Want to be a better traveler? Consider adopting these good habits before the next trip, and take your travel game to the next level.
Never check a bag
Whether you want a roller board, duffle bag, or backpack, never check a bag, even during extended visits. Not only is heavy baggage physically taxing, it's mentally draining, adds time for you to your commute, and results in unnecessary worry and dependency while traveling. Pack light and save the hassle. Unless you work in the fashion industry, there's never a valid reason to check on a bag.
Bypass long security lines
Like carrying extra baggage, neglecting to pre-register for TSA Pre-Check, Global Entry, or perhaps a third-party security program for example Clear will set you back dearly at the airport. For under $20 each year, you can get expedited check-in for each flight you take. This frees up valuable time, enables you to have a destination longer, and avoids the stressful scrum of security lines at each major U.S. airport (and even some international ones). Like a bonus, download the free TSA Mobile Passport to avoid long customs and immigration lines.
Fly disloyally
Here's a secret: airlines don't lose money on loyalty programs, but you certainly do in the long run. Studies have shown you can save much more money by comparing fares and booking using the lowest, even over your preferred airline. This doesn't suggest you should not sign up for frequent flier miles with separate airlines (you totally should). Try not to allow that to loyalty prevent you from booking a more aggressively priced fare elsewhere in favor of sky miles.
Launder your clothes
If you pack light during extended stays, you'll be forced to launder your clothes or suffer the smelly consequences. Good old-fashioned hotel sink-washing may be the easiest and cheapest way to do this in the shortest amount of time, however, you could even outsource the work to some laundromat or hotel laundry service if you like. In either case, get accustomed to washing your clothes while away. This is an inescapable part of life you might as well accept if you wish to minimize your baggage.
Zig while others zag
If your schedule allows, don't go to a place during its peak travel season. Doing this will only test out your patience and pocketbook, since you'll encounter greater numbers of people and better airfare, hotel, and attraction rates. This is also true for excursions. Not only do early birds obtain the worm while visiting popular attractions, they often get better lighting, fewer crowds, and much more room to breathe. This rule will also apply to sunset hour, since many visitors head for the exits in favor of dinner. Either way, enter the habit of smoking of thinking differently.
Don't do everything
Many individuals will concept and try everything while visiting a place. All that do will definitely fail. So rather than over-scheduling, block your entire day off into threes (morning, afternoon, night) and attempt no more than three activities each day. Not only will this help you avoid exhaustion, it will improve your contact with spontaneous activities, that are usually more memorable compared to planned ones.
Put your camera down
If you're vacationing or traveling for an audience, go ahead and, keep capturing at each turn. But if you're traveling on your own and/or people who accompany you, decide beforehand how many photos you intend to take and stick to it. Accept that you won't capture everything, nor should you, and you'll enjoy your travels much more.
Consider traveler reviews
Reviews really are a wonderful method to seek out activities, hotels, and restaurants that fit your particular tastes. That said, there's a limit for their utility. What's a three-star experience to someone else may well be a five-star for you personally. The trick is to browse the reviews as opposed to just exploring the rating. Go ahead and, research your options when choosing places to visit, but understand a review won't necessarily translate to your satisfaction.
Pay for conveniences
If your are hungry, buy that expensive airport sandwich. If you are planning to spend much of your time around the beach, consider paying extra for oceanside. If you do not want to sit through several stops, get an Uber on the shuttle. When purchasing conveniences, spend money on items to reduce stress and lighten your load. Its smart to pay for sometimes (although not every time, if you want to stretch your dollar).
Use airport lounges
You needn't be rich or famous to benefit from the relaxing environments, free food, and private showers and bathrooms of airport lounges. Oftentimes, your credit card might afford you free lounge access. Otherwise, check Loungebuddy or Groupon for discounted day rates. For long-haul flights or extended layovers, you'll thank me.
Keep your head up
If you're more concerned with what is happening on your phone, you ought to have just stayed home. Like avoiding excessive photography, if you wish to upgrade your travel game, you have to take your phone less, not more. So set usage boundaries before you leave. Ask your travel partner to help keep you honest. Then take pleasure in the glory of what is at the front of you.
