Travel is certainly high on everyone’s wish list these days, with global travel options continually becoming easier and more affordable. While travel does not need to be a complicated matter, there are some smart travel tips you can implement easily that will help you have a better trip. As someone with a “must be prepared for everything” complex when I go on vacation, these tips are designed to allow you to enjoy your trip (without seeming like a prepper).
Incognito/Private Mode
If you are browsing for rates on flights, hotels, and vacation packages, make sure that when you go to actually book that you put your browser in incognito mode. Many travel sites monitor your visits and will sometimes increase the price recognizing you might buy.
Roll Your Clothes
I am sure you have heard this one before, but it is such a good tip that so many forget to do! Rolling your clothes means you get the most compact way of packing, and it keeps some of the wrinkles out.
Keep a Digital Copy of Your ID
While it is not going to work at the airport, in the event that you lose your passport, driver’s license, flight itinerary, or something else, having a copy on your phone (or better yet, your email) can save you some major pains later.
Save a Google Map for Offline Use
You can easily save important Google Maps on your phone or tablet simply by typing “OK MAPS” into the search bar. It will ask you if you want to save it or modify the boundaries of it.
How to Get an Open Seat
If you are booking for two people, book both the window and the aisle seat leaving the middle seat open. Most people will try to avoid the single seat and opt for somewhere else – leaving you and your companion the full row. (And if someone does come, just switch seats.)
Know When To Buy Your Ticket
CheapAir.com monitored prices on four million airfares and found that the best time to buy came between 29 and 104 days before your intended day to travel. The day when domestic flights are the cheapest is 54 days before your desired travel date.
Use Foursquare and Yelp to Your Advantage
Many helpful users will share the WiFi passwords at establishments across the country and around the world. Conversely, if you want to be a good netizen, make sure to share any that you find out.
Pack a Power Bar
Never have I been happier (or a bigger hero) than the times when I was able to pull out the power bar and let everyone charge their devices simultaneously. Several times while traveling, only a single outlet worked in the room I was staying in – this made life so much easier.
As I am only one man, please comment below with any of your own smart travel tips or tweet us @ViewTheVibe.
