Travel is the gateway to exploring new destinations, different cultures and spectacular sceneries. It’s the best way to enjoy a holiday, go on an adventure and spend time with friends and family.
As we all know, however, even the best laid travel plans don’t always go smoothly.
While some travel mishaps are out of our control (a delayed connecting flight or cancelled flights for example) there are a number of things you can do to ensure your trip goes as easily as possible, from learning a few phrases in the local language to double-checking you have the right dates booked for your hotel room (true story, this has happened to me!).
Sometimes it’s the simplest of errors that can result in the biggest mistake.
So, as you get ready for your next trip, we’ve put together a a list of the most common travel mistakes to avoid to ensure a happy, fun and stress-free holiday.
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The biggest travel mistakes to avoid
Ensure your trip is stress-free by avoiding these common travel mistakes.
1. Skipping Travel Insurance
Without doubt, skipping travel insurance is one of the top travel mistakes you can make.
Travel insurance may seem like an unnecessary expense, especially if you’re travelling domestically or only going away for a quick city break but without coverage, you are liable for anything that might happen while you are away from home.
Dealing with an unexpected illness or accident while in a foreign country is not only stressful, but it could leave you with a significant financial burden.
How to avoid insurance mistakes: For peace of mind, always invest in a reliable global travel insurance.
Ensure that your coverage includes medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and any high-risk activities you plan to undertake, from skiing to scuba diving.
Some credit cards also provide travel insurance but read the fine print of any policy as it might not cover you for everything.
2. Overpacking
While overpacking won’t ruin a holiday, it can certainly be an unnecessary stress factor. Although it’s tempting to pack outfit options for every day or your holiday, the reality is that you really don’t need to and it’s much better to pack light than be forced to carry around heavy suitcases.
The key to packing successfully is in the planning so make sure you leave enough time to order everything you want to bring with you – and invest in some good packing cubes!
How to avoid overpacking: Consider what type of holiday you are taking; you’ll need very different clothes if you are packing for a beach holiday than if you are going on a road trip.
Pack clothes that can be used more than once and consider mini cosmetics and toiletries to save space. It’s worth packing an additional small bag that you can use to bring souvenirs home. Finally – and this is an easy travel mistake to avoid – don’t forget to check the weather forecasts!
3. Not Researching Your Destination Beforehand
Spontaneity is part of travelling but it does pay to research your travel destination before you leave home, particularly if you are heading overseas to a completely new destination.
The most experienced travelers will know whether or not there are visa requirements before stepping on the plane and will inevitably have a list of sights, attractions and activities that they want to do once they arrive. Plus, brushing up on local customs and laws will keep you out of any potential trouble.
Do your homework: Spend some time researching your destination before you travel.
Understanding the best places to stay, dress codes, operating hours, prince ranges and the busiest times can maximise your experience.
If you’re a first-time traveler to Paris, for example, it’s worth knowing that a midday trip to the Eiffel Tower is the worst time to go! Time your visit for the evening instead.
4. Forgetting to Check Essential Documents
The hustle and bustle of planning a trip can cause you to overlook important details, like checking the expiry dates on your passport or international driver’s license.
These kind of travel blunders can ruin the entire trip – travellers have been turned away from the airport because their passport has been about to expire.
How to avoid document mishaps: Make sure all your travel documents are up-to-date, this includes your passport, driver’s license, and travel insurance. Some countries require passports to be valid for six months upon arrival and others require a visa, so make sure to check in advance.
Make copies of important documents before you leave home so that in the worst-case scenarios, you have them backed up.
5. Mismanaging Money
One of the biggest travel mistakes to avoid concerns money.
Many travellers forget to inform their bank that they’re heading overseas and find that their debit card is blocked because of what their bank believes is “suspicious activity”.
It’s sometimes worth bringing – or exchanging – some local currency with you. While cash is king in many countries some, such as Japan, still prefer cash to card in places.
How to avoid money mismanagement: Inform your bank about your travel dates to prevent any issues with foreign transactions. Consider getting a Revolut card or joining a bank such as Starling that does not charge overseas transaction fees.
Research your destination and see whether or not having local cash will be helpful.
6. Ignoring Local Health and Safety Guidelines
Many travellers underestimate the importance of staying informed about local health and safety regulations. This can include anything from required vaccinations, water and food safety, to local travel advisories and emergency numbers.
How to avoid health and safety oversights: Check official government or reputable travel websites for up-to-date safety and health information.
Carry a basic first aid kit, follow local guidelines, and avoid risky areas or activities. Staying informed can prevent health issues and keep your trip worry-free.
Avoiding common travel mistakes is key to ensuring a smooth, enjoyable trip.
By avoiding overpacking, researching your destination, checking all necessary documents, purchasing travel insurance, and appropriately managing your finances, you can enjoy a wonderful holiday, free from unnecessary stress and complications.
Travelling is a joyous experience, and it’s worth taking the above steps to ensure your trip goes off without a hitch.
Safe travels!
