We travel because we want a break from our usual routine. We want to be free from all the stress and focus our attention on discovering new cultures, food and surroundings. A stress-free exploration could not happen without the proper preparation. Everyone knows the last few days before a trip can be hectic. Whether you are going to the beach for a weekend or traveling abroad for a month (or two, or three), it’s easy to feel overwhelmed with all the tasks that need to be done. Here are the 10 essential things you should do before you travel:
1. Buy travel insurance
For most people, this is really only necessary if you are traveling outside of your home country. There are a variety of travel insurance plans and options, but they typically cover emergency medical coverage, evacuation, lost luggage, and trip cancellations.
2. Get an international driver’s permit
It is easy to get an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) and it is recognized in over150 countries. While not every country requires an IDP it is better to have one so you can avoid the costly fines of driving without one. The permit can also be used as an identification card as it translates your information to over 10 languages so your IDP allows you to explore stress free.
3. Know your route:
Getting around the city might be troublesome and can take precious time off of your hands. No matter the amount of research trying to figure out which trains to ride and what bus stops you need to memorize, it will still look different and confusing when you touchdown. This is why renting out a car is beneficial in these times. Instead of stressing out in using other forms of transportation, such as buses, taxis or trains, renting out a car is more convenient and comfortable. Renting a car allows you to be more flexible in your trip too. When you have your own vehicle you don’t need to worry about bus and train schedules. Book your car now withFinalRentals!
4. Make copies of your passport
Better safe than sorry, and making a copy of your passport is good for two reasons:
If you lose your passport, at least you have a copy.Some accommodations may require a copy. While most places have a copier, there are some instances, such as Airbnb, where we have had to find a place to make copies to give to our host.
5. Pack a survival kit
Travelers often experience changes in environmental conditions, which can affect a person’s overall health. Since an individual will be exposed to new climates, time zones and food. A good first aid kit can help you self-manage basic health problems and help you avoid buying unknown and potentially harmful medications abroad. Here is a list of what to pack inside your first aid kit:
* Neosporin
* Bandaids
* Ibuprofen
* Imodium
* Antihistamine (Allergy Medications)
* Sleep aid
* Prescription medications
* Hand sanitizer
* Whistle (in the event of a natural disaster it is key to have one to draw attention to rescuers)
6. Change your bills to autopay
Automatic payments are one of the easiest ways to streamline your finances and sleep better at night especially if you are going to be away. Doing so you can focus on your sight-seeing and exploration. If this isn’t possible, then pay the bill early, before you leave.
7. Arrange to have your mail picked up or held at the post office
If you aren’t able to have a friend or family member pick up your mail, you can contact your post office, and they can hold your mail until you return from your travels. This is especially important if you’re traveling for an extended amount of time.
8. Notify your bank of your destinations
In some countries – like most of Europe, which is considered “safe” by your bank – it doesn’t matter, and your bank won’t usually reject your card. However, as soon as you enter a “high risk” country you can forget using the ATM unless you have notified your bank, as you’ll quickly be shut down. So take your time and make that quick 5-minute call to your bank before any travel, and you should have no problems. Many banks also let you notify them online.
9. Always carry a small amount of cash with you
This way, if your ATM card doesn’t work, you can always use your cash and exchange it into the local currency. It’s also a good idea to carry a bit of the local currency with you in case you go to a restaurant or shop that doesn’t accept credit cards.
10. Pack a Travel Adapter
Atravel adapterlike our gadgets is essential nowadays especially if you are a digital nomad traveling one country to another. It is always a good idea to have an adaptor on hand to get some work done or check your social media accounts.
