Be a Pro Traveler in 2022 with These 61 Helpful Suggestions

The most recent update was made on December 16, 2022.

Most people aren't naturally shrewd travelers. Only experience driving on the road can provide it.

You make a lot of travel errors at first.

Missed buses, irresponsible behavior, cultural ignorance, and countless other small mistakes all contribute to the development of travel savvy. Then, one day, you start blending into new cultures and navigating airports with ease, just like a fish to water

I want to help speed up the process and help you avoid my mistakes (and I often make a lot of them), so I put together this giant list of my best travel tips that cover everything under the sun to help you reach your full travel ninja potential

Over the past twelve years, I've learned these suggestions.

With these travel advice, you'll be able to cut costs, get more rest, venture off the beaten path, interact with locals, and generally travel better.

The top 61 tips in the world are listed below without further ado:

1. Constantly bring a towel
It is both the secret to effective intergalactic hitchhiking and just good sense. When you need it—whether it's at the beach, on a picnic, or just to dry off—you never know when you'll need it. Although many hostels provide towels, it never hurts to carry one because it won't significantly increase the weight of your bag.

2. Purchase a compact bag or suitcase

A small backpack (I prefer something around 35/40 liters) will force you to carry only the essentials and prevent you from overpacking. If you pack lightly but have a lot of extra room in your bag, you'll likely end up saying, "Well, that's just too bad. Humans have a natural tendency to fill space." I guess I can take more," only to later regret it because you'll be carrying around a lot of unnecessary items and carrying around more weight.

For more information on picking the best travel backpack, click here.

Bags are subject to the same guidelines. Avoid taking a large suitcase because they are difficult to transport, especially if you are traveling for an extended period of time (short-term trips less so). I enjoy Level 8 luggage. They are sturdy, fairly roomy, beautifully made, and reasonably priced (luggage can be pretty damn expensive). Additionally, the zipper has a TSA lock built into it. Click here to find out more and purchase one.

3. Travel light.
Wearing the same t-shirt multiple times is acceptable. You won't need as many clothes as you think, so only bring half of what you think you'll need. Make a list of necessities, cut it in half, and only bring that. Additionally, as I mentioned above, since you purchased a small backpack, you won't have much room for additional items.

Click here for packing advice.

But bring extra socks.
Because of laundry gremlins, wear and tear, and hiking, you'll lose a lot, so bringing extra will be useful. I only bring a few extra than I require. A new pair of socks is the best.

5. 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 have a backup. You don't want to be cut off from your money and stuck in a new place. Once, I had a card duplicated and frozen. It was unavailable for the remainder of my travel. I was glad to have an extra because my friend didn't and had to constantly borrow money from me.

Here are some articles on banking and travel hacking that may be of use:

6. Ensure that you use fee-free credit cards.
Give banks none of your hard-earned money. Spend it on your travels and keep it for yourself. Purchase a credit card and debit card with no foreign transaction or ATM fees. The few dollars they take every time will really add up over the course of a long journey.

You can learn how to do that by reading the article found here.

7. Venture out on your own at least once.

You'll pick up a lot of knowledge about yourself and independence. Although it is cliche, it is true. I learned how to take care of myself, interact with others, and handle unfamiliar situations with ease while traveling alone. It's given me confidence in myself, shown me what I'm capable of, and given me permission to be incredibly self-centered and do whatever I want. If you've never done it before, it may take some getting used to, but try it at least once. Put yourself in an awkward situation and surprise yourself When you push yourself, you'll gain useful life skills.

Listed below are some guides to traveling alone:

8. Never be reluctant to use a map.
Not as bad as getting really lost and ending up in the wrong neighborhood is looking like a tourist. Use a map, ask for directions, and dress like a tourist without being embarrassed to do so. You are only one after all. When I travel, I always consult a map. It facilitates your travel to your destination

9. However, don't be afraid to get lost on purpose.
It's a good way to get to know a new city, venture off the beaten path, and avoid tourists to just wander around aimlessly. You never know what kind of hidden gems you'll discover. I enjoy exploring new places and trying to navigate without using Google Maps.

10. Consistently go to the regional tourism bureau
They are informed of all local events. They can direct you to complimentary activities, unique events taking place while you're there, and everything in between. Even transportation and attraction discounts are available. Their objective is to improve your travel experience. It's amazing how many tourists forget to use this when they are on a trip, but you are a seasoned traveler, so you are aware of its importance. One of the world's most underutilized travel suggestions is probably this one. Utilize the tourism bureau. Save money

11. Avoid purchasing a money belt; they are foolish.
Being seen with one essentially shouts, "Look at me, I'm a tourist with money," to thieves who are aware that they exist. Rip me off "The easier it will be to get deals and avoid touts, the more you can blend in and act like a local. Keep a closer eye on your belongings if pickpockets are something that concerns you.

12. Only bring what you need when you leave the house.
Reduce the amount of cash and credit cards you carry with you so you can quickly recover in case something happens. Never bring more than one ATM or credit card with you. My rule for carrying cash is to carry no more than $50 USD.

Always keep a lock with you.
They are useful, especially when you need to lock your belongings up in a dorm. When traveling, keep a small combination lock with you. Use one without keys instead because you're screwed if you lose the keys.

14. Create additional copies of your passport and other crucial documents.
Don't forget to send yourself a copy via email as well. You never know when you might want to leave your original documents at home but need to have some sort of documentation with you. Additionally, having a copy will be helpful for your police report if your passport is stolen.

15. Request information from the hostel staff even if you aren't staying there.
All day, every day, hostel staff deal with budget travelers They are aware of the best places to find affordable dining and attractions. They frequently reside there, so they are very familiar with the area. Ask them a variety of questions. Ask for assistance even if you aren't staying there by simply walking in. Usually, they'll give it

16. Acquire a basic command of the language of your destination.
It will be well received by the populace and facilitate interactions with them. You don't have to be fluent in the language, but learning a few words like "Hello," "Goodbye," and "Thank you" will help. ", "Where are the restrooms?" will go a long way toward making you popular with the residents. They'll appreciate your effort.

Here are some pointers for learning a language.

17. Study a historical tome

If you don't know anything about a place's past, you can't understand it in the present. Learn more about the places you are visiting. You'll gain a deeper understanding of the location you've been wanting to visit for so long.

Check out my list of suggested readings for additional recommendations.

Here are some recent posts that highlight some of my favorite reads as well:

Check out my free monthly book club for recommendations on 3-5 books that will be delivered right to your inbox each month!

18. Don't be embarrassed to enter a McDonald's or Starbucks
There are times when familiarity can be comforting, and both locations have free wifi and accessible public restrooms. (Only refrain from consuming McDonald's food. That shit is disgusting and bad for you. You can bring it home. )

19. Avoid direct flights
When purchasing airline tickets, it may be less expensive to fly into airports near your final destination and then take a train or bus to your destination. Make sure to compare prices for your flight and keep in mind that direct flights aren't always the best deals. My preferred flight search tools are:

• Skyscanner is my go-to resource for locating inexpensive flights. It looks up many different airlines, including many of the discount airlines that bigger websites overlook.
• One of the best flight search engines available, Google Flights allows you to enter your departure airport and view flights around the globe on a map to determine the locations of the cheapest destinations.

Here are some more suggestions for locating inexpensive flights:

20. When in security lines, always lag behind businessmen
They travel light and move quickly because they are frequently in a hurry. They are practiced. Line up as far behind them as you can You'll cut through the line quickly.

21. Never leave families behind
They take ages. They are not at fault All of their possessions are a result of the kids. Avoid standing in lines where there are a lot of children. It will take some time.

Asking for an upgrade at the hotel when you check in is not something to be afraid of.

When it comes to deciding which upgrades to give out at check-in, they have a lot of flexibility. Never be afraid to ask Often, if the hotel isn't full, they can accommodate you. Just be very polite.

23. Free Wi-Fi is available in most cafés, Starbucks, and libraries.
Consider using one of these locations if you are staying somewhere that charges for Internet access. Free connections are available.

24. The ideal time to visit historical sites is during lunch.
Be a skeptic Less people will be in your way as the majority of tourists, large tour buses, and groups depart for lunch. Always go to an attraction very early, very late, or when people are eating. Even the most well-known locations will be all to yourself.

25. Avoid eating in or close to a touristy area or attraction.

I usually have to walk five blocks in either direction to find a restaurant. The price will go up as you get closer to the tourist attractions, and the food (and service) will be worse. Use online directories like Yelp, Google Maps, or Open Rice to locate some delectable and well-known restaurants nearby.

Never eat anywhere where the menu is in more than six languages as well. That implies that the restaurant only serves tourists.

26. You shouldn't eat out every night like the locals do.
Visit a grocery store Observing the types of food that locals purchase can reveal a lot about their dietary habits. Additionally, you will save a ton of money. You won't be sorry. Prepare your own food to save money and surprise yourself.

27. Indulge in expensive lunchtime dining
The same food is served for lunch at most expensive restaurants, but it is half the price of dinner. When you are traveling, that is the ideal time to eat out.

Carry a flashlight.
It will improve your night vision, help you avoid tripping, and enable you to tell ghost stories. One who fears the dark

Carry a simple first aid kit.
Accidents do occur, so be ready. For minor cuts and scrapes, I use bandages, antibacterial cream, and ointments. You can't always get it when you travel because you never know when you'll need it.

Here are some suggestions for putting together a business first aid kit!

30. To get the best deal, book flights two to three months in advance.
Avoid going crazy trying to find the cheapest possible fare. You'll feel a lot of stress if you try to save $10 for five hours. Here are some articles on how to reduce your airline ticket costs:

• How to Book a Cheap Flight Online in 5 Easy Steps
• How to Continually Find Cheap Flights

31. Make use of hostels

They are affordable, plan events, introduce you to lots of people, and are just a ton of fun. Additionally, pubs in hostels offer affordable beer. Here are some of my favorite articles on how to choose a hostel:

32. To meet locals, use Meetup, the sharing economy, and hospitality websites.
These websites connect you with locals in the locations you visit, giving you an insider's view of your destination. The sharing economy has transformed how people travel, enabling you to connect with locals, veer away from the tourist trail, and save a ton of cash. It's a triple win, and it uses resources I frequently use when I travel. Here's a guide on how to travel with the sharing economy (including websites to use).

Here are a few of my preferred websites in the sharing economy and travel:

• Couchsurfing - This website lets you stay for free in other people's spare rooms or couches. It's an excellent way to meet locals and save money while learning much more about a city than you would learn from a hostel or hotel.
• Another excellent option for lodging is Airbnb, which connects you with homeowners who are willing to rent out their houses or apartments to you.
• EatWith - Although there is a fee (everyone decides on their own price), this is a great way to try something new, learn from a local, and meet new people.
• Using the ridesharing website BlaBlaCar, you can share rides with vetted local drivers in exchange for gas payments. You simply ask for a seat, they grant it, and you leave.
• Gumtree is a fantastic resource for travelers and resembles Craiglist. You can look for homestays, rideshares, jobs, used equipment, and much more.

Be welcoming to strangers.
Not all people bite. Greetings to motorists on the road Make acquaintances with strangers Keep in mind that they are just like you. They also have hopes and dreams and want to live a happy, full life. You're never sure You might meet some friends for life.

34. But remain vigilant.
Keep a healthy level of suspicion because some people do bite. You don't want to become a victim of travel fraud or put yourself in awkward situations. Be alert but wary.

Here is a list of travel frauds to stay away from.

Try a new food.

No need to ask what it is Simply put it in your mouth and decide whether you like it. You might miss out on some unique and delicious local cuisine if you become defensive. Here are some articles that explain how to eat well-prepared food on a budget all over the world:

Avoid using taxis.
They always blow the budget. Take public transportation whenever possible instead of a taxi.

37. Fill up an empty metal water bottle at your gate after passing through airport security.
When possible, sip water straight from the faucet to save money and protect the environment. Get a water bottle with a filter if you're going somewhere where the water isn't safe to drink. Lifestraw and Grayl are my two favorites.

38. Go on unpaid walking tours
In addition to being free, these tours will provide you with a thorough introduction and history of the city you are visiting. When I travel, I absolutely adore going on walking tours. You kill time, get to ask the guide a ton of questions, and discover a ton about your current location. Travel and go on a walking tour Here are some lists of my top picks for free walking tour providers worldwide:

39. Obtain city visitor cards
A city pass will save you money on admission if you plan to visit numerous museums and other attractions in a short amount of time (plus, most offer free public transportation as well). )

40. Snap pictures of your clothing and luggage
This will facilitate easier identification of your bag in the event of its loss and expedite the process of receiving reimbursement from your travel insurance.

41. Keep emergency cash on you
Since emergencies do occur Similar to the time I was in Romania and couldn't find an ATM because I needed cash to take the bus to the hostel. Normally, I try to keep about $200 USD in cash on hand in case something unexpected occurs.

Buy quality footwear.
Walking is a major part of traveling. Do not pound your feet. They'll take you to incredible places if you love them as much as they love you.

43. Obtain a vaccine.
Getting sick while traveling is not fun, and many nations require vaccinations before you can enter, so regardless of your feelings on the matter, you might end up having to get one.

Here is a guide on how to stay healthy while traveling.

44. Practice haggling
A fun and playful way to avoid paying the foreigner's price is to haggle. You can use this skill to negotiate in all aspects of your life, not just at the market.

Use miles and points for free travel, 45.

When you don't have to pay for something, you can accomplish much more in the world. Develop the skill of travel hacking and accumulate points and miles through regular spending to obtain free transportation, including lodging, train tickets, and other forms of transportation. It's what seasoned travelers do to reduce their travel expenses, and you should follow their example. Here is how I accumulate a million frequent flier miles annually:

46. Grab your jacket
The nights grow chilly

Eat food from the street
You won't experience culture if you don't eat the street food. Be not frightened. Look for places where kids are eating if you're feeling uneasy. It is safe for you if it is safe for them.

Get travel insurance, 48.
The most crucial purchase you can make that you never intend to use is travel insurance. You don't want to lose thousands of dollars in debt if something goes wrong. If you are robbed, your flights are canceled, you become ill or injured, or you must return home, it will still be there. One of the best investments you can make for a trip is this comprehensive guide, which costs just a few dollars per day. You may believe yourself to be superhuman, but so did my friend who broke her arm and had to pay thousands of dollars out of pocket because she lacked insurance. When I needed to replace my camera and when I ruptured my eardrum while scuba diving, insurance was there. Get it These hints will help you locate the best travel insurance.

My preferred businesses are:

• Travelers in need of basic coverage can choose SafetyWing as a cost-effective option. They are reasonable, offer excellent customer service, and facilitate the filing of claims. If money is tight, choose SafetyWing.
• Travelers who want additional protection for their trip can choose from a variety of comprehensive plans from World Nomads.
• The best travel insurance for seniors is Insure My Trip.

49. Show patience
In the end, things will turn out okay. There is no rush. You'll arrive at your destination on schedule. Travel is about the experience, not the final destination.

50. Show respect
Keep your cool when something doesn't go your way because the locals are generally eager to assist you but there may be a language barrier. If you don't, you'll come off as just another tacky tourist.

Avoid overplanning your trip (51).
Allow your days to develop naturally. Plan two or three things and let the day take care of the rest. One of the best ways to travel is to just let the day take you because it's less stressful. I'll give you some tips on how to travel without overplanning!

52. Relax
Be patient, see

Be thrifty, but not cheap.
Don't be a penniless pound-fool. Find discounts and save money, but don't sacrifice experiences or walk 10 miles to save a few dollars. Money is time. Use both of them wisely.

54. Put earplugs in.
There are snorers everywhere, and you must sleep.

Always keep an extra USB charger on hand.
Battery death Your positive attitude shouldn't

Take pictures of and with people 56.

A lot of pictures When you look back on those nights in the future, you'll want to remember the people who made them memorable.

57. Purchase 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. Additionally, you'll be able to pay with a credit card, which will give you more protection and travel rewards!

58. Register for flight discounts
Your flight(s) will probably be your biggest expense when traveling. Join websites offering flight deals like Scott's Cheap Flights, The Flight Deal, and Secret Flying to save money. You'll save time and money with epic flight deals delivered right to your inbox. Be sure to subscribe to airline newsletters as well, as that is where they will first announce their sales.

59. Purchase your attraction tickets in advance.
There are many popular attractions where you can make reservations and skip the line. Always check online to see if there are alternatives. By doing this, you can skip the lengthy lines and enter right away. I've witnessed long lines for the Paris Catacombs, Louvre, Churchill War Rooms in London, as well as other historical fortifications, temples, churches, and more Pre-book the day before to avoid the line and maximize your time.

61. Do not use TripAdvisor
When looking for business hours or an address, TripAdvisor is fine, but when it comes to reviews, I completely disregard it. Reviews are frequently biased because people almost never leave positive reviews when good things happen but always leave negative reviews when bad things do. Additionally, it's very simple to fabricate fake reviews that make a location appear better than it actually is. Many hotels and restaurants work with companies to boost their online reviews artificially. Additionally, TripAdvisor has a history of removing excessively critical reviews as well as reviews that discuss sexual assault. Take care when using TripAdvisor. Better yet, avoid using it altogether.

Lastly, use sunscreen.
Because, to quote the song "Everybody's Free (To Wear Sunscreen)" by Baz Luhrmann:

Sunscreen would be my one piece of advice for the future if I could only give you one. Scientists have established that sunscreen has long-term advantages. While the rest of my advice has no more solid foundation,

Compared to my own erratic experience

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You have it there. My best travel advice If you adhere to them, you'll quickly become the best traveler you can be. Add any information you believe I missed in the comments section below.

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