The planning phase of your travel can be contributory in a successful holiday. It is one aspect that is frequently neglected by novice, resulting at times to a problematic vacation. These days, travelers enjoy a wide range of options.
Some aspects of your travel can be delegated to a travel agent, if you want to reduce your responsibilities, just like what high-end travelers and jet-setters do. If you are keeping an eye on your expenses, you may still ask your travel agent about your preferences and budget limits. For savvy travelers, the best way is still to be hands-on on a lot of matters pertaining to the trip.
With summer at hand, a huge number of travelers are expected to be flying or cruising to a lot of beautiful destinations for a unique experience. If you are one of them, it is good to be reminded of some savvy tips to make your travel a pleasurable one. You can start with these 5 Ways to Travel Smarter This Summer suggested by KSL –Lifestyle Section.
- Pack smarter: Bring an empty, collapsible bag (like a duffel bag) on your next trip to pack those souvenirs. Remember, if you’re flying, it’s cheaper to pay for an extra bag than a suitcase that’s over the airline’s weight limit. It also means packing light or preferring lighter items and bags, but not to the extent of leaving essentials that you’ll likely buy anyway, if you forget them – toiletries, sensible shoes, maintenance and emergency. Keeping a carry all with part of your essentials and a set of change clothes is also smart, in case your luggage is lost in transit to your destination.
- Feel better faster: “… If you’re going on a long trip where you might not be near a drugstore, make sure you’ve got it fully stocked with items such as bandages, hydrocortisone, Ibuprofen and a topical antibiotic. If you are flying, it would be sensible to know about security guideline concerning packing your medications and liquids to save you time. Mke sure you’ll have enough to last you a few days in your carry all bag, just in case you get stranded in the airport due to flight cancellation or bad weather.
- Put safety first: “No matter where you’re going, the Red Cross’ First Aid app can help you deal with emergency situations … “ Smart travelers can make use of apps such as Travel Safe that can easily and methodically provide you with the emergency contact numbers you need during unforeseen events – police, hospital, fire, etc. – in your host country.
- Eat healthier: “Eating out on your next vacation isn’t always a choice between cheap, unhealthy food and overpriced, healthy cuisine.” Eating is all part of a fabulous holiday, but if you want to enjoy food, save on the side and not get those dreaded calories, eat smart. Avoid fat/butter-laden foods. If you can’t resist it, divide your ordered food and get a portion packed in a to-go box, stick it in your hotel room fridge, heat it in a microwave the following day just before you leave for another fun-packed day.
- Limit air travel hassles: “… knowing who to reach out to when you encounter problems during air travel can help you enjoy more of your well-deserved vacation time.” You can limit problems by being an informed flier/passenger/traveler. This way, you’ll not only be able to prevent possible sticky situations, you’ll also know what to do or what offices to contact (and most probably have those numbers in your emergency list too) in case of problems.
One of the most essential things to buy, even when you don’t prefer (and pray) not to use, is a travel insurance. It is smart to have one because medical emergencies can be very expensive in a foreign country as well as repatriation. It is also a handy protection for your personal luggage and properties. To be able to spend just enough, research and study your options, and opt for what you think is the best for your need.