Pro or Newbie, Be a Smart Traveler: Don't Make These Mistakes

Traveling offers a number of interesting experiences, a lifetime's worth of memories, and even some unforgettable mishaps. However, you don't necessarily have to be a full-time traveler/backpacker to be more careful with your travel details and activities. Yet there are still instances when you hear a friend, a colleague, or even a stranger rant about some of their misfortunes. Learn from them and try to stay away from repeating their mistakes or better take precautions before your next trip. To help you with this, here are some tips to remember.

There are a lot of promos offered online every now and then. Different airline companies attract customers by giving limited discounted flight promos.

Getting that piso (Php 1.00) fare is definitely a must-catch opportunity, so you do your best to click as fast as you can and save a slot. Got it!

But, be careful. Clicking too quickly because of the excitement might bring you more tears than fun. There could be a possibility for missed schedule, dates, unnecessary payments, or even a misspelled name. The two last possibilities are the ones that could really give you a headache or high blood pressure.

Remember to double-check everything (even if you think you are running out of time). Before you finalize your booking, check the information you've provided, the flight schedule, and the payment and additional fees.

Also, even with a cheap rate, you must be aware of the different fees or taxes. This is important especially if you are traveling abroad. So, check, plan, and still get your money's worth for a wonderful journey.

Connecting flights, layovers, and a lot of waiting time at the airport. Do you truly understand your travel schedule or itinerary?

Mixed up itineraries or missed flights can happen when some are too confident with their flight that they just stick with what's in their mind. Then viola! 0200 flight schedule they overlooked as a 2:00 PM flight. Missed plane. Trouble booking and extra expense ahead.

Remember the flight schedule is always in military time (i.e.0200 is 2 AM and 1400 is 2 PM).

Aside from this, don't mix up your departure and arrival time. This includes preparing for time differences as well. You don't want to come a day later than expected.

There are helpful applications that you can download on your smartphones or even websites that let you check on your trip's schedule. Take that extra precaution and don't let excitement or even your lazy personality bring you an unbearable headache on your next vacation.

Here, you must do your research. Be a vigilant traveler and keep your important documents updated and valid.

Even if you argue that your passport would expire later this year, remember that some countries do not allow you to travel three to six months before your passport's expiration date.

Always keep in mind that you must carry a valid passport and other important documents. Check your destination's rules to save yourself from some drama. Also, once you have the time, renew your passport regularly.

Put your valuables in your carry on. Always.

This means money, medicine, passport, ID, gadgets, and other personal essentials should be kept close. If you follow this reminder, you will face less hassle in finding your things and lower the chances of having stolen, damaged, or even offloaded valuables. In the last one, you might only learn about your luggage being offloaded once you reach your destination. So, better be ready.

Also, do not leave your valuables unattended. Even if you are just at the airport, be cautious enough to keep your things with you at all times. If you are traveling with a friend, ask him/her to look after your things if you have to go somewhere else.

Seasons around the world vary, so be prepared to face those weather changes when you travel. Know about the country or city you are visiting. Pack the necessary clothing. You don't have to be a fashion trendsetter who smells like a barbecue in a tropical country nor be a frozen banana with shorts in July when you visit Australia.

If you think that it's easier to just buy clothes when you arrive, think again. That will be time-consuming and possibly stressful. Keep your shopping spree later in your trip. And who wants to see a freezing stick in the airport when it's 20 degrees below zero.

Dress appropriately.

It is convenient to use credit cards and simply swipe through your purchases. However, having cash on hand is still the best, especially when you need to purchase small items or for transportation. It is not easy to get off a local habal-habal, pedicab, or even tricycle with only your credit card. This also applies to visiting countries outside of the Philippines. You have to be ready with cash so you don't experience the hassle of unplanned struggles from your commute to your next meal.

Cash can also save you in case of an emergency.

Speaking of spending during your trip, if you must use a debit or credit card inform your bank in advance.

Some banks can cancel your card due to unusual activity. Yes, it is also possible to fix this concern once you call to your bank. But it will still take a while, and just save yourself from this trouble and do that before you head to another country. Be smart and courteous enough to inform them about your international trip and how you plan to use your card.