Flights booked, car rented, accommodation sorted, Visas acquired–now what!? Sorting out the actual travel part is easy, especially with all the online assistance and apps out there today giving us suggestions on how to book and where to stay. There are so many little things we forget about or have to throw out.
There is nothing like making it all the way to the airport and learning the bag we packed doesn’t fit in the overhead, or having to use toothpaste that tastes like a big, ball of salt because we forgot to pack our own. Below are some great tips and tricks to survive travels like a pro and really get the most out of whatever adventure you decide to step out on.
Packing Like A Pro
It’s not always a question of what to pack, but rather what in the world to pack it in. If you are planning a flight/train hopping trip to Europe, they change their baggage regulations all the time. If you’re thinking about backpacking in Asia or Australia, you’ll want a durable, lockable rucksack or backpack for those treacherous nights outdoors–and in the hostels.
Those items can be super expensive when you have to buy them new. Stores like Sears offer luggage deals with coupon codes on Groupon for up to 90% off carry-on luggage and backpacks. Another place to look for super durable rucksacks is Home Depot. Not your usual bag carrier, but tool backpacks can your best friend when hiking or trucking up the 272 stairs to Batu Caves.
Always Put Your Best Foot Forward
Research the area you are traveling to before you pack your bags. A lot of people will sincerely give misinformation on the internet. Next thing, we’re buy rain boots or hiking sandals. Once you decide what type of shoes are appropriate for your trip, check out stores like Nordstrom or Sports Authority. They often offer sweet holiday discount sales, coupon codes, and even free shipping on sites like Groupon Coupons.
Forget the Crappy Souvenirs
Throwing away that smashed ceramic magnet or glass nail file can really hurt, or maybe we just simply don’t have room for big, bulky things. Instead of spending money on monetary items put your smartphone or digital camera to good use! Take photos of every moment possible, then check out Shutterfly’s free Groupon Coupon codes. Shutterfly often has prints for under 10 cents apiece, or you can make a really cool memory book for a sweet keepsake.
Go Ahead & Take Your Favorite Toiletries
We forget to pack things, don’t think we need things, or all too often get told we can’t take things on the flight we’re about to board. No matter what you think about your destination, if it’s an item that is crucial to survival–take it! Also keep in mind that some countries don’t use the same ingredients or simply don’t have what you need. For instance, antibiotic ointment is unheard of in the UK and toothpaste in Asia tastes like a mouthful of rock salt. Grab your favorite first aid or toiletry items for less from stores like Walgreens. Walgreens has 50-90% off coupon codes regularly advertised on Groupon too, for deep discount savings.