Summer Travel Guide

Everyone spends the summer traveling, but no one talks about how difficult it is to adapt to new environments and pack for new adventures. Though this is a very generic travel guide, you can easily apply each of these tips to every tip you take easy and fun!

RESEARCH AND PLAN

Before traveling, conduct a thorough research about your destination and where you’re traveling. Learn more about the local cultures, traditions, automatic, and any specific rules, laws, or regulations you have to be aware of. Plan a thorough itinerary that includes accommodations, transportation, attractions you want to visit, and other things you plan to do, eat, or shop for while you’re there! Remember to check all travel advisories before you head wherever you are going! Especially with the height of the COVID-19 pandemic just ending, it’s still important to stay up to date on all regulations and to be sure to follow all safety guidelines regarding health or vaccinations. Be sure to also check visa requirements to be sure you will have access to the country, as well as passport validity, to make sure your passport is not expired and doesn’t need to be renewed. 

PACK WISELY

Be smart with your packing. No matter how tempting overpacking is, it’s smart to avoid doing that. Overpacking will lead to too much luggage, overly heavy suitcases, and not being able to bring back any souvenirs or other travel mementos without buying a new suitcase! Pack the essentials, such as appropriate clothing for the climate and activities you plan to participate in while you’re traveling. Also, keep in mind traditional customs and dress policies when you travel. If traveling to a country where modesty is heavily suggested or regulated, then be sure to pack modest forms of clothing. Be also sure to pack any necessary medications and vitamins you take on a daily basis. Pack travel adapters for different outlets and also any toiletries you need, as well. When traveling through different airports, also keep in mind to securely pack your things. This is where packing light comes in handy. Without having too much luggage to lug around, it’ll be easier to keep watch of your things and be sure nothing gets stolen. Keep your valuables close to you and avoid leaving or displaying expensive things out for the entire airport to see. Try to use digital forms of payment versus physical cards and cash. If carrying cash, just try to keep small amounts of local currency for convenience as well as security. 

BE PREPARED

Be prepared and keep all copies of important documents. Make photocopies or take digital scans of your passport, visas that you need to travel with, travel insurance cards, vaccine cards, and other important documents that you need to show at security checkpoints. Be sure to also keep your backup and digital copies separate from your originals in case of separation or deletion. Be sure to also check if you will have access to your communication tools while traveling. Check for international roaming options so you’ll always be able to stay connected and search up any directions you might need to. You can always even consider purchasing a local SIM card to ensure you’ll always have total access regardless of where you travel. Be familiar with local emergency contact numbers as well as the numbers of the hotels you’re staying at. 

RESPECT TRADITION

Like mentioned previously, be sure to respect local customs, traditions, etiquette, and forms of dress. Research and observe the local etiquettes in regards to greetings, clothing, behavior in religious or culturally significant sites, and in other cultural norms. This will be sure to foster positive and respectful interactions and avoid intentionally or unintentionally offending locals. Also, be aware of all your surroundings at all times. You don’t know all the safe places everywhere, so be aware of all surroundings, particularly in unfamiliar areas. Try to avoid being in poorly lit or isolated areas, especially at night. Trust your gut instincts and take all necessary precautions to be safe. Try to also learn some basic phrases in the local language. Learn how to say simple things like please, thank you, and other greetings. Simple greetings like this will go a long way in showing respect and building rapport with locals!