For most of us, it’s been a while since we’ve packed our bags and prepared to travel. As the world begins to open its arms and welcome us in, these top travel tips will teach you how to be a savvy traveler and help refresh your mind on both the basic and NEW travel protocols.
Top 10 Tips for the Savvy Traveler
By planning ahead and using the services of a Travel Advisor, your adventure will be a smooth, stress-free, and magical travel experience. Following these top travel tips can make all the difference in your long-awaited vacation.
1. Use a Travel Agent
Enlisting the services of a Professional Travel Advisor is the #1 thing you can do to be a savvy traveler! A skilled Travel Advisor will work with you to customize a vacation experience that meets your desires and needs. We are with you from beginning to end and if an issue does come up — we have your back. With all the changing protocols, schedule changes and staffing issues with tour companies, it’s never been a better time to take advantage of our services. Your travel agent will advise you about all the important travel tips in our top 10 list!
2. Double Check Your Passport
I CANNOT STRESS THIS ENOUGH! Most people haven’t been traveling for a year or more. It’s almost as if time was suspended. Over the past year, I’ve talked to many clients who believed their passport was still valid when it was actually expired. Something you might not know: your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your return travel date. Passport renewal times are lengthy so make sure you have plenty of time to receive your new passport before your travel plans. Please note that the name on your air ticket MUST BE AN EXACT MATCH TO THE NAME ON YOUR PASSPORT. Provide a copy of your passport photo page to your Travel Professional for verification.
3. Print a Copy of Your Passport
When traveling to an international destination, it’s a good idea to make a few copies of the photo page of your passport. Leave one copy at home with a family member or your Travel Advisor. Take the other copy with you and keep it in a separate place from your actual passport. If your passport is lost or stolen and you need to replace it, the process will be much smoother with an actual copy of the original.
4. Review COVID-19 Protocols
An important aspect of our current travel environment is the ever-changing COVID-19 protocols. Every country, including your home country, has a travel protocol in place for visitors and travelers returning home. Some require you to complete online documents that result in approved travel authorizations, which must be presented at the airport to board your flight. Each country has COVID-19 testing requirements as well. Keep in mind that these protocols and requirements are fluid and change constantly.
5. Print Travel Documents
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It may seem old fashioned in our electronic age to actually print your travel documents but it’s highly recommended. I never rely on electronic travel documents as there can be issues with Wi-Fi and cell phone service in many destinations. Having a hard copy of required documents will alleviate any connection issues.
6. Register with the Consulate
When traveling outside the borders of your own country it’s always a good idea to register your travel plans with your consulate. It’s a simple process and can be done online. If an emergency comes up, they will know you’re in the area and will facilitate the proper protocols to help you.
7. Take a Break from Social Media
Even if you’re not savvy with social media and post on a regular basis, it’s tempting to post your fabulous vacation pictures and selfies in real time. Sometimes this is an advertisement that you’re away, allowing an unsavory element to be aware that your home and property are unprotected. Take all your amazing photos and post them AFTER you return home.
8. Stop Your Mail
If you plan to be away for a week or more, you can ask your local postal service to stop delivery of your mail while you’re gone. This will keep the mail from piling up (also advertising that you’re not at home) and keep it protected from the elements.
9. Review Baggage Requirements
Every time I travel to the airport, I see frustrated travelers pulling items from their checked bags or trying to consolidate carry-on items into overstuffed or oversized luggage. Familiarize yourself with the weight and size limits for checked and carry-on bags prior to arriving at the airport. Each airline has its own policy and procedures for luggage.
10. Pack Essentials in Your Carry-on Bag
This seems like it should be “Travel 101”, but many people still don’t follow this practical advice. Keep all medications with you because you may not be able to replace them if your checked luggage it lost or delayed. Make sure to have a few toiletries (following TSA regulations) and a change of clothes and/or bathing suit if you are headed to the beach. This is especially helpful if you flight is cancelled, and you must spend the night in or near the airport.
Take the journey with Destiny Travel & Group Tours and you’ll never look back! Book a free consultation with the Destiny Travel & Group Tours Team today.
