Making mistakes is all part and parcel of life. This is true too of travel mistakes, we’ve all made them and learned from them the hard way. When it comes to making mistakes on a trip that you have been looking forward to for a long time it can end up leaving you dissatisfied with your holiday. Nobody wants to return home with a bad impression of a city or with added stress due to costly mistakes. Here are five of the most common travel mistakes and how you can easily avoid them.
1. Unrecognizable suitcase
Standing by the end of the luggage carousel it is easy to notice the steady flow for identical black suitcases. The majority of people opt for a black suitcase thinking that it is classic a sleek, however, it can be difficult to distinguish yours from that of a fellow traveller. Instead opt for a brighter colour that is easy to spot from a distance such as a Lancel Paris case.
2. Not having a plan
You may be a spontaneous traveller but not having a plan in place before you go can lead to disappointment when you arrive at your destination. There is no need for a strict itinerary but do check out museum tickets or entrance to cultural sights in advance. While pre-booking is necessary from some, in other cases it will allow you skip long queues of waiting tourists. Similarly popular restaurant usually requires reservations so if you have a specific eatery in mind, it is best to book.
A good rule of thumb when planning a trip is to hit a place of historical interest, a modern or hipper spot, a culinary treat and something adventurous to get you out of comfort zone. If you cover all these bases, you will be satisfied to have gotten a taste of everything a new place has to offer.
In saying this, don’t be over ambitious. Leave some time to wander and explore areas that you stumble across. You often find the hidden gems when you go off the beaten track.
3. Overpacking
How often do you return home from a trip with half a suitcase of unworn and unused items? The best way to avoid this is to be prepared before you travel. Planning is essential to avoid overpacking. Before you leave, have a rough idea of the plan and check the weather to make sure you will be weather appropriate. Lay out your clothes and plan outfits that can be easily interchanged.
4. Encountering money problems
Before you travel it is important to set a budget for what you want to spend while on vacation. No holiday is worth being in debt for when you return home.
Another common mistake is running into problems when using you credit or debit cards abroad. Communicate with your bank in advance of travelling, this will avoid any blocks being put on your accounts due to suspicious activity.
Keep in mind exchange rates and foreign charges when paying by card. Check them with your bank before you go to avoid any expensive surprises when you get home.
5. Eating at the hotel
Many holiday goers rely on their hotel for meals when they are abroad. But hotel restaurants, bars and room service can be far more expensive that what you will find in the neighbourhood nearby.
The culinary experience is often the most enjoyable aspect of a city. Eating local dishes, surrounded by local people and enjoying the atmosphere of the restaurant and the city.
Finally
As we said earlier, these are common mistakes and truthfully, we’ve all made a least one. They can all be easily avoided with a little planning and preparation. It is will result in a more enjoyable vacation, leaving it memorable for all the right reasons.
