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Traveling is one of the most enriching experiences that one can have. It broadens our perspective and exposes us to different cultures and ways of life. However, it can also be stressful and overwhelming if not planned properly. That’s why we’ve compiled these 10 golden Tips for Traveling to help you make the most out of your adventures. From packing efficiently to finding the best deals on flights, these Tips for Traveling will save you time, money, and hassle, so you can focus on enjoying your journey. So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first trip, read on to discover how to travel smarter.

1) If you want a cheap flight, be knowledgeable and flexible.

Finding good flight prices can be a headache. In the past, there used to be certain days (such as Tuesdays) that had better fares. Those days are gone. Promotions run throughout the entire week, so there isn’t necessarily a single day that’s better than others. But never fear; there are three things you can do right now to set yourself up to find cheap flights:

1. Sign up for Scott’s Cheap Flights email newsletter. This is customizable for international travel, so you can opt to only get emails for flights from your airport hub. There is a free version that sends a portion of the flight deals and a premium membership for all of the deals (and well worth the annual fee).
2. Sign up for The Flight Deal email newsletter, which is another free resource. This is great for domestic travel. Although the newsletter is a bit more cumbersome to read through versus Scott’s Cheap Flights, it is worth signing up for because it covers many more destinations per email.
3. Sign up to be on the email list for airlines. While it can be annoying to get spammed with frequent emails, you’ll also be the first to know when a promotion is going on.

The first step is knowing which places you’d like to visit and how many days or weeks you’d like to spend there. Keep that list somewhere handy because you’ll feel much more confident booking a flight as soon as a flight deal pops up. Hemming and hawing on a decision can be costly since prices can go up within several hours as they are generally based on demand.

The next step to capitalizing on cheap flights is to be flexible with your dates. Couple this with your list of destinations, and you’ll have so many options in front of you. Finally, if you are still on the fence, keep in mind that most airlines have a 24-hour cancellation policy. If they do, you can always book the flight and continue to research the feasibility of your trip within that time period. Cancel the flight if things don’t work out; no harm done.

 

2) Carry on instead of checking a bag

Losing luggage at the beginning of a trip has the potential to turn into the worst day ever. Packing more efficiently, bringing less, and carrying on belongings can save time at baggage claim and reduce stress about lost luggage. The key to packing smart and fashionably is to bring items that coordinate easily (neutral tones and solid colors with a few prints), do laundry during the trip and change up your outfit with different accessories such as scarves and hats.

Of course, there are some instances where you will be checking in a bag. If you have to do this, consider buying travel insurance. Certain travel-focused credit cards, such as the Chase Sapphire, even have lost luggage reimbursement programs, so check to see if you have similar perks.

 

3) Use Wikitravel, TripAdvisor, and blogs for trip planning

When starting at ground zero for trip planning, it’s always helpful to begin by reading the destination’s Wikitravel page to take a pulse on history, climate, transportation, things to eat, and notable features. From there, head over to TripAdvisor and look at the “things to do” list. Most of us only have a limited amount of time in a place, and it’s hard to decide between the hundreds of activities or landmarks to see. Look at the top 20 items on lists to get a sense of which sites are worth visiting. Of course, every traveler has specific interests, so don’t write anything off if it doesn’t rank well; this is just a basis for comparison.

Reading travel blogs can provide personal opinions from those who have visited the same areas. Travel blogs can give you a different perspective of a destination and might also come with hilarious stories that’ll prepare you for anything. There are travel blogs for every kind of niche out there – solo female, amputee, history, vegan, couples, food, fashion, and more. Guidebooks and generic websites simply can’t convey these kinds of perspectives

 

4) Create a single Google document for your ideas

Once a flight is booked, and travel plans are being made, creating a Google document and sharing it with companions can be important Tips for Traveling. This method involves writing out every date of the trip from departure to return, with bullet points underneath each day for arranging ideas and scheduling activities.

Each day includes the city or activity, accommodation information, and a brief overview of plans. General notes can be added to the bottom of the document, including sections for things like local cuisine, email correspondence, or other useful information. At the beginning of the document, important information such as currency rates, languages spoken, visa requirements, travel shots required, or safety precautions can be highlighted. Using one document can consolidate all travel notes and make it easier to manage when it’s time to go.

 

5) Print copies of your itinerary and passport

Many people rely heavily on their phones, but there may be times, places, or situations where they cannot use them. For instance, if a phone is dropped in the toilet on day 2 of a trip while in a remote village in Vietnam, it can be problematic. It is recommended to always have a printed copy of the full itinerary with contact information for accommodations and tours, as well as carrying a printed copy of the passport just in case anything should happen to the real one. It is important to keep the passport in the most secure location at all times, usually on the body, as losing it could easily transform the trip into the worst day.

 

6) When you arrive in a new place, take a walk around by yourself – Listen and observe

Entering a new location can be overwhelming at first, whether it’s for a new job, school, or country. One may feel like an alien on a distant planet without any idea of where to go, what to do, or how to communicate. Alternatively, one might also be eager to explore and have a list of places they intend to visit. Regardless, it can be helpful to take 15 to 20 minutes to walk around a new place.

This can aid in understanding the vibe in a non-intrusive way, familiarizing oneself with the neighborhood, and sparking curiosity about the people one has yet to meet. Subtle head nods and smiles can go a long way, even if you don’t speak the same language.

 

7) Download offline Google Maps

Traveling without constant access to wifi is common, but many people navigate using Google Maps to get around. It’s advisable to download an offline map so that one can keep track of their location without draining their data or hotspot battery life. Keep in mind certain features such as bike routes, transit details, and walking directions won’t work offline, but you will still be able to search addresses and businesses and get yourself over to them.

Instructions to download offline maps

• Download Google Maps on your phone
• Type in the city or area, such as “Quito, Ecuador”
• Click the 3-line menu bar in the top left corner, then select offline areas
• Under “download, an offline area,” click “custom area.”
• Zoom out of the area as far as it can go, and hit download
• Once the download is complete, you can rename the area you’ve downloaded, so it makes sense, such as “Quito, Ecuador.”
• Offline areas are kept for 30 days and then expire automatically
• If you need to keep the area longer than 30 days, click on it and hit “update.”

 

8) Traveling to another country isn’t necessarily the time for you to go “off the grid”

When it comes to wifi, having access to it whenever possible can greatly enhance your travel experience. In today’s world, it can be difficult to fully disconnect from work messages, even while on vacation. Although it may be tempting to disconnect completely, having internet connectivity can be beneficial for researching contextual information, translating languages, finding restaurants, communicating, and navigating while traveling abroad. It’s not uncommon to stop and explore a neighborhood, and in these situations, doing some quick research on a phone can help you better understand what you’re experiencing.

 

9) Order what they’re having

How will you discover your favorite local dish if you never get a chance to taste it? It may seem like common knowledge, but don’t forget to use your intuition when it comes to travel and food. If a restaurant is crowded with people and it smells good inside, you’ve likely hit a gastronomic jackpot. Don’t know how to read the menu? It’s all good (and perhaps even better that way). Just look around, spot something that piques your interest, and order what they’re having. The very worst thing that might happen is that you don’t enjoy the dish and will have to order another one. Not a lot to lose and much to gain by unearthing a tasty treasure.

 

10) Global Entry will save you precious time

If you are a person who travels frequently, it is advisable to consider getting Global Entry. This would allow for easy passage through processing lines, eliminate the need to fill out customs paperwork, and also give access to TSA PreCheck eligibility. Global Entry is available at major US airports, and its application fee is around $100. Once approved, the Global Entry status would be valid for 5 years.

Though the application process involves an online application and an in-person interview, it is worth the effort, as time is a valuable commodity. The TSA PreCheck program is also available for an application fee of $85 and is valid for 5 years upon approval. However, Global Entry covers TSA PreCheck, making it a better option for those willing to pay a little more.

 

Traveling can seem daunting at times because there are so many components involved– saving, research, strategy, wrangling people together, contacting companies, and so on. It’s a labor of love that we do because we’re curious about the world, and we’re compelled to see it with our own eyes. We hope these golden Tips for Traveling will help you more efficiently. Also, we suggest you take a look at the 52 Creative Ways to Save Money for Travel and Bucket list ideas from world-class travelers to get travel ideas.

Do you have any advice of your own on traveling smarter? We’d like to hear about it in the comments below!

What do you think of when you search for your Bucket List Ideas? Do you conquer fears? Do you seek new experiences? Are these things unattainable in your present life? No matter what you write down, we believe bucket lists are special because they represent potential. No matter what your present state is, your future is still wide open.

We spoke to some of the world-class travelers to find out where they’ve been and what they think you should see. This isn’t your average catalog of bucket list ideas. It is a collective of offbeat travel destinations from real people who started off with an idea– just like you. We hope this will inspire you to seek transformative travel across oceans, rainforests, and beyond your wildest dreams.

 

#17 Getting Lost in Colombia’s Ciudad Perdida, the “Lost City”

Sometimes, it’s a better experience to get lost than to get led, to explore rather than listen to an explanation. This is why we think Colombia’s Ciudad Perdida is a better experience than visiting the Disney-fied circus that Machu Picchu has become.

The trek to Ciudad Perdida is a challenging three-day hike that involves sleeping in hammocks, enduring insect bites, and avoiding snakes that the guide described as only “a little bit poisonous.” However, the experience of connecting with global backpackers in a communal setting more than made up for the physical exertion and minor injuries.

While Ciudad Perdida itself may not be as architecturally impressive as Machu Picchu, its lack of grandiosity is part of its appeal. In fact, taking just a few steps off the trail can lead to getting completely lost in the sound-absorbing jungle, which was once known as “the green hell.” The nearby villages remain largely unchanged from ancient times, making the trek an authentic and unique experience.

 

#16 Finding a Ruin Bar in Budapest

Discovering the unconventional side of Budapest is one of the things that endear visitors to the city. The ruin bars offer a unique nightlife experience for those seeking an alternative to traditional bars. These bars are located in various ruins throughout the city, often in old communist buildings. Exploring the crumbling interiors of these bars reveals numerous rooms, nooks, and crannies to discover.

Many ruin bars have multiple bars within them, playing indie music, showcasing random scenes on tvs, and offering hookah to patrons. The adventure of finding these bars adds to their allure, as they are often nondescript and located down dark alleyways, making it easy to get lost in the city. Overall, visiting a ruin bar is a must for those looking for an unforgettable and unconventional night out in Budapest.

 

#15 Spending the Night at a Mayan Village in the Yucatan of Mexico

Spending the night at a Mayan village in the Yucatan of Mexico offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich culture and way of life of the indigenous people. The traditional Mayan huts, known as Palapas, offer a rustic and authentic experience, allowing visitors to step out of their comfort zone and immerse themselves in the local culture.

During the stay, visitors may be invited to join in local celebrations or rituals, such as a traditional Mayan birthday party or a shaman-led cleansing ceremony. These experiences offer a chance to try traditional Mayan food and learn about the unique spiritual beliefs and practices of the culture.

 

#14 Bowling in North Korea

Bowling may not be the first activity that one associates with North Korea due to the negative image portrayed by the media. However, for those with an open mind, visiting this mysterious country can offer a unique and eye-opening experience.

One recommended activity is to visit local bowling alleys and mix in with the crowd. Despite preconceptions, the alleys can get quite busy and provide an opportunity to observe how locals spend their free time and interact with them. Celebrating each other’s victories in bowling games with neighboring bowlers can also be a fun and social experience.

 

#13 Swimming at the Natural Hot Springs – Hierve el Agua in Oaxaca

Hierve el Agua is a special destination that stands out among the many places in the world to visit. It’s a natural hot springs/rock formation in rural Oaxaca with pools that have been eroded out of the rock with incredible views of the valley. Half the fun is the difficulty of getting there (if you don’t do a tour, it requires multiple bus/taxi transfers) and the fact that it’s hidden at the top of this random valley. A magical place to add to your bucket list ideas.

 

#12 Getting massaged by the Blind at Omamori Spa in Hanoi

This is one of the most unusual experiences you can get in Hanoi. Not only do you get an incredible massage for less than €15, but you can also support an amazing cause. Omamori Spa on Hang Bun Street and Huynh Thuc Khang Street is run by a social enterprise called Blind-Link which offers employment to people who are blind or visually impaired. These skilled masseuses have an exceptional awareness of the body and are attentive to any aches and pains, making for a massage experience like no other.

 

#11 Street Racing Mario Kart in Tokyo

There have been recent crackdowns on go-karting in the streets of Tokyo, and word on the street is that go-karting and Robot restaurants might soon be a thing of the past. Who doesn’t want to relive their childhood memories of playing Mario Kart on the Super Nintendo…but in real life? The experience of driving a go-kart dressed up as Mario and going 90km per hour on the highways of Japan is something that shouldn’t be missed. It is recommended to experience it soon before it’s too late.

 

#10 Scuba Diving at the World’s Deepest Indoor Diving Pool in Brussels, Belgium

When looking up things to do during a stint in Brussels, many expect waffle-making classes, events in Grand-Place, and Belgian chocolate tours galore. Scuba diving is not typically on the radar. For avid divers who have enjoyed dive meccas all over the world, from the Caribbean to Thailand, Belgium is not a place that often comes to mind.

However, much to their delight, there is Nemo 33, a gigantic dive waterpark. The deepest section of the pool plunges all the way to 113 feet, and it contains 660,000 gallons of water in total. Visitors can spend the afternoon swimming around, peeping through the pool’s windows at the patrons enjoying the dive shop’s restaurant, and exploring an underwater world in a place one would never expect to find themselves scuba diving.

 

#9 Hang-gliding in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, hang gliding is a must-try experience. Running off the edge of a mountain and soaring hundreds of meters above one of the most beautiful cities in the world is an unforgettable experience. The lack of control may be daunting at first, but once you get over it, the feeling of flying is incomparable. Warm winds from the ocean can lift you above the take-off point, giving you a longer flight time and incredible views of the city and its landmarks, such as Pedra de Gavea and sugar loaf. It’s one of the top bucket list ideas that have a breathtaking experience that words cannot fully describe.

 

#8 Volcano Boarding in Nicaragua

Sliding down an active volcano on a makeshift toboggan is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience because there is only one place in the world with the ideal conditions to do it: Cerro Negro near Leon, Nicaragua. The novelty, the idea of danger, and the sheer ridiculousness of the whole concept are what make the experience so unique and memorable.

Once you book your tour, hike up the ash-ridden volcano, and put your jumpsuit on, it’s all up to you to control your board. Go as fast or as slow as you feel comfortable and try not to wipe out. Everyone should experience this because it will be one of the unique things they have ever done.

 

#7 Cycle around the Aran Islands in Ireland

It’s an experience that shouldn’t be missed. A day trip to Inishmore, the largest of the three islands, can easily be done from either Galway or Dingle by taking a ferry. The ferry ride may not be for the faint of heart, but the journey is just as memorable as the destination. Once on the island, rent a bike and take the “seal colony” route to see the seals sunbathing during low tide.

The Aran Islands transport you back in time with its rock fences and small population, making you feel like you’re in Ireland. It’s recommended to leave a few days in your schedule instead of one, so you won’t feel rushed. Also, don’t forget to check out the Cliffs of Moher and the town of Dingle.

 

#6 Frogging, Alligators, and Eating in the Louisiana Bayou

Exploring the Louisiana Bayou offers a unique experience that many visitors to New Orleans might miss out on. While Bourbon Street is a popular destination, venturing outside the city can lead to unforgettable experiences. One such experience is frogging, which involves using a pole and net to catch frogs in the swamps. It’s important to look for the white glow of their eyes to avoid catching alligators instead.

To round out the day, a visit to a local Cajun restaurant is a must. A mixed plate of fried catfish, crawfish, alligator, frog legs, chicken wings, hush puppies, and boudin (a sausage mixed with rice) is a tasty way to experience the local cuisine. While the activities may seem unusual, the overall experience is a must-try for anyone visiting the Louisiana Bayou.

 

#5 Hiking Through the Pyrenees in Andorra

Growing up, many countries were never mentioned in history classes. It is fascinating to research all that we were never taught about the world. Micro-nations like Andorra are often overlooked, but once you arrive, it’s hard to believe it’s not at the forefront of everyone’s bucket list ideas. On a sunny day in July, the small mountain town of Soldeu in Andorra was breathtaking. The Pyrenees mountains were stunning, and the water was crystal clear.

Despite not being a well-known destination, the hiking experience in Andorra was unforgettable, and the air was invigorating. It’s a reminder that just because something isn’t on everyone’s radar, it doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be on yours. You can add Andorra to your bucket list ideas to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Pyrenees mountains.

 

#4 Motorcycling North Island New Zealand

Traveling by motorcycle is one of the most rewarding challenges one can think of. It’s a task that requires full attention, quick wits, and attention to detail. If any of these three details are compromised, the consequences could lead to some serious road rash. But the reward of where the bike will take you and what you will see is well worth it.

Motorcycling through North Island, New Zealand, can be an exciting and adventurous experience. The island offers a diverse range of landscapes, from sandy beaches to volcanic peaks, rolling hills to dense forests, and serene lakes to bustling cities. Overall, a motorcycling trip through North Island, New Zealand, can be a rewarding and memorable experience for adventure seekers who are prepared to follow safety guidelines and respect the local culture and environment.

 

#3 Hiking Montenegro’s Wild Mountains

Montenegro is one of Europe’s newest countries, having been one of the last countries to separate in the breakup of Yugoslavia in 2006. It’s overshadowed by its neighbor to North Croatia, which has become a holiday favorite. While some people are starting to visit the Montenegrin coastline, where we think the country really shines, its wild, untouched mountains and national parks.

Durmitor National Park in the northeastern corner of Montenegro is one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever been. The geography is insanely rugged and beautiful, having been carved from melting glaciers over hundreds of thousands of years. Hiking through, you’ll pass through landscapes that alternate looking like Iceland, Scotland, New Zealand, and beyond.

You can do multi-day treks or do an epic one-day hike that brings you to the peak of Bobotov Kuk, the Durmitor range’s highest mountain at 2,525 meters. From the peak, you can see three countries all at once: Montenegro, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Serbia. On the way back, you can stop by ice caves or the famous Black Lake. This part of the world is still very much undiscovered, and hiking there is something that all lovers of the outdoors should do!

 

#2 Staying in Remote Jungle Hostels

Being completely immersed in nature at a remote jungle hostel can be an incredible experience! Falling asleep and waking up to the sounds of monkeys howling, birds chirping, and critters rustling through the jungle can be a mesmerizing experience. You might spot monkeys swinging through the air, toucans resting on the treetops, or lizards scurrying across the ground. But it’s essential to be careful not to step on any giant toads in the dark.

What really makes a jungle hostel amazing is having plenty of hiking trails to explore. Lost & Found Hostel in Panama is a great option for hiking enthusiasts, with trails leading to scenic viewpoints, swift rivers, and secret caves. It’s definitely worth the steep 15-minute trek with all your gear to get to this hostel. The treasure hunt here encourages guests to make new friends and have a great time hiking through the jungle to uncover clues to a puzzle.

Bolita Hostel in Costa Rica is also a highly recommended bucket list ideas for those seeking an intense jungle hostel experience. It’s located on the edge of Corcovado National Park, one of the most biologically intense places on Earth, and you need to cross two rivers to reach the hostel.

 

#1 Trekking the Tour du Mont Blanc

One could never have fathomed how much a single trek could change the trajectory of their travel lust. The Tour du Mont Blanc is a famous world-class route that takes you 170 kilometers (or 105 miles) through the legendary Alps of France, Italy, and Switzerland. This is the first long-distance trek that many undertake and self-guide. For more details about these bucket list ideas, you can check the 7-Day Self-Guided Tour Du Mont Blanc Itinerary and What You Need To Know To Do A Self-Guided Tour Du Mont Blanc Hike.

 

In conclusion, these 17 bucket list ideas from world-class travelers offer a glimpse into the vast array of experiences that travel has to offer. From trekking through the legendary Alps to exploring remote jungle hostels and from motorcycling through New Zealand and many more, the possibilities are endless. By stepping out of our comfort zones and embracing new challenges, we can broaden our horizons and create memories that last a lifetime. So, whether you’re an avid traveler or just starting to plan your next adventure, consider adding one of these experiences to your bucket list and let the journey begin!