1. 🛂 Keep Digital & Physical Copies of Important Documents
Make photocopies of your passport, visa, ID, travel insurance, and bookings. Store them in your email and bring one hard copy, just in case.
2. 💳 Inform Your Bank/Credit Card Before You Travel
Avoid card blocks due to “suspicious activity” by notifying your bank/credit card of your travel dates and destinations.
3. 🎒 Pack Light & Smart
Stick to essentials. Use packing cubes, roll your clothes, and follow the 80/20 rule—you wear 20% of your clothes 80% of the time.
4. 🌍 Learn a Few Local Phrases
Knowing basic greetings or how to say “thank you” in the local language goes a long way in earning respect and kindness.
5. 🚕 Use Offline Maps
Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before you go. Super helpful when you don’t have data or Wi-Fi.
6. 🔌 Bring a Universal Adapter
Different countries = different plug types. A universal adapter with USB ports is a lifesaver.
7. 🛌 Book Accommodations with Free Cancellation
Plans can change. Booking.com and Airbnb offer options with flexible cancellation policies.
8. 🍽️ Eat Where Locals Eat
Skip tourist traps. Ask locals or use apps like Google Reviews or Yelp to find authentic, budget-friendly meals.
9. 🧴 Carry a Travel-Sized First Aid Kit
Include basics like pain relievers, band-aids, motion sickness pills, and any personal medications.
10. 🧘 Stay Flexible and Open-Minded
Things may go wrong—flights delayed, plans changed—but those often lead to the best stories. Stay positive and go with the flow