10 Travel Expert Tips For Planning the Ultimate Trip
Planning a trip can be fun but it can also be challenging. How can you put together the ultimate getaway that’s affordable and enjoyable for you and everyone who comes along? Experience and knowledge are key which is why we’ve provided you with these insider tips from those who’ve already been there and done that.
Use these helpful insider tips for planning and travel, including scoring the best flights, hotels, rental cars and cruises for the best experience possible.
Be Flexible
The more flexible you can be with your travel dates the better. When booking airfare, the day of the week can make a significant difference, with the best prices usually found for mid-week flights, flying out and returning on a Tuesday or Wednesday.
Opt for the Off-Season
Traveling in the off-season means fewer tourists to bump elbows with and lower rates on everything from airfare to accommodation. Do some research beforehand to understand the trade-offs such as weather conditions. You might want to plan to go just before or after the peak season.
Book Ahead
Booking flights at the last minutes typically comes with major sticker shock. The most expensive airfare is within two weeks of flying, but you’re usually much better off booking well ahead of that, especially when flying internationally. Aim for at least seven weeks in advance for domestic and four months ahead for international flights.
Check to See if Your Credit Card Offers Travel Insurance
You’ve heard those nightmare stories of travelers becoming ill or injured overseas resulting in hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical bills so you know travel insurance is a must. But before purchasing a separate policy, check with your credit card companies to find out if they offer this benefit first.
Get a More Travel-Friendly Bank Account
If you don’t already have one, open a bank account that will give you unlimited ATM withdrawals when traveling internationally and that won’t charge you any transaction fees. Even better is a bank that will refund ATM fees charged by other banks no matter where you are.
Plan a Trip Around a Last-Minute Deal
If you can swing it and want to score deep savings while enjoying some spontaneity, consider planning a trip around a last-minute deal. It can be a great way to discover a new destination you haven’t even thought about while being more budget-friendly too.
Check Your Passport
Many countries will deny you entry if your passport expires in less than six months, as they don’t want you to end up stuck there on an expired passport. You also need to have a blank page available for the passport stamp of each country you’ll visit. Double check yours when you start planning and renew it if necessary.
Carry Passport Copies
Even if your passport is valid, if it gets lost or stolen you won’t be able to board that international flight. It will be much easier to replace if you have a copy. Carry at least two copies, placing one in your checked luggage and another in your carry-on.
Beat Jet Lag by Sleeping on Overnight Flights
Jet lag can ruin the first few days or more of a trip. Avoid wasting that precious time by sleeping on the plane, using ear plugs and an eye mask to block out light and sound. Avoid alcohol and opt for a relaxing herbal tea instead, like chamomile.
Prepare for the Long-Haul
Prepare for boredom or anxiety that’s common with long-haul flights by bringing some of your favorite items from home. Perhaps load up your iPad with comedy shows and songs that will help you relax in addition to bringing that good book you’ve been wanting to finish.
We hope that you found the tips on this page helpful and can put them to use on your next vacation. Whether you plan to fly, drive, or cruise, become an expert trip planner by using our travel comparison tool for all your transportation and hotel needs. Please visit us again and sign up for our newsletter to keep getting the best deals and travel tips.
