Best Traveling Tips from a (self proclaimed) Professional Traveler (that's me!)

Traveling is apart of my job and with that comes therapy. I have traveled with my 3 kids, with my besties and by myself for over 20 years. Girls, work, and family trips are where it is at. I have traveled at the young age of 21 with myself and one of my best friend to Vegas every few months for 10 years to visit my now husband, countless trips to Eleuthera and Disney, and a good amount of girls trips! So I basically am convinced I am a self certified professional traveler at this point.

In my last 20 years of traveling, I have learned such great tips to make traveling less crazy and stressful. Being unprepared causes stress, so making sure I always pack early and check my list a ton of times to make sure you are prepared for the perfect beach vacation! The worst thing I have done, multiple times, is start packing hours before it is time to leave for the aiport. I always overpack when I do this, and stress myself out!

Here are my tips on traveling stress free, and make you the most prepared! It is always the best being extra prepared and ready to go!!

Pre-Trip Planning:

• Passport and Visa Essentials:

  • Double-check your passport's expiration date. Many countries require at least six months of validity. If your passport is expired or close to expiration, there is places to get your passports that day!

  • Research visa requirements for your destination and apply well in advance.

  • When traveling make sure you always have a special place for your identification. I swear in the airport I take out my passport at least 8 times, and always forget where I left it.

• Travel Insurance:

  • Invest in comprehensive travel insurance to cover unexpected events like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage. We personally offer travel insurance when you book directly with us!!

• Financial Preparations:

  • Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid card blocks.

  • Carry a mix of payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and some local currency. Use cash where it is only accepted and credit or debit cards where they are accepted.

  • Research exchange rates and consider using travel-friendly credit cards with no foreign transaction fees.

• Packing Smart:

  • Make a list and check it twice! Create a packing list to avoid forgetting essentials.

  • Packing Cubes are my best friend while traveling. You just put them in the hotel drawers, and they keep your clothing neat and clean! They help maximize space! My favorite packing cubes are:

    https://www.stoneycloverlane.com/products/packing-cubes-set-of-5?variant=39962143129680&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_content=171497283570&utm_term=&utm_campaign=Google-Shopping-Brand-US&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAACRESqcmL5hJOW2tyQbOQRYZGIHqB&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI-cmStLC3jAMVM0X_AR0btA3oEAQYASABEgIXVfD_BwE

  • Throw in laundry pods (plastic container) and dryer sheets (ziplock bags). If you ever need to do laundry this will help and save you some money! This way when packing light you can easily wash clothing in the sink or run to the laundromat!

  • Pack light and roll up your clothing!

  • Carry essential medications, travel-sized toiletries, and a first-aid kit.

  • Pack extra clothing in your carry on! I have been stuck overnight in a city without my luggage, and let me tell you! It is the WORST! Since this happened I have always made sure to pack toiletries and clothing with me.

  • Make copies of important documents, and store digital copies in cloud storage.

  • Buy apple air tags and put them in your luggage! Helps if there is every an issue with your luggage! They are so reasonably priced, and always give me a piece of mind when traveling!

    https://www.amazon.com/Apple-MX542LL-A-AirTag-Pack/dp/B0D54JZTHY/ref=asc_df_B0D54JZTHY?mcid=c80228d8ce7d35cd8779a61023136143&hvocijid=2063261337879219402-B0D54JZTHY-&hvexpln=73&tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=721245378154&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=2063261337879219402&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9003603&hvtargid=pla-2281435175938&psc=1

• Research your destination:

  • Learn about local customs, laws, and emergency numbers.

  • Download offline maps and translation apps.

  • Research local food, and restaurants.

During Your Travels:

• Stay Safe and Aware:

  • Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables.

  • Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas.

  • Share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member.

  • Learn basic phrases in the local language.

• Embrace Local Culture:

  • Try local cuisine and explore local markets.

  • See if they have a local Facebook page and join it! Eleuthera personally has a Facebook page called Eleuthera Forum.

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

  • Be open to new experiences and interact with locals.

• Stay Connected:

  • WhatsAPP is free and a great way to connect! Make sure you download it before traveling!

  • Inform someone at home of your travels, and keep in contact. Share your location!

  • Download useful travel apps for navigation, translation, and local information.

• Be Flexible:

  • Travel plans can change, so be prepared to adapt.

  • Allow for extra time for delays or unexpected events.

  • Maintain a positive attitude and embrac

    
    

    

    
    

    e the unexpected.

Did I miss a tip? Share your traveling tips below!