Travel Smart: Essential Tips for Your Next Trip

Whether you have a holiday coming up or are planning your next trip down the road, it’s not too late (or too early!) to brush up on travel tips. 

This is the second of a two-part series called “Travel Smart.” Last month in part one, I shared some insights that I’ve gained from personal experiences with minor travel mishaps and uncomfortable moments that could have turned into bigger challenges. (Check out my previous blog post for those stories and ways to unlock your best holiday!)

This month in part two, I share simple, proactive steps that will help you enjoy your travels even more.

Travel Smart: Prepare for the Worst… Expect the Best

Thinking about the challenges you could face on your upcoming vacation is not fun. Lost luggage. Misplaced phone. No snacks at the moment you feel your blood sugar drop. But preparing for the worst is time well spent, because you can prevent immediate problems from becoming longer-term headaches. With just a small amount of preparation, you can avoid a lot of grief! 

Pack Your Essentials in One Small Bag

Create a system so that every time you pack for a trip, your travel essentials go into a personal bag, such as a cross-body bag or small backpack. That way, you always have these items handy, even if you get separated from your luggage.

• Electronics: Use one pocket (ideally, one with a zipper) in your bag for your phone and return it to that place each time you use it. Include your charger or portable power bank in the same pocket or one nearby so they’re easily accessible.
• Comfort: Clothing layers (e.g., scarf, cardigan, socks) keep you warm on long flights and in air-conditioned airports.
• Documents: Pack photocopies of your passport or photo ID, credit cards, health plan/travel insurance, and printed copies of travel or tour itineraries as a backup.
• Hygiene: Hand sanitizer and a few basic toiletries (like shampoo, conditioner, and lotion) can go a long way if you get separated from your checked luggage.
• Alternative Storage: Consider storing a small amount of cash in a money belt or a hidden pocket in your clothing.

Secure Backups, Documents, and Communication Lines Before You Depart

Identify the essential files on your phone and create backups for yourself and/or a trusted contact. Establish communication lines in advance with close contacts and with your Airbnb/other hosts.

• Digital Backups: Backup your data to the cloud or a portable external hard drive. If any digital features on your devices are new to you, it’s a good plan to test them before you depart to ensure smooth sailing.
• Choose a Secure Location for your Password Reminders: Write down password reminders/memory jogs for your Google or Apple account passwords. These are important for activating the “Find Your Phone” (Android) or “Find Devices” (iPhone) features if you misplace your phone. Store your reminders in your wallet, purse, a cross-body bag, or a backpack with cut-resistant straps. If you’re staying at a hotel, consider using the safe to store them in.
• Pre-Departure Communication: If you feel comfortable, share your important passwords or password reminders with a close contact, such as your partner. Leave copies of your travel documents with trusted contacts (family members, friends) who you aren’t travelling with in case of emergency.
• Communication During your Trip: Write down the contact info for your Airbnb/other hosts in case you need to reach them. Consider sharing your itinerary or check-in points with your hosts for additional safety while travelling.

Manage Unexpected Health Issues or Discomfort

Enjoying your trip includes preparing what you need to stay comfortable and healthy for long periods in airports or on transportation. Keep these items handy in your personal bag or wear them/take them before you start travelling:

• Personal Medications and First Aid: Pack all prescription medications and include a small kit with bandaids, headache medication, or cold relief, as well as other personal items that you need each day. 
• Motion Sickness Relief: I recommend wearing Sea-Bands or using over-the-counter medications like Gravol.
• Comfort Essentials: If you experience swelling of your legs on long flights, try compression stockings. Consider wearing a well-fitting, well-constructed mask in busy airports or on crowded transportation. Packing a lightweight, inflatable seat cushion provides you with an instant soft surface to sit on in busy airports or other places with limited seating. 
• Stay Hydrated and Manage Your Blood Sugar Levels: Bring a reusable water bottle and carry protein-rich snacks (nuts, granola bars, etc.) to keep your energy stable during long travel days.

Enjoy the Journey

Planning ahead for your next trip doesn’t mean expecting the worst. It means ensuring you have the best possible experience. Thinking proactively about potential challenges like lost luggage or low blood sugar can prevent minor issues from becoming major roadblocks, letting you relax and fully enjoy your trip.

Savour the memories….

Take time to reflect on your holiday. Share your stories and photos with family and friends (with their permission, of course). I enjoy being an armchair traveler looking at friends’ photos and hearing about their adventures. It enriches my life and I usually learn a tip or two.

How about you?

What are your tried-and-tested travel tips? How did you overcome the inevitable obstacles? I would love to hear your stories. Email Lynn lynn@lynnfraser.ca.