Essential Travel Tips for Everyone

Wherever you travel, these are some basic tips to help your travels flow smoothly.

Tip #1 - Take a photo of your passport & ID.

Make sure to take a photo of the main picture page AND the last page of your passport. Save it on your phone and email it to yourself, just in case it’s lost or stolen. Even a printed copy can be extremely helpful!

Tip #2 - Pack a change of clothes and essentials in your carry-on.

If your luggage gets delayed, you’ll be glad you did. And for those of us who travel with children, a change can help everyone feel a little more fresh after a few spills.

Tip #3 - Arrive earlier than you think you need to.

Whether it’s the airport, a tour, or a train—being early reduces stress and gives you options if anything goes wrong.

Tip #4 - Bring a power bank. (In your Carry-on!)

Flights get delayed. Trains stop. Having a charged phone is peace of mind. Also, make sure to pack this in your carry-on - don't check it.

Tip #5 - Download offline maps.

Google Maps lets you download areas so you can navigate without Wi-Fi or data. We have used this so many times on our travels domestically and internationally. You never know when service will get spotty as you are trying to find that awesome view or cafe you heard of from a friend or instagram.

Tip #6 - Double-check time zones and local holidays.

Nothing throws off a trip like showing up an hour late—or on a day everything is closed. I can help with this as I help you plan and book your travels.

Tip #7 - Notify your bank of travel plans.

Avoid card freezes from “suspicious” charges abroad - and even just one state over! We have had our card frozen when we forgot we were crossing the border of just one more state on our van travels. We stopped to fill up with gas then tried to use card later that day to find it frozen. And, of course, this happened on a weekend when the bank was closed. So, I guess, tip #7b is to have some emergency cash on hand for those one-off times.

Tip #8 - Learn a few local phrases.

People appreciate when we try to communicate in a local language. Even just “hello,” “thank you,” and “where is the bathroom?” goes a long way.

Tip #9 - Be flexible, but have a plan.

Structure helps, but the best stories and least amount of stress come from having an open mind.

Tip #10 - Use a travel advisor to organize and track all your confirmations.

Instead of juggling screenshots and emails, a good advisor keeps it all in one place—so you can focus on the fun, not the logistics.

Ready to get out there?

These travel tips are simple, but they can make a big difference in how smooth and enjoyable your trip is. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just starting to explore the world, a little preparation goes a long way.

And if you'd rather not go it alone, that’s where I come in. As a travel advisor, I take care of the research, booking, confirmations, and backup plans—so all you have to do is show up and enjoy.

Let me know when you're ready—I’d love to help you plan something unforgettable.