TIPS
ONE
Always bring twice as much cash as you think you will need. Ya never know when you will get stuck in a pickle.
TWO
Don’t put anything off until the last day of your trip. It won’t get done.
THREE
If you're really pinching pennies, don’t pay extra for seats on your flights. Almost every time I travel, I get to my gate about an hour early and ask the gate agent if I can move seats. Usually they are very friendly and will move you if they can (or at least get you close so you can switch with someone!).
FOUR
Pack a separate bag for wet clothes in case you have to pack them for your return flight.
FIVE
Fast-drying towels. They work and are super pack-able.
SIX
Get on local time fast to avoid jet lag. No napping after a red-eye flight! You’ll have a much better trip if you push through the first few days and get adjusted to local time.
SEVEN
Make a plan, but stay flexible. I always plan enough of an itinerary to make sure I don’t waste any of my precious travel time, but I am not so set on it that I can’t go with the flow if I hear of a cool suggestion from a local or stumble across an amazing town I want to explore.
EIGHT
Invest in a universal adapter and a portable power source.
NINE
Research the country’s “norms” for tipping service staff, saying hello, and etc.
TEN
Put necessities (toothbrush, face wash, chargers, light jacket, etc.) in your carry-on bag. If your luggage gets lost you want to have enough to get you by for a few days.
ELEVEN
When renting a car, especially in another country, never let the gas get below half full. Sometimes the next gas station is further away or harder to find than you might think.