Travel is one of those things that everyone can get into, but in which not everyone really excels. Making travel arrangements can be a fast, painless thought-free process. However, getting the best deals and making the best plans, takes a little more effort. Here are a few tips for maximizing the benefits that good travel planning can bring.
If you are traveling to an area that has a high level of crime, consider purchasing your own padlock for the hotel room door. These locks are more difficult to pick than the ones the hotel will have already and no one in the hotel will have a spare to let in “visitors”.
Don’t be afraid to cash in your airline miles. Many travelers let their miles accumulate and never bother using them. Reap the rewards of your traveling and spend the miles you’ve earned! Miles have expiration dates, so be sure to use them before they expire. Often you can use them on items other than travel, so check out your options and get to spending.
When traveling, make sure you make a list of all the items you want to take with you. This will help you to not forget something as simple as a tooth brush or deodorant. You can save money by buying these items before you leave rather then wasting unnecessary money and time while you are traveling.
You may want to use the restroom before boarding the plane, if possible. You will be much more comfortable using a restroom that is on steady ground and that has a good amount of room to move around. Once on the plane, you never know how long someone will need the restroom and you don’t want to take that chance.
If you are traveling to a developing country and are afraid of flying into the middle of nowhere, there are alternatives. You can land at a Western-style airport and use ground transport, such as the train or bus, to arrive at your final destination. This may be safer than flying through the bush but will still allow you to enjoy your exotic vacation.
If you or a travel companion is seriously allergic or sensitive to cigarette smoke, don’t just ask for a non-smoking room. Requesting that your room be located on a non-smoking floor ensures that your neighbors will not be smoking in their rooms when the doors are opened, and that smoke will not carry between windows of rooms on the same floor.
Don’t get slammed with phone bill shock when you return home from traveling. Make a quick call to your service provider about what to expect when using your cell at your travel destination. Adjust your rate plan temporarily in accordance can save you massive headaches when that wireless bill arrives.
Everyone on board a plane, train or ship, has something in common, they have all paid for the privilege of being there. Some passengers seem happier than others, though. These are the wise travelers, who have made an effort to arrange their travel plans for maximum convenience and economy. A little education can help you to join their ranks and travel with a smile.