yourself uncomfortable. Don’t overlook these travel tips. When you push yourself, you’ll gain useful life skills.
22. It’s OK to use a map
Don’t be afraid to look like a tourist if you accidentally find yourself in the wrong neighborhood. Use a map, ask for directions, and don’t be embarrassed if you appear to be a tourist because you are one. When I travel, I always have a map on hand. It has helped me find my destination more than once!
23. Don’t be scared to get lost on purpose
A smart approach to getting to know a new city, veering off the usual route, and avoiding visitors is to wander aimlessly through it. You never know what kind of treasures you’ll unearth. I enjoy exploring new places and attempting to navigate without the aid of Google Maps.
24. Always stop by the local tourism bureau
The tourism bureaus can tell you about free things to do and interesting events happening in the area while you’re there. Even transportation and activities are discounted there. They are there to assist you in having a more enjoyable trip. It’s remarkable how many visitors overlook this when they are there, but you, as a seasoned traveler, are aware of its value! This is probably one of the world’s least-applied travel tips. Take advantage of the tourism bureau! Spend less!
25. Purchase travel protection
The most crucial purchase you can make is travel insurance, which you hope you never need. You don’t want to lose hundreds of dollars in debt if something goes wrong. It will be available if you are robbed, have your flights canceled, become ill or hurt, or need to return home. One of the best investments you can make for a vacation is this thorough guide, which costs just a few bucks per day.
You may believe that you are superhuman, but you’re not. That swan dive off the cliffs in Bali could end up costing you thousands of dollars out of pocket because you didn’t invest in travel insurance. You may believe that you are superhuman, but you’re not. That swan dive off the cliffs in Bali could end up costing you thousands of dollars out of pocket because you didn’t invest in travel insurance.
(Extra Travel Tips) Top insurance companies:
SafetyWing: Travelers in need of basic coverage might choose SafetyWing as a cost-effective option. They make filing a claim simple, provide excellent customer service, and are reasonably priced. Consider SafetyWing if money is scarce. See our full review here: SafetyWing Travel Insurance: The Ultimate Review 2023 article
World Nomads: Travelers who want more safety on their trip can choose from a number of comprehensive plans with a lot of coverage from World Nomads.
Insure My Trip: The best travel insurance for people over 70 is Insure My Trip.
Find more options in our article Top 5 Travel Insurance Companies In 2023.
26. Never follow families
It takes an eternity when in line with families. They are not to blame. Their kids have simply given them a lot of stuff to keep under their watchful eye. Avoid standing in lines where there are plenty of children. It will take some time.
27. Do not hesitate to request an upgrade when you check into the hotel
When it comes to deciding which upgrades to give out upon check-in, they have a lot of discretion. Asking never hurts. If the hotel isn’t completely booked, they can frequently accommodate you. Just be very gracious!
28. The ideal time to see historical sites is during lunch
Be a skeptic. Fewer people will be in your way because most tourists, large tour buses, and groups are heading to lunch. It’s always advisable to go to an attraction really early, really late, or at mealtime. Even the busiest locations will be all to yourself!
29. Never eat at or near a tourist attraction
I usually have to walk a minimum of four blocks in any direction to find a restaurant. You will pay more and have inferior meals the closer you are to tourist attractions. Use services like Yelp, Google Maps, or more localized resources such as OpenRice to find some good, well-known restaurants in your area.
Never eat some place if the menu is in more than three languages! That indicates that the eatery only serves tourists.
30. Enjoy lunch at upscale establishments
Even the most prestigious restaurants offer lunch specials that are half the price of their dinner menu. When you are traveling, that is the ideal time to dine out.
31. You shouldn’t eat out every night; eat as the locals do
Visit the grocery store. Seeing what kind of food people buy could tell you a lot about their eating habits. Additionally, you will save a ton of money. You won’t be sorry. Prepare your own meals, save money, and delight yourself!
32. Pick up a book
If you don’t know anything about a place’s past, you simply cannot understand it today. Learn as much as you can about the places you are going. You’ll gain a deeper grasp of the location you’ve been wanting to visit for so long thanks to it!
33. Carry a small first-aid kit with you
Accidents do occur, so be ready. For small wounds and scrapes, I use bandages, antibacterial creams, and ointments. You can’t always obtain it when you travel, and you never know when you’ll need it.
34. Hostels are your friend
You’ll meet a lot of people; they’re inexpensive, and they’re just a ton of fun! It’s a fantastic way to meet like-minded, savvy travelers such as yourself.
35. Meet the locals
By linking you with residents in the places you travel to, these websites will assist you in getting an insider’s perspective on your vacation. This sharing network has transformed how people travel, enabling you to connect with locals, veer away from the tourist trail, and save a ton of cash! I always use this resource when I travel, so it’s a win-win-win.
(Extra Travel Tips) Preferred websites for sharing and networking community when traveling:
Meetup: People have used Meetup for 20 years to meet new people, form friendships, get support, and pursue their hobbies. Every day, thousands of events take place around the globe.
Couchsurfing: You can stay for free in people’s spare rooms or on their couches. It’s an excellent opportunity to meet locals and save money while learning far more about a place than you would learn from a hostel or hotel.
Airbnb: This website connects you with property owners who let you stay in their homes or apartments.
EatWith: This is a fantastic way to try something new, learn from a local, and meet new people. There is a fee (everyone decides their own price).
BlaBlaCar: A ridesharing website that enables you to share rides with verified local drivers in exchange for gas contributions. You only ask for a seat, they grant it, and you proceed.
Gumtree: This is a fantastic resource for travelers and is similar to Craigslist. You can discover homestays, rideshares, employment, used equipment, and much more.
36. Wear sunscreen
Take care of your skin. Scientists have demonstrated the long-term advantages of sunscreen. Follow the science. You’ll be glad you did.
37. Be welcoming to new people
Some people don’t bite. Say hello to people as they pass by. Make acquaintances with strangers. Keep in mind that they are just like you! They also have ambitions and dreams and want to have a happy, fulfilling life! You can’t be sure. You might even meet some pals for life.
38. Remain vigilant
Maintain a healthy degree of mistrust since some people do bite. You don’t want to fall victim to any travel fraud or put yourself in awkward circumstances. Be alert, yet wary.
39. Explore new foods
Don’t ask what it is. Simply put it in your mouth to determine whether you like it. You can miss out on some unique and delectable local cuisine if you become too guarded with your meals.
40. Go on free walking tours
Not only are these tours free, but they will also tell you a lot about the history of the place you are visiting and give you a good overview of the area. When I travel, I absolutely love going on walking tours. You get to relax, ask the guide a ton of questions, and discover a ton about your current location! When you travel, go on a walking tour!
41. City attraction cards
A city pass will save you money on admission if you want to visit numerous museums and other sites in a short amount of time (plus, most offer free public transit too!).
42. Avoid using taxis
They consistently blow the budget to pieces. Take public transportation whenever possible instead of a taxi!
43. Carry cash for emergencies
Emergencies happen. Once, in the middle of the Dutch countryside, my train caught fire and melted to the tracks (no one was hurt). Thankfully, I had cash for a supplement fee for the next train that arrived. I always make an effort to have about $200 USD in emergency funds, just in case!
44. Learn how to barter
A pleasant and entertaining approach to avoid paying the foreigner’s fee is to haggle. It is the art of negotiating, and it will be useful to you not only at the market but also in all aspects of life.
45. Grab your jacket
If you are in Thailand during the summertime, you probably won’t need a jacket, but chances are, the evenings will be a bit on the chilly side.
46. Eat street vendor food
Don’t miss out on the culture by not eating street cuisine. Do not be frightened. Look for places where children are eating if you’re feeling uneasy. You are safe if it’s safe for them.
47. Don’t be embarrassed to enter a corporate chain
There are times when comfort comes from familiarity, and locations like Starbucks offer free wifi and accessible public facilities.
48. Take it slow
All will be well in the end. No haste is necessary. You’ll eventually arrive at your destination. Travel is about the experience, not the destination. Don’t ignore these travel tips. Especially this one.
49. Show respect
Keep calm when something doesn’t go your way because the locals are eager to assist you, but there may be a language barrier. If you don’t, you’ll merely come out as a tourist who doesn’t know anything.
50. Try not to over plan your travels
Allow your days to develop spontaneously. Plan two or three tasks and let the rest of the day take care of itself. One of the finest ways to travel is to just let the day take you; it’s much less stressful.
51. Be thrifty, but not cheap
Be careful not to spend your money foolishly. Look for discounts so you don’t waste money, but don’t miss out on fun things or walk ten miles to save a few dollars. Money is time. Use each of them wisely.
52. Don’t forget the ear earplugs
You need to sleep. Avoid the noisy city sounds or the person snoring in the other room. Get your sleep when you can; you have a big day tomorrow.
53. Always keep an additional USB charger on hand
Batteries run out. Your cheerfulness may be dependent on it.
54. Photograph people. And yourself
Take a lot of pictures. Years from now, you’ll want to remember those nights and the people who helped make them unforgettable.
55. Get your shots
Because contracting a disease while traveling is not fun, and many nations require vaccinations in order to enter, regardless of your feelings on the matter, you may be forced to.
56. Always keep a lock with you
They are useful, especially if you’re staying in hostels and need to lock up your belongings. When traveling, keep a compact combination lock with you. Use one without keys instead, because if you misplace the keys, you can find yourself in a pickle.
57. Buy your tickets online
Book any excursions or activities you have planned for your trip online. Companies typically offer a lower price when compared to in-person purchases. You’ll also be able to pay with a credit card, which will give you more protection and travel rewards!
58. Adjust your sleep schedule
Jet lag, restless nights, and under-eye bags as big as your suitcase are all symptoms of flying into an unfamiliar time zone. Get on the local schedule as soon as possible to avoid that.
59. Discover the quickest methods for overcoming jet lag
The best techniques to minimize jet lag or at least get rid of it quickly include drinking lots of water, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and getting plenty of fresh air. Even better, a shower is equivalent to a liquid nap.
60. Keep Notes
It never hurts to scribble a few things down or make an Apple note. You’ll be shocked at how simple it is to forget those private little moments, like when you caught someone’s eyes, or the more subtle details, like the aroma of that fresh pasta on the patio. One day you’ll wish beyond everything else to recall.
There you have it, folks! My best travel tips! You’ll quickly become the savviest traveler you know if you can stick to them!
