21 Travel Tips to Make You The World's Savviest Traveler
Table of Contents
1. Buy a small backpack/suitcase
If you buy a small backpack, you’ll have to pack light and not bring too much stuff with you. People have a natural desire to fill space, so if you pack light but have a lot of extra room in your bag, you’ll end up thinking, “Well, I guess I can take more,” and then you’ll regret it because you’ll be carrying around a bunch of stuff you don’t need and more weight on your shoulders.
Suitcases follow the same rule. Don’t bring a big suitcase because it’s a pain to drag around, especially if you’re going to be gone for a long time (short term not so much). I like Level 8 suitcases. They are sturdy, have a lot of space, look good, and are priced well (luggage can be pretty damn expensive). Also, the zipper has a TSA lock built in. You can learn more and buy one by clicking here.
2. Pack light
You can wear the same T-shirt more than once in a row. Take only half as many clothes as you think you’ll need… you’ll need less than you think. Make a list of everything you need, cut it in half, and then only bring half of that! Plus, since you bought a small backpack like I said above, you won’t have much room for extra stuff anyway!
3. Bring along an additional bank card and credit card just in case.
Disasters happen. Always make sure you have a backup in case you get mugged or lose a card you were carrying. You don’t want to find yourself stranded in an unfamiliar location without access to your funds. A card of mine was once counterfeited, and I had a hold placed on it. The rest of my trip was ruined because I couldn’t use it. It made me very happy that I had an extra, unlike my friend who didn’t have one and had to continually borrow money from me because he didn’t have any!
4. Never be afraid to consult a map when traveling.
Being completely disoriented and winding up in the wrong neighborhood is a significantly more embarrassing situation than appearing to be a tourist. Don’t be embarrassed to ask for directions or consult a map; acting like a tourist is perfectly acceptable. In the end, you are one of them! When I go on trips, I always bring a map with me. It assists you in arriving at your desired destination!
5. It is recommended that you always visit the tourist information office.
They are fully apprised of local happenings. They will be able to direct you to everything from free events to unique experiences happening during your stay. Discounts are also available on transportation and sightseeing.
Helping you have a more rewarding time at your destination is part of their job description. It’s surprising how many visitors don’t make use of this, but you’re a smart cookie and won’t make that mistake. This is one of the best travel tips ever, but hardly anyone ever uses it. Make use of the appropriate tourist office! Get monetary aid!
6. Take only what you need when you leave.
Reduce the amount of money and credit cards you take with you so that you can quickly recover if something does go wrong. Never travel with more than one ATM or credit card. Our rule of carrying no more than $75 USD in cash.
7. It’s a good idea to duplicate your passport and other crucial documents just in case.
Send yourself an email with a copy. You should always have a copy of any important documents on hand, even if you prefer to keep the original safe. Having a duplicate on hand is also helpful for filing a police report in the event your passport is lost or stolen.
8. Pick up some words and phrases in the language of your location.
Everyone around you will have a better time and appreciate your effort. A few simple phrases like “Hello,” “Goodbye,” “Thank you,” and “Where is the bathroom?” can go a long way toward winning over the locals without requiring you to become fluent in their language. Attempting something will be appreciated.
9.Try to avoid flying nonstop.
When it comes to arranging flights, it is sometimes more cost-effective to arrive at airports that are located close to your ultimate destination. From there, you may take a bus or train to get to where you need to go. Be sure to look around for the best price on your flight, and keep in mind that going direct isn’t always the most cost-effective option. The following are some of my favorite flight search engines:
Skyscanner is the website that I always use to discover the best deals on airplane tickets. It searches a wide variety of airlines, including many of the low-cost airlines that are overlooked by more comprehensive services.
The Google Flights website. Google Flights, one of the greatest airline search engines currently available, enables you to enter the airport at which you will be departing and then displays flights to destinations all over the world on a map, allowing you to determine which location offers the best value.
10. Do not be hesitant to inquire about available room upgrades when you check in to the hotel.
When it comes to the allocation of upgrades upon check-in, they have a lot of leeway to work with. It is never a bad idea to inquire. There is a good chance that they will be able to accommodate you if the hotel is not completely booked. Just try to put others first!
11. Libraries, Starbucks, and most cafés have free Wi-Fi.
Check out one of these locations if you’re staying somewhere that will charge you to connect to the internet. You won’t be charged anything to connect.
12. The greatest time to travel to historical sites is during the lunch hour.
Be a contrarian. Because most vacationers and tour groups are going to lunch at the same time, you won’t have to deal with as many people trying to get in your way. It is always advisable to attend an attraction extremely early in the morning, very late in the evening, or during times when people are eating. You’ll have the place all to yourself, even in the most popular spots!
13. Avoid eating near tourist attractions.
We usually recommend walking 3-4 blocks to find a restaurant. Tourist attractions cost more and have poorer meals (and service). Find great local eateries on Google Maps.
14. You should not dine out every night, just like the locals do not.
Go to the grocery store. You can learn a great deal about the local cuisine by observing the food people purchase. Additionally, it will save you a substantial amount of money. You won’t regret it. Prepare your own food, save money, and delight yourself!
15. Reserve your flight two to three months in advance to receive the best rate.
Don’t go insane attempting to obtain the absolute cheapest fare. Three hours spent attempting to save 20 dollars will generate a great deal of anxiety. Here are some articles about how to save money on airfare:
- 5 Steps to Booking a Cheap Flight Online
- How to Always Find a Cheap Flight
16. Meet locals through Meetup, the sharing economy, and hospitality websites.
These websites will help you gain an insider’s perspective on your travel destination by linking you with locals. The sharing economy has altered the way that people travel, allowing you to meet locals, avoid tourist attractions, and save a ton of cash. It’s a triple win, and I utilize these tools frequently when I travel. Here is an article on how to travel using the sharing economy (and which websites to utilize).
Here are some of my favorite websites for the sharing economy and hospitality:
Couchsurfing is a website that allows users to stay for free in people’s sofas or spare rooms. It’s an excellent method to save money while meeting people who can tell you much more about a location than a hostel or hotel can.
Airbnb – This website connects you with homeowners who rent out their houses and apartments.
EatWith – There is a fee (everyone chooses their own price), but this is a terrific chance to experience something unique, learn from a local, and make a new friend.
BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that allows you to split gas costs with vetted local drivers. You simply request a seat, they grant it, and you’re off!
Gumtree – This website similar to Craigslist is an incredible resource for tourists. You can locate travel companions, rideshares, employment, used equipment, and homestays, among other things.
17. Allow yourself to connect with strangers.
There are some who won’t bite. Get out and greet strangers. Make friends out of complete strangers. Always keep in mind that they are human beings just like you. They have goals and dreams for a fulfilling life, too! Maybe. Maybe not. Potentially long-lasting friendships could develop.
18.Try new food.
Never ask. Just taste it. You might miss some uncommon and tasty local cuisine if you’re on guard. Here are some articles on cheap, tasty meals around İzmir:
- Our Favourite Restaurants in İzmir
- How to Eat Cheap Around İzmir
- How to Eat Around İzmir on a Vegan Diet
19. They always cost a lot of money. You should never, ever take a taxi unless you have to.
20. Take free walking tours.
Not only are these tours free, but they will also give you a good overview of the city you are visiting. You can pass the time, ask the guide a lot of questions, and learn a lot about where you are. When you travel, take a walking tour! Here are some lists of our favorite companies in İzmir that offer free walking tours:
- The Best Walking Tours in İzmir
21. Eat Street Food
Skipping street food means missing culture. Fear not. If you’re nervous, eat where kids are. You’re safe if they are.
Voilà! Top travel suggestions! Follow them to become the best traveler in no time! Comment below with anything we missed!
