Do you like to travel? Are you planning a vacation? The following suggestions will help you prepare to have a more enjoyable and safe trip and overcome unwelcome surprises.
Before the trip:
1. Get a little acquainted with the history, customs, and traditions of the land you are visiting. This will make your traveling more enjoyable. You will find the sights, the people, and the forms of entertainment more enjoyable. You will also avoid many problems by being aware of the political situation of the country. Certain literature may be illegal to bring into some places and some cities may have a curfew at night.
2. Vaccination certificates may be required for some countries. Even if some vaccinations are not compulsory your travel agent may recommend that you get vaccinated in any case. Get vaccinated at least three weeks before the trip, this way if there are any side effects they won’t spoil your vacation. Ask your doctor for advice.
3. Arrange for someone to watch over things at home, pick up the mail, etc.
4. Check your passport to make sure it is up-to-date.
5. Take out necessary travel insurance (health, luggage)
Packing:
1. The rule for clothing is: Be casual, be comfortable, travel light.
2. Clothing that you can mix and match, drip-dry and wrinkle resistant, washable without requiring dry cleaning are ideal.
3. These items may be useful: small alarm clock, two plastic bags for wet or soiled clothes, a few collapsible plastic hangers for your drip-drys, and sewing and first aid kits.
4. Pack as tightly as possible. Put shoes at the back of the case so that they are on the bottom when the case is upright. Fill the corners with small items. Breakable articles should be placed in the middle of the case tucked under layers of clothing. Try rolling some clothing instead of folding, this will leave more room in the case.
5. Liquid toiletries should be in unbreakable, non leaking containers.
6. Place inside all your luggage a slip of paper with your name and home address.
During the trip:
1. Carrying much cash is very risky. Carry travelers checks instead. Cash them only when it is necessary. Keep your exchange vouchers and receipts, but separate them from your checks since those details are required if you lose any of your checks and wish to make a claim.
2. Be careful of what you eat and drink. Drink bottled water. Researchers from the University of Texas advise that contaminated food rather than water is the major source of traveler’s intestinal infections. Stick to steaming hot foods, citrus fruits, dry foods like bread and tortillas, and sugary substances like jelly.
3. If you are traveling from a cold to a warm climate the change may be very sudden. Enjoy the sun in small doses until your body adjusts. Remember that there is an increased risk of skin infection in hot countries. Your clothing should be made of absorbent materials.
4. Be sure to carry with you documentation about your medical needs or wishes.
5. In the area of pickpockets, be alert to strangers who offer unsolicited help.
6. Stay away from areas viewed as dangerous.
7. Allow time after arrival to adjust physically before doing any strenuous activities.
Have a great and safe trip.