12 Important Things to Remember Before Every Trip
The excitement of your next adventure is almost too much to handle, so much so that sometimes we forget to check off the most important things to do.
Such as, what visa documents are required and do I need to be vaccinated? So before you pack your bags with every bikini you own remember to prep like a pro so you can enjoy the most out your next getaway!
Here are 12 important things you should do before you travel
1. Check Visa Requirements
This should be the first thing to check off on your list! Don’t wait until the last minute to apply for your visa as it can sometimes take a few weeks to obtain.
Be sure to do the research and make sure you have the latest and correct documents that you will need.
The best way to find out if you need a visa is to look up consulate websites or visit your own government website in regards to visa travel.
Trust me, this is coming from someone who paid WAY TO MUCH for a Cambodian visa and was almost denied entry. Don’t let be you.
2. Check Passport Validity
Now I know this one sounds a little over the top as most passports are valid for 5-10 years at a time.
However, it’s still super important to check when your passport expires as most countries require you to have 3-6 months validity remaining before you can enter.
Double-check and make sure you have plenty of time to renew your passport before making any further travel plans.
3. Get Travel Insurance
Getting travel insurance is always a good idea!
A lot can happen during travel that you might not expect such as flights being canceled, lost luggage, stolen passport, or a medical emergency.
Having the right insurance will not only give you the flexibility you need it will also save your butt from spiraling into a large pool of debt.
I highly recommend using World Nomads these guys are awesome, they have the best coverage & are also great value for money.
4. Check Vaccine Requirements
A quick trip to the doctor is always a good idea before making any travel plans.
It’s best to stock up on any prescriptions you might need and discuss your overall health and well being before you hit the road.
Depending on the country you plan to visit you may need to get certain vaccines. Check out the CDC health guide for some helpful information.
5. Make Copies Of All Your Documents
Be sure to make copies of all your documents.
These include your passport, accommodation bookings, car rentals, booked flights, travel insurance coverage, important phone numbers & any pre-booked tours or activities.
I suggest making multiple copies, some to keep with you and some for your family or friends.
This is super important for 2 reasons, one in case something gets stolen such as your passport you have a second copy, and 2 if your accommodation or flights are not booked or missing again you have tangible documents to standby.
6. Do Your Research
By doing a little research beforehand and knowing the basics of a new environment can really shape your travel experience.
Research top places you want to visit, things you wish to see & do, basic phrases even their transportation system.
Knowing all of these things prior can reduce a lot of stress & anxiety, so you can make the most of being in the moment and enjoy the experience.
My favorite thing to do when researching a new place is to create a Pinterest board with my top places & things to see and do.
This is so much fun, it really gets those travel inspiration juices flowing. I also like to map out how far places are from each other that way you have a general idea of what to plan for the day, and not spend the whole time on the road.
7. Tell your bank Your On Vacation
I sometimes forget to do this, but it is a good idea to let your bank know that you will be on vacation.
Trust me, you don’t want any ATM to eat your card or decline because your bank has flagged it as potential fraud.
It’s super simple, you can easily do this online through your bank or just give them a quick phone call.
8. Get The Best Exchange For Your Money
When it comes to exchanging your money I highly suggest you do not, I repeat DO NOT exchange your money at currency exchange counters at the airport as they will charge you a pricey fee.
Get yourself a good travel rewards credit card one that has no foreign transaction fees when traveling or withdrawing cash from ATM’s.
Plus the best part about a travel rewards card is you can earn points before you travel so you can spend them whilst your on vacation or for future endeavors.
I highly recommend checking out this post by The Blonde Aboard on how to choose the best travel reward cards for beginners.
9. Book Your Accommodation
I’m all for being spontaneous, however after a long day of exploring the last thing I want to do is search for a hotel room for the night.
Booking your accommodation ahead of time makes for a more stress-free situation. Be sure to shop around and find the best hotel deals. You don’t want to end up in a crummy hotel that you paid way too much for. No thanks!
10. Check The Weather
Always check the weather! Yep, that’s right just as simple as it sounds. A lot of the time people just assume what the weather might be like which can sometimes lead to very wet unhappy campers.
It’s super important to do your research, plan ahead, and pack accordingly.
My top packing tip is to always bring some sort of warm clothing, whether that be a few sweaters or a light jacket you never know you might reach for it more often than you think.
Weather patterns can also be very unexpected and can change suddenly, downloading a weather app will also keep you updated with current conditions and forecasts.
Read More
The Ultimate Carry On Packing Guide.
11. Research Common Tourist Scams
It absolutely sucks being scammed by a stranger especially when you’re on vacation. From overpriced cab rides to supposed “free” goods, these scams are happening every day.
Researching common travel scams will help you become more aware of your surroundings and how to better protect yourself & your safety when you do encounter such a situation.
12. Prep Your Luggage
Save yourself a lot of time and stress by preparing your luggage early. You don’t want to arrive at your destination and suddenly realized you forgot to pack that beautiful sundress you just bought.
Creating a packing list will keep you on track so you don’t miss a thing. If your packing just carry on do some research on what you’re allowed to take through security, such as liquids, food & medications.
Remember the TSA guides require you to store your liquids in a clear bag and cannot be more than 100ml.
Looking for the ultimate packing checklist? Sign up today and receive my free go-to carry on checklist.
