My 65 Best Travel Tips: Save Money, Avoid Mistakes & Travel Like A Pro

After 15 years of traveling the world, I’ve gathered the best travel tips and tricks to save money, avoid mistakes, and travel like a pro!

I’ve definitely learned my fair share of lessons while traveling – like the time I was robbed on a train because I let my guard down or the time Scott and I showed up at the Bozeman Airport only to find that we no longer had a car rental.

Some of these travel mishaps can be avoided and some of them are just a part of traveling. You simply cannot plan for everything. However, keeping a few important things in mind will make your travels much easier.

People often ask us, “What should I know before I travel?” or “What is your top travel tip?” so we put together the do’s and don’ts of traveling with these 65 travel tips that every traveler needs to know!

 

My 65 Best Travel Tips

 

1. Be Flexible

We always plan for delays and try not to get upset when things inevitably go wrong. Patience is extremely important when traveling!

 

2. Make A List

About a week or so before each trip, I make a mental list of items I don’t want to forget — which I WILL forget if I don’t write them down. I’ve learned that when I think of something, I need to write it down.

Packing lists are essential! Read more: The Ultimate Carry-On Packing Guide and our Road Trip Packing Guide.

 

3. Learn Common Phrases Of The Local Language

A simple “Please,” “Thank you,” and “I’m sorry” in the local language goes a long way. I also like to learn the word for beer, but that’s just me.

 

4. Don’t Forget An Extra Camera Battery (Or Two)

Have you ever gotten to that epic sunset photo spot and realized your camera battery is dead and you don’t have a back up? I try to bring at least three camera batteries on all of our trips so that we don’t miss out on that perfect shot.

 Read more: The Ultimate Packing Guide for Travel Photographers

 

5. Always Bring A Sarong

Sarongs can be used as a wrap when you are cold, a towel, a curtain, or a piece of clothing that can be worn dozens of different ways. Solid colors are great, but if you want something that stands out, I love this sarong.

 Read more: 8 Ways to Wear a Sarong

 

6. Always Buy Travel Insurance

A medical emergency can wipe out your savings — or even worse. We use and trust World Nomads for travel insurance.

 

7. Make Photocopies Of Important Documents

In my early twenties, I was very good about keeping a copy of my passport in a separate bag from my actual passport. Then I got lazy.

Recently, a friend of mine lost her passport at the airport. She was told that if she had brought a copy of it and extra passport photos they would have let her travel. Since she didn’t, she was forced to forfeit a $2,000 flight and a week in Europe. I now carry a copy with me.

 Read more: Checklist for Overseas Travel

 

8. Pack Extra Underwear

Undies are small and it’s always a good idea to have a few extra pairs in case of emergencies. Another option is to pack these quick-dry underwear so you can easily wash them on the road.

 

9. Pre-Plan Your Outfits

I’m a lazy, last-minute packer, so I’ve spent too many trips with all black or all grey outfits because I didn’t plan my outfits before packing. I look back at photos and wish I had put more effort into packing.

 Read more: How to Stay Stylish While Traveling

 

10. Put Electronics, Medications, Toothbrush, And An Extra Pair of Underwear In Your Carry-On

A few important items should always go in your carry-on. A swimsuit is also a good idea if you are going on a beach vacation. You can buy most of these things if your bag gets lost, but having them in your carry-on will save you money and time if your luggage gets lost in transit.

 

11. Enquire About The Price BEFORE You Take Public Transportation

It’s a good idea to ask about the price before you hop on a bus, guagua, or other form of public transportation. We learned our lesson in the Dominican Republic.

 Read more: 10 Best Tips for Traveling Europe

 

12. Bring Lotion In Your Carry-On

I fill both sides of a contact lens case with hydrating lotion (I use this all-natural hydrating lotion) because they rarely have it in the lavatories and airplane cabins are exceptionally dry.

 

13. Stay Hydrated On Planes

I know it’s fun to get drunk at 30,000 feet, but it’s also much easier to get dehydrated. Staying hydrated — especially on long-haul flights — makes it easier to get over jet lag too.

 

14. Put Your Room Number & Hotel Address In Your Phone

Am I the only one who can’t remember my hotel room number?? There has to be others out there like me.

 

15. Ask The Locals

We always ask the locals to point us to the best restaurants, awesome spots to watch the sunset, the best coffee shops, etc. I do like to tell people what type of food I’m craving though. I’ve been led to some interesting restaurants that wouldn’t have been my first choice.

 

16. Beware Of Free Public WIFI

I always try to avoid logging into bank accounts or entering any passwords while I’m using free public WIFI at a place like an airport. I’m not as strict about it once I’ve gotten to my hotel, especially if they have a password for their wifi.

 

17. Alert Your Bank And Credit Card Company Of Your Travel Plans

This is a great habit to get into if you don’t want your credit card company or bank to put a hold on your card while you are overseas.

 

18. Wear Sunscreen

My face moisturizer has SPF. This is just something I do every day, but it’s especially important while traveling.

 

19. Book Early For Cheap Flights

Flights are always the first thing I book when planning a trip — sometimes I do this nearly a year in advance! For the most part, the earlier you book, the better price you will get. Airfare rarely goes down in price unless there is a sale (or an airline pricing error).

Skyscanner is the first place I check when searching for cheap flights. It searches hundreds of sites for the best fare and includes both standard and budget airlines. The calendar (or “map”) feature shows the cheapest days to fly in your preferred month of travel!

I also sign up for Scott’s Cheap Flights alerts and have saved thousands of dollars on their secret flight deals.

 Read more: How to Book the Absolute Cheapest Flights to Anywhere

 

20. Keep An Open Mind

Don’t judge other customs. You are a visitor. Be respectful.

 

21. Leave Room For Spontaneity

Don’t plan your entire itinerary ahead of time. It’s tempting, I know, but those unplanned moments while traveling can be the best memories.

 

22. Let Someone At Home Know Your Plans

This is extremely important when traveling solo, but it’s still a good idea no matter how many people are in your travel group.

 Read more: 10 Common Travel Scams & How to Avoid Them

 

23. Separate Your Personal Items

When Scott and I travel together, we mix our personal items into each checked bag (assuming we have more than one). That way if one of our bags gets lost, we both still have some clothing and personal items.

 

24. Separate Your Sources Of Money

Don’t keep all of your cash and cards in one spot. I usually hide some cash and a back up credit/bank card in a separate bag — not the same bag as my wallet.

 Read more: 10 Best Jobs For People Who Love To Travel

 

25. Travel First Aid Kit

We pack up a small first aid kit with aspirin, Benadryl, cold meds, Tums, cough drops, bandages, Activated Charcoal pills (these are a lifesaver for traveler’s diarrhea and minor allergic reactions), Neosporin, and other things that we may not always have easy access to when traveling. J&J sells an inexpensive mini first aid kit.

 

26. Book Refundable Hotel Rooms In Advance

Some travelers prefer to book their travel last minute, but I’m not one of them. I believe this was easier years ago when travel was not nearly as popular as it is today. If you’re going to a well-known and popular destination, you’ll want to plan at least 6 months in advance — especially if you’re traveling during the busy season for that destination.

The earlier you book your hotel, the better chance you will have at getting your choice of location at an affordable price. We use booking.com to book our hotels as we have found them to have the best price and most reliable review system.

 

27. Purchase Durable Luggage

Nobody wants to end up in the middle of their trip with broken luggage. After 15+ years of travel, I’ve put together a list of the most durable luggage on the market.

 

28. Pre-Book Activities And Tours

Similar to hotels, if you’re traveling to a popular destination and you know you want to take a specific tour, book these in advance. Places like Antelope Canyon and activities like swimming with pigs book up fast during the busy season!

 

29. Check In For Your Flight As Soon As It Opens

I set a reminder in my phone to check in as soon as that particular flight opens. This is especially important if you’re traveling with a buddy.

 

30. Bring Earplugs

I always carry a pack of earplugs — you never know when you will need them. Sleep is so important when traveling!

 

31. Pack A Small Quick-Dry Towel

A travel-size microfiber towel that dries quickly is important to have on hand. I even carry one of these in my car when I’m at home.

 

32. Use Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are great for keeping your suitcase organized as well as saving space. My favorite packing cubes come with a lifetime warranty.

 

33. Bring A Scrubba Bag To Wash Your Clothes

I’ve done my fair share of laundry in a hotel room sink or bathtub, but this Scrubba Bag invention makes things so much easier. 

 

34. Carry A Small Bag For Dirty Laundry

I always travel with a small laundry bag that keeps my dirty clothes separated from my clean clothes — or you can use your Scrubba Portable Wash Bag as your dirty clothes bag. I like to put a dryer sheet in the bag to help with the smell as well.

 

35. Use A Packing List

It’s helpful to use a packing list from other travelers who have been to that destination before. We have tons of guides for packing, here are a few:

Alaska Packing List

Europe Packing List

Iceland Packing List

Norway Packing List

 

36. Bring A Universal Adapter

This universal travel adapter has everything you will need and it includes dual USB charging ports.

 

37. Wake Up Early To Beat The Crowds

My favorite time to explore a new destination is at sunrise. It’s also the best time for photos in many cases!

 Read more: How to Take Amazing Travel Photos as a Solo Traveler

 

38. Bring A Small Foldable Backpack For Sightseeing

I personally bring a huge camera bag that I don’t want to carry around on long day trips, so I bring this small foldable daypack in my suitcase to carry whatever I need for the day once I get to my destination — including camera gear. 

 

39. Bring A GoPro

GoPros are great not only for underwater photos, but for selfies as well. They are super light and don’t take up much room in your bag.

 Read more: The Best Travel Cameras & How To Choose

 

40. Don’t Be Afraid To Get Lost

Sometimes getting lost while traveling ends up leading you to things you wouldn’t normally see. Now, I’m not advocating to get lost in the middle of the desert without water or getting lost in an unsafe neighborhood. Safety first!

 

41. Ask Permission To Take Photos Of Locals

This should go without saying, but I feel like I should say it just in case. 

 

42. Carry Hand Sanitizer

Travel-size hand sanitizer bottles are great when there’s no washroom available. 

 

43. Rent A Car When Possible

Public transportation is a great option when you’re on a budget or when you’re visiting a city. However, there are some places you’ll want your own set of wheels to explore more off the beaten path.

 

44. Carry Snacks

I ALWAYS carry snacks. This keeps me from missing meals and having some healthier options on those long travel days.

 

45. Make Breakfast At Your Hotel Or Vacation Rental

If I’m staying more than a day or two in one location, I’ll buy a few items like oatmeal, granola, or fruit to have on hand for an easy and cheap breakfast. This saves me both time and money!

 

46. Travel During The Off Season For The Best Deals

You can find some great deals during the shoulder season. However, if this is a once-in-a-lifetime trip and you want the best likelihood of good weather, sometimes it’s better to spend a little more rather than having your entire vacation ruined by weather.

 

47. Bring A Light Jacket

A light water-resistant jacket is great for unexpected (or expected) rain and wind.

 

48. Bring A Handpresso

A handpresso is such a fun little invention. I obviously don’t bring this on all of my trips, but it’s great for camping or road trips.

 

49. Visit The Local Tourism Office

The local tourism office is such a wealth of information. You can grab local maps, they can suggest free activities or special events happening during your stay, and they can even offer discounts on attractions and transportation.

 

50. Bring Your Own Water Bottle

I always bring my own travel water bottle. Most airports these days have water bottle filling stations so it’s great for airports too. Let’s use less plastic!

 

51. Use Google Translate

Download the Google Translate app on your phone and you’ll be able to speak to locals as well as translate signs and menus.

 

52. Carry Small Change

Not having the correct change for things like public transportation can cause you to pay more. Always carry small change and separate it in your bags.

 

53. Use A Portable Luggage Scale

A small portable luggage scale is useful if you’re worried about over packing on your way home and you don’t want to pay expensive luggage overage fees. 

 

54. Roll Your Clothes

Rolling your clothes keeps them free of wrinkles and helps to organize your bag. You can find your clothes much easier than the traditional folding and stacking method.

 

55. Download Offline Maps

You can’t always count on having wifi available. This is especially useful for road trips, but necessary during all types of travel.

 

56. Keep Toiletries Within Reach

You don’t want to be digging through your bag to find your toothbrush.

 

57. Don’t Pack Full-Size Toiletries

Even if you’re not flying, I recommend buying leak-proof travel bottles (these are are made of food-grade BPA-free silicone) and filling them with your favorite products.

 

58. Listen To Your Body

It’s easy to try to pack too much into a trip. Listen to your body and rest when you’re not feeling well — and remember to eat your veggies. 

 

59. Download Safety Apps

Popular safety apps include bSafe, ICE, Shake2Safety, Kitestring, Smart24x7 and many others. These apps offer features such as 24/7 monitoring, emergency alert, location-based services and can deliver instant or delayed messages. Many of these apps also worked with a locked phone screen and without internet access.

 

60. Keep Your Phone Charged

Our phones are used for so much these days that it’s important to keep them charged. Consider investing in a portable charger power bank. These are incredibly small and can fit in your pocket or bag. They can hold quite a bit of charge and are great for when you’re out exploring and do not have access to a standard charger.

 

61. Pack A Headlamp

Ever since I visited Nepal — where they have random power outages every single day — I’ve always kept a good headlamp in my bag. It’s come in handy more times than I can count. Having something hands-free versus a flashlight is helpful in many situations too.

 

62. Use No-Fee Bank And Credit Cards

Make sure to bring credit and debit cards that don’t charge a foreign transaction fee or an ATM fee. Those charges can add up especially now that we rarely use cash when traveling.

 

63. Use Facebook Groups To Meet New People

Facebook can be a great way to meet new people while on the road. Search for various groups such as “Things To Do in (City Name)” or “New To (City Name),” join a few groups, and post a request to meet up with other travelers.

 

64. Take Free Walking Tours

Walking tours can give you a good orientation and background of the city you are visiting. Do a search on Google or Facebook groups to find options for the destination you’re visiting.

 

65. Use Points And Miles For Free Travel

I always look for credit cards that will give me points and miles towards travel. I figure I’m going to be spending the money on my card anyway — and the points really do add up!

 
Love to Travel?
Want to know how to travel the world? I’ve put together a page full of useful travel resources with tips and tricks I’ve learned after consistently traveling for over ten years. Learn how I make a living while traveling, the best travel hacks that will save you money, how to find cheap flights and accommodation, how to choose the best carry-on luggage, how to choose the best travel camera, how to start a travel blog, and more.

 

Do you have any tips to add to this list? Share them in the comments!