Traveling is supposed to be relaxing. However, many people make a few careless mistakes that can possibly ruin their trip.
Whether people are traveling for the first time overseas, or have been to many places in a single year, common mistakes still slip their mind every once in a while. The good news is, travelers can still dodge these usual slip-ups with a little planning to make the most out of their trip.
Overpacking
In a time where many people prioritize posting ootds on their social media accounts, overpacking is tempting. The best way to avoid this is to make sure to only pack essential things, and clothes that can be paired with everything.
Once the luggage is set, take time to review it again and try to reduce the weight. It is also recommended to leave a little room in the bag in case something in the destination is worth buying and taking home.
Another useful tip is to weigh the baggage before heading to the airport to make sure that additional baggage fees would not be added.
Having A Very Tight Itinerary
Going to a place for the first time can be overwhelming. Cramming all sights and tourist destinations in a short time will surely give travelers a headache. Not only will people get tired easily, they will also have no chance to fully appreciate the vibe of the place.
The best way to avoid this is to be flexible. Do not try to fit too many destinations on the trip because plans might get canceled due to unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather or money shortage. It is also recommended to factor in additional travel time to make room for rest and reflection. Remember, traveling is not synonymous to visiting the whole place.
Passport Issues
Those who are traveling need to be acquainted with their passport's expiration date because it does not mean that they can use it until the expiry date. Some destinations require visitors to have at least 3-6 months of passport validity in order to enter, so make sure to do homework.
Browsing The Internet All The Time
Many people make the mistake of turning on their phones overseas without knowing of the possible bill that may come after the trip. Before browsing the internet, make sure to set a plan in order to avoid high and unwanted charges.
Before leaving or upon arriving, it is also important to ask around for a SIM card to buy or a free Wi-Fi available.
Booking Connecting Flights With Little Time In Between
Tempting as it may seem, booking flights with time schedules that are too tight is a recipe for a disaster. Travelers are no strangers to inconvenient flight delays. As a matter of fact, Bureau of Transportation Statistics reported that in 2016, 24.8 percent of its flights were delayed. Having a layover that is too short may make you bid goodbye to your connecting flight.
