Traveling is always an adventure, but each year brings new lessons to help make the next trip even better. From international hacks to everyday travel essentials, here are the top lessons we learned from a year of traveling that can help you have smoother and more enjoyable trips.
1. International Hotels Have Quirks
If you’re traveling abroad, be ready for a few surprises when it comes to accommodations. Many international hotels feature smaller beds and rooms than what you might be used to, so plan accordingly if you’re sharing. Some also require you to use your room key to power the lights—an eco-friendly system that might catch you off guard. Always check with the front desk if you’re unsure how something works.
2. Get Tickets in Advance
One of the best lessons we learned is the importance of booking tickets ahead of time, especially for international excursions or popular attractions. Many places sell out weeks in advance, and purchasing early ensures you won’t miss out. Plus, it can save you money and time standing in long lines!
3. Punctuality is Key
Being on time—or better yet, early—is crucial for excursions, tours, and activities. Some companies have strict policies and won’t offer refunds if you’re late. We learned this the hard way by missing an activity after being only 3 minutes late. Set alarms and plan your day carefully to ensure you’re where you need to be on time.
4. Use Google Translate
The Google Translate app has been a lifesaver, especially its camera feature, which can translate menus, signs, and other text instantly. It’s especially helpful when traveling to places where English isn’t widely spoken. Download the language packs offline to ensure you can use the app even without Wi-Fi.
5. Pack Light, But Smart
Packing light is always a good idea, but it doesn’t mean leaving essentials behind. Focus on versatile clothing and always include layers. Lightweight sweaters, scarves, and jackets can adapt to changing weather and help you avoid overpacking bulky items. Also, you are going to want to leave room for souvenirs and items you collect along the way.
6. Leave Room for Flexibility
It’s easy to plan every hour of your trip, but leaving room for flexibility can make a world of difference. Spontaneous discoveries, extra rest, or unexpected opportunities are part of what makes travel exciting.
7. Always Pack Medications
Being exposed to a different climate or environment can have the potential of putting you under the weather if you are not prepared. Whether it’s your prescription medication or basics like pain relievers and allergy pills, always have a travel-friendly stash on hand. You don’t want to scramble to find a pharmacy in an unfamiliar place, especially if language barriers are an issue.
8. Don’t Underestimate Layers
Packing layers isn’t just a tip for colder destinations—it’s a universal rule. Airplanes, restaurants, and attractions can have wildly different temperatures, so being prepared with cardigans, scarves, or lightweight jackets is always a smart move.
9. Take Time to Rest
Travel can be exhausting, and it’s important to give yourself time to recharge. Whether it’s a quiet afternoon at a café, a nap at your hotel, or an early night in, rest will help you enjoy the rest of your trip even more.
10. Stay Open to Learning
The most important travel tip? Always be willing to learn something new! Whether it’s embracing local customs, practicing a new language, or adapting to unexpected situations, staying curious and flexible will enrich every trip.
Traveling is full of lessons, and each trip makes you a little more prepared for the next adventure. From international quirks to packing smarter, these lessons we learned from a year of traveling have helped us navigate the world with less stress and more joy. We hope they inspire and guide your future travels, too!
Where will you go next? Make sure to check out how to plan your perfect trip on a strict budget.
