Preparing for a trip can be exciting. You can’t help but to be consumed by the thoughts of unknown adventures that lie ahead. While you’re excited, there’s just so much to be taken care of before you leave. Days before your departure can be filled with feelings of being overwhelmed. Don’t fret! These tips should help check many things off your pre-travel to-do list.
1) MAKE SURE YOU HAVE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS
If you’re going abroad, obviously you need a passport. But some countries require visas and medical information to be shown upon arrival. Be sure to check with the State Department to see what your host country requires before entering. Additionally, it’ll be helpful to check-in for your flight before you arrive to the airport. You’ll be able to (hopefully) breeze through Security and won’t waste much time standing in lines.
2) PACK FOR YOUR TRIP
Preparing for a long or short term trip should determine how much you pack. Despite how many new outfits you bought, you don’t need a large suitcase for a 3-day trip. Don’t weigh your suitcase down with toiletries and cosmetics either. You don’t want to pay any unnecessary baggage overage fees. Oh, and don’t forget to leave room for your souvenirs. Paying fees for overweight bags on the return trip home would be a bummer.
3) CLEAN HOUSE
There’s just something about coming home to a clean house after a trip that makes everything right in the world. Do your laundry, clean out the refrigerator and tidy up before leaving. You’ll pat yourself on the back when you return home.
4) PHONES & OTHER GADGETS
Check with your service provider to see what costs are associated with your destination, especially if you’re traveling internatioanally. Different rates may apply for different countries. Your destination may also have different electrical outlets. Verify before you go.
5) WOMEN, GET GROOMED!
If you’re a guy reading this, skip down to number 6…although you need to make sure you’re properly groomed as well. But ladies, style your hair in a way that’s conducive for what you’ll be doing while vacationing. You don’t want your hair to be an unwelcome distraction and prohibit you from enjoying your trip. Lastly, don’t forget to get a pedicure and take care of your waxing needs. The world will thank you later.
6) MAKE DESTINATION TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS
See if your airline charges baggage fees. You don’t want any unexpected surprises when you arrive at the airport. Also, check with your hotel to see if they offer a free shuttle to and from the airport. This will help cut down on travel costs.
7) RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH!
If you’re a frequent visitor to my site, you know that I think this is one of the most important parts of traveling. You want to make sure you see the top sites and as much of your destination as you can.
Keep in mind that these tips are for short-term trips only. If you’re planning on taking a longer trip, there are several more things you need to take of, but this is a good start. Do you have any tips for preparing for travel? Comment and let us know!