General Travel Tips
Book Midweek
Depending on where you book, some airlines slash prices for their midweek departures. If you are flexible with your departure date, you can possibly get away with a better deal by flying mid-week. This may not work in all situations but it never hurts to look.
Better Safe Than Sorry
Travel Insurance seems like another added expense but when travelling you can’t predict what will happen to you. Hopefully you will never need to use it but it is great to know that you have it if you ever need it. If travelling with someone whom may have specific medical needs it is also a good idea to know where the best care is available.
Call your Credit Company
There is nothing worse than having your financial resources cut because your credit card company finds your foreign purchases ‘suspicious.’ Let them know in advance of your departure to avoid this mess from happening.
Keep Your Documents & Money Safe
A money belt and passport pouch can save your vacation! They’re great ways to keep important documents on you. They are light & inexpensive and a great idea when travelling. It is also a great idea to have copies of your travel documents. Leave one with a family member and one with yourself, some copy and email to themselves so they will always have them available through an email account, should the unfortunate event of a lost/stolen travel document happens. Always use your safe when at the hotel.
Need to Be Connected?
If bringing your cell, get a prepaid plan for the country you’re visiting. Roaming rates can be very high., be sure to turn data roaming off on your device.
Pack Light
You’ll want to be prepared for everything during your trip. Hauling of those bags can get a bit taxing though. Try to limit yourself to one pack. Be sensible about what you’ll bring. Take plenty of items that you can mix and match. Leave any unnecessary accessories at home. When you’re traveling, less is more. Airlines can charge high fees for overweight luggage. Weigh your luggage before you leave and pack one with you. Don’t get caught, travel scales are small, light, and inexpensive and can save you a bundle.
Know the Voltage of Your Electronics
Adapter or no adapter, it wouldn’t matter if your adapter does not convert your device to the proper voltage of that country. You can see the voltage ratings on the safety labels.
Keep More of Your Cash
When possible, avoid changing money at the airport. You get a much better rate at a bank before you leave, or your hotels front desk or onsite ATM.
Avoid Coffee In-Flight
Coffee is great when we need to jump start our mornings. However, it can be a big buzz kill if you’re trying to sleep through your flight. It also dehydrates you. In an airplane cabin that already boasts desert-worthy humidity, coffee would not be a wise choice of beverage.
Think about Supporting the Locals
Souvenirs make great mementos. Visit local markets to get your hands on the real deal. Not only will it be cheaper, but it’s doing the community some good! The Palladium supports local products for sale in their on site shops.