I found the Internet article called 49 Biggest Travel Mistakes as reported on the Internet by Espresso on November 23, 2016, very interesting. Maybe you will too!
FAILING TO LEARN ABOUT THE LOCAL CUSTOMS BEFORE LEAVING
Before heading to another continent, it’s smart to research the habits and customs of your destination. In many European countries, it’s a good idea to dress conservatively when visiting religious monuments or even some high-end boutiques. Certain words and gestures have different meanings in different places and can make you seem contemptuous or get you into hot water.
OVERLOADING YOUR LUGGAGE
When it comes time to pack, make sure to only bring the essentials. You know you’ll want to bring back a few souvenirs, so don’t stuff your suitcase with clothes you probably won’t even wear. Put your outfits together in advance with versatile items that can be mixed and matched, and limit yourself to two pairs of shoes.
RELYING ON THE WEATHER FORECAST
There’s no harm in checking the weather in advance, but it’s probably going to change by the time you get there. Don’t rely on the forecast to dictate your itinerary or the clothes you bring. Be smart and plan several options to make sure your trip doesn’t get ruined by bad weather.
LIVING LIKE YOU’RE STILL AT HOME
The reason you travel is to explore new cultures and ways of living in foreign lands—so don’t try to faithfully recreate your regular routine while you’re away. Instead of opting for the same meals that you have at home, dare to try local specialties and, when you’re out to eat, be sure to ask your server for advice.
STAYING GLUED TO YOUR SMARTPHONE
While on vacation, you’re supposed to disconnect from your daily life, especially your smartphone. Nothing’s worse than letting your magical moments be marred by an annoying email or bad news from work.
RELYING ON AN ONLINE RESERVATION SITE WITHOUT DOING YOUR OWN RESEARCH
There are many websites that can help you make your hotel reservations—luckily, most of them are honest, but a few are a trap for travelers. Many of them haven’t even visited the hotels to validate the claims of the properties they suggest—they’re just interested in collecting their commission.
RENEWING YOUR PASSPORT AT THE LAST MINUTE
One of the most common travel errors is forgetting to check the expiration date of your passport. To enter most foreign countries, you need a passport that’s valid for a minimum of six months from when you arrive.
FORGETTING TO ADVISE YOUR BANK OF YOUR TRAVELS
Nothing’s more annoying than trying to pay for something with your credit or debit card in a foreign country, only to have it refused. To prevent your bank from blocking your card as a precaution, let them know about your travels before you go.
FORGETTING ELECTRICAL ADAPTERS
When planning to visit a foreign country, especially in Europe, it’s important to learn what type of electrical outlet is used there, along with the voltage. If you forget, you might not be able to use your electronics, or they may even get damaged. For larger devices like hairdryers and electric razors, get an adjustable converter to avoid a power overload.
ARRIVING AT THE AIRPORT AT THE LAST MINUTE
It’s a good idea to arrive at the airport two to three hours before your flight. Between getting to the airport, checking your bags, and waiting to get through security, time really flies. To avoid being late for your flight, be sure to give yourself some wiggle room.
NOT BOOKING YOUR HOTEL IN ADVANCE
The excitement of jetting off on a whim can make you feel like you’re going on a great adventure, but when night falls and you’re tired, it’s probably better to know where you’re going to spend the night so you don’t end up sleeping on a park bench under the stars!
FORGETTING TO BUY TRAVEL INSURANCE
Many travelers choose to skip this step to save a little cash. But when you’re in trouble, travel insurance can get you out of a tough situation in case of illness or serious injury. Many countries don’t have the same types of health plans and you may find yourself saddled with a big hospital bill if you chose to travel without insurance.
FORGETTING TO MAKE COPIES OF YOUR PASSPORT AND OTHER IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS
It’s always a good idea to make a copy of your important documents and keep them with you—like your passport, travel itinerary, hotel reservations, and copies of your credit cards. That way, if your originals are stolen from you or taken from your hotel room, you’ll always have proof of the documents you need to get home.
CRASHING AS SOON AS YOU ARRIVE
In countries with different time zones, fatigue sets in quickly on the day you arrive. That said, try to resist the temptation to take a nap when you get to your hotel room. Napping will only make it harder to adjust to the local time, plus it’ll likely draw out the adjustment period. Get some exercise, stay hydrated, and eat meals at the local time to get your body acclimatized.
FORGETTING TO CHANGE YOUR PHONE PLAN
Don’t leave home without changing your phone plan. Depending on what country you’re traveling to, you might end up with a big bill at the end. You may not be glued to your phone the whole time, but you might need to use it in an emergency or to send news to your family. Above all, don’t forget to turn off your mobile data or put your phone in airplane mode.
REFUSING TO ASK FOR DIRECTIONS
Not all locals see tourists as people to steer clear of. If you’re lost in a new city, ask for directions from a local. Most of the time, they’ll be happy to help you and you’ll avoid hours of frustration, going in circles while trying to reach your destination. Just try not to disturb them if they’re on the phone or in a rush.
FORGETTING TO PUT LIQUIDS IN PLASTIC BAGS
You can’t board a plane with bottles of liquid exceeding 3.4 ounces, and they must be in transparent, sealed bags. There’s no way to get around this because the security agents won’t let you pass through if you don’t follow this rule.
PACKING METAL OBJECTS IN YOUR CARRY-ON
You won’t be making any friends at security if you leave metal objects in your carry-on. They’ll set off the metal detector, and they’ll likely be confiscated if they’re blunt objects. Leave your tweezers and your eyelash curler in your toiletries bag—in your checked luggage—so you can breeze through security without any awkward moments with the agents.
EXCHANGING YOUR MONEY AT THE AIRPORT
You’re guaranteed to pay a higher rate if you decide to exchange your money at the airport, not to mention wasting your time. Instead, see if your bank has any special rates to maximize the amount you’ve decided to spend on your vacation. Do the same when you get home so you can deposit the remaining cash directly into your bank account.
LEAVING YOUR WALKING SHOES AT HOME
When you’re discovering a new city, it’s usually best to do it on foot so you can visit as many sites as possible. Having good shoes that are made for walking long distances is a must and will help you avoid sore feet at the end of the day.
NOT KNOWING A SINGLE WORD IN THE LOCAL LANGUAGE
You’re not expected to speak the local language fluently before you leave, but you should know a few polite phrases. You’d be surprised what kinds of doors can be opened with a simple “hello” and “thank you.” You can also bring a phrase book to help you ask for information once you arrive.
STAYING IN THE TOURIST AREAS
There’s much more to see than the Eiffel Tower in Paris or the Trevi Fountain in Rome. While some attractions are a must-see, be sure to get off the beaten path. Don’t be afraid to get a little lost and go on an adventure far from the tourist areas. It’s the best way to live like a local, and you just might make some amazing discoveries that will stay in your memory forever.
SPENDING THE ENTIRE TIME BEHIND A CAMERA
The most beautiful moments of your vacation happen before your eyes, but you might miss them if you’re always behind a lens. Yes, you want to immortalize every moment, but if you try to fit everything into a frame, you run the risk of missing half the highlights of your trip.
FOLLOWING YOUR ITINERARY TO THE LETTER
There’s nothing wrong with wanting to be prepared and planning an action-packed journey, but it’s likely that things will need to change once you’re there. Traveling in a strange land always has its share of surprises—it’s not necessary to follow your original plan to the letter. Make compromises and don’t hesitate to change the parts of your itinerary that seem less interesting than others.
DRINKING TOO MUCH
Having a drink helps you relax, but it also makes you less alert. Especially if you’re traveling alone, try to keep your alcohol intake in check to stay sharp. Once you’re drunk, you have a better chance of being taken advantage of. The same goes for illegal drugs.
FORGETTING TO GET THE RIGHT VACCINES
To visit certain high-risk countries, travelers need to get vaccines six weeks before their departure. If you plan a stop in Africa or South America, you must get a yellow fever vaccine and have proof of vaccination on hand. Without this form, you can be refused entry and even be put in quarantine.
MISSING THE MAIN ATTRACTIONS
While trying not to look like a tourist, you risk missing the top attractions and most significant monuments along the way. Swallow your pride and play the game a bit by visiting the historic sites and taking a few pictures. There’s a good chance you won’t have another opportunity to visit the top of the Empire State Building or stand outside the gates of Buckingham Palace.
FORGETTING TO CHECK IF YOU NEED A VISA
To visit certain countries, a passport may not be enough and sometimes a visa is required to stay for more than a month. Some countries, like Russia and Algeria, always require a visa to enter. Don’t take the risk—get informed!
FORGETTING TO DOUBLE-CHECK THE TIME OF YOUR FLIGHT
It’s the mistake you think you’ll never make, until you find yourself running at top speed through the terminal to reach your gate. Both the night before and on the day of your flight, be sure to double- and even triple-check the time of your flight and check the carrier’s website for any delays or cancellations. Many airlines even offer to send alerts and reminders to your mobile device for free.
NOT LEAVING ENOUGH TIME BETWEEN CONNECTING FLIGHTS
If your air travel plans have a connection, it’s strongly recommended that you leave at least two hours between the arrival of your first flight and the departure of your second. With busy skies, unforeseen weather conditions, and long lines at security, it’s better to leave a bit more time so you don’t miss your plane.
TRYING TO CRAM TOO MUCH INTO ONE TRIP
When you’re visiting a place for the first time, it’s normal to want to maximize the experience by seeing everything. But a hectic itinerary may prevent you from enjoying every moment, especially if you don’t even have time to catch your breath!
TRAVELING WITH THE WRONG PEOPLE
Just because you’re best friends doesn’t mean you’re made to travel together. Make sure you have the same goals and especially the same vision for your trip. Nothing’s worse than finding yourself in an unknown city with someone who only wants to hang out by the hotel pool while you want to go off on adventures—or vice versa.
NOT BOOKING A TAXI IN ADVANCE
After spending hours in a confined space with a bunch of strangers, one of the final straws for many travelers is having to haul heavy bags a long way. Simplify your life and book a taxi online to pick you up at the airport. Many companies offer a ride-sharing option where you can split the fare with up to four people.
RELYING TOO MUCH ON TRAVEL GUIDES
There are many travel guides for travelers who want to learn about the country they’re planning to visit. Even though they offer practical tools, especially maps of the tourist areas, don’t rely on them blindly. Their lists of must-see spots are often super touristy and the information gets outdated quickly. If you do decide to use one, make sure you have the most recent edition.
ATTRACTING THIEVES BY SHOWING OFF
It’s a well-known fact that many countries have their share of thieves who won’t hesitate to take your money. Don’t tempt them by showing off your high-end goods, especially your mobile gadgets. If you have to make a transaction with cash, close your wallet quickly and never keep it in your hands.
UNDERESTIMATING THE DISTANCE FROM YOUR HOTEL TO DOWNTOWN
Have you fallen so in love with a hotel or an apartment that you can already picture yourself enjoying your morning coffee there? If the look of the place you’re going to visit is non-negotiable, its location relative to the main attractions should be even more important! Otherwise you risk wasting too much time and energy in transit if you have to cross the entire city to get to your destination. Instead, choose a location that lets you maximize your time.
FORGETTING TO VERIFY YOUR CHECK-IN TIME AT THE HOTEL
Hate waiting at the hotel reception desk with all your bags? Find out when you can check into your room ahead of time. Many hotels will let you check in earlier than the posted time, letting you get settled sooner.
TRAVELING DURING HIGH SEASON
Just because everyone else is traveling during the holidays doesn’t mean you should too. Traveling during high season automatically means higher prices, both on your plane ticket and your hotel room. Try to book your vacations for the shoulder seasons and take advantage of lower prices—so you can spend more on other things while you’re there.
RELYING BLINDLY ON YOUR TRAVEL AGENCY
With the Internet increasingly taking over the travel industry, travel agencies are always looking for new ways to keep their clients—which means they might not always be straightforward with you. Often agencies have deals with different hotels and airlines that encourage them to offer you promotions that are actually more advantageous to them. Be sure to do your own research instead of just relying on your travel agent!
FORGETTING TO MENTION YOUR DIETARY RESTRICTIONS TO THE AIRLINE
Airline food may not be known for being top quality—and sometimes it’s downright terrible. That said, they might be able to serve you a meal that follows your dietary restrictions. Simply contact your airline’s customer service department by phone or online.
NEGLECTING TO READ THE LOCAL PAPER
If you’re lucky enough to understand the language of the country you’re visiting, local newspapers offer a wealth of information. They can let you know about events that are taking place during your visit or keep you up to speed on the political climate and cultural life of the country. You might even find some tips on local restaurants and boutiques.
BELIEVING EVERYTHING YOU READ ON ONLINE TRAVEL FORUMS
Just because an online travel forum gives a bad review about a destination or a hotel doesn’t mean you should avoid it at all costs. Try visiting several different sites before making a decision—you’d be surprised how much the comments can vary from one site to another!
FORGETTING TO RESEARCH TIPPING RATES
Many travelers have no idea how to tip in other countries. It can be a delicate issue because some places expect 15% to 20% of the bill, while others take it as an insult. That’s why it’s better to look it up before you leave so you don’t get into trouble and especially to make sure you have enough cash for the duration of your trip.
NOT IDENTIFYING YOUR LUGGAGE
You’re probably not the only person on your flight with a medium-sized black suitcase. Think before you go and add some color to your bag so you can spot it from afar.
ENDING UP AT THE WRONG AIRPORT
You think you’re totally prepared—you’ve got your passport and your boarding pass—until you double-check your ticket and realize you’re on the way to the wrong airport. To prevent this kind of catastrophe, double-check which airport you’re flying out of a few days before your departure. Many cities have more than one airport—London alone has six—so it’s easy to mix them up!
FAILING TO USE A MAP OR GPS
You might think you have a great sense of direction, but you’ll probably get lost once or twice during your travels. To avoid spending a significant amount of time going around in circles, make a city map your best friend. If you’re renting a car, make sure it comes with a GPS.
ONLY LOOKING AT THE PHOTOS WHEN BOOKING A HOTEL
It’s easy for a hotel to put a few pretty pictures online to attract tourists. So before you book, make sure those photos are the real deal—research the location on several different sites and read the comments from people who’ve visited to verify the hotel’s quality and, above all, its authenticity.
LEAVING WITHOUT LETTING ANYONE KNOW WHERE YOU’RE GOING
Taking off on an adventure in a foreign country sounds exciting, but it can easily turn dangerous if no one knows where you are. Make sure at least one person knows where to find you and the approximate date of your return. This information could get you out of a jam if you get into trouble or need help.
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