Avoid checking your bags
Never check a bag if you don’t need to, especially for lengthy stays. Heavy luggage is physically exhausting, but it’s also mentally tiring, takes longer to commute, and creates unneeded worry and dependency when travelling. Save yourself the trouble and don’t overpack. There is seldom a valid reason to check a bag unless you work in the fashion sector.
Skip security lines
Failure to pre-register for TSA Pre-Check, Global Entry, or a third-party security program like Clear might cost you dearly at the airport, much like carrying extra baggage. You may purchase fast check-in for each flight you take for less than $20 per year. This saves you precious time, enables you to stay in a place longer, and prevents you from having to endure the unpleasant security lines at all of the main U.S. airports (and even some international ones). As an added bonus, avoid lengthy customs and immigration lineups by downloading the free TSA Mobile Passport.
Don’t get hung up on loyalty programs
Here’s a little known fact: loyalty programmes don’t cost airlines money, but cost you over time. According to research, you can save a lot more money by researching airfares and choosing the cheapest airline, even if that airline is not your favourite. This does not imply that you shouldn’t sign up for frequent flier programs with other airlines, but don’t allow that loyalty to stop you from booking a more affordable flight somewhere else.
Wash your clothes
When travelling for an extended period of time, you will be compelled to wash your clothing or face the unpleasant repercussions if you don’t. The quickest and most affordable method to do this is with a good old-fashioned hotel sink wash, but if you’d rather, you could also out source the labour to a laundromat or hotel laundry service. In either case, get used to doing laundry while you’re abroad. If you wish to lighten your load, it’s an unavoidable aspect of life that you might as well accept.
Schedule around peak travel season
Avoid travelling to a place during its busiest time of year. Your patience and wallet will be put to the test as a result of the increased crowds and higher flight, hotel, and attraction prices. Day trips are the same way. Not only do early visitors receive the best seats, but they also frequently experience better lighting, less crowds, and more space to move around. This guideline also holds true around nightfall, when most tourists leave to go to dinner. In either case, develop the practise of maintaining high flexibility.
Don’t try everything all at once
When visiting a destination, many people try to take in everything all at once. There is a high probability that these plans will undoubtedly fail. Therefore, limit the number of things you attempt each day to three and schedule your day in threes (morning, afternoon, and night). This will not only save you from becoming exhausted, but it will also expose you to more unplanned events, which are typically more memorable than planned ones.
Put away the camera
If you’re traveling to a destination for yourself and/or the people who will be with you, make a decision in advance regarding how many images you’ll be taking, and then stick to it. You will appreciate your travels a lot more if you accept that you won’t be able to or shouldn’t capture everything. Experience life in the moment.
Read travel reviews
Reviews are a great way to find attractions, accommodations, and dining options that match your preferences. However, their usefulness has a limit. For you, a three-star experience might be a five-star for someone else. Instead of just glancing at the rating, take your time to read the entire review. Do your research while choosing where to go, but keep in mind that a review doesn’t always equate to your enjoyment.
Don’t shy away from conveniences
Buy that pricy airport lunch if you’re genuinely hungry. Consider paying more for oceanside if you want to spend most of your time at the beach. Choose an Uber versus a shuttle if you don’t want to wait around between stations. Spend money on items that will ease your burden and reduce stress. Sometimes paying is worthwhile (but not every time, if you want to stretch your dollar).
Restrict your phone use
Use your phone less, not more, if you want to enhance your travel experience, just like you should refrain from taking excessive photos. Decide on usage restrictions before you depart. Ask your travelling companion to help you stay honest. Then enjoy what is in front of you in all its magnificence.