I’m sure you have heard the phrase “You should travel more.” And while this may seem like a simple statement, it’s actually very good advice. Traveling has many benefits that can help you in your life. It expands your worldview, helps teach empathy and understanding of other cultures, provides mental stimulation through new experiences, helps develop skills for dealing with foreign languages, and many more. So why wouldn’t you want to travel more? Here are six tips and hacks to help you become a master traveler.
1. Pick The Right Credit Cards For Traveling
One of the easiest ways to save money when traveling is by using travel credit cards. These cards offer many benefits that you can take advantage of during the course of your travels such as earning double points on all purchases, offering zero percent APR on purchases, no annual fees, and more. However, different companies offer different benefits.
That’s why you should do your research to find a credit card that suits your needs. Simply go onto a search engine and type in [Insert credit card company] travel rewards. For example, if you wanted to find American Express cards with travel rewards, simply type in American Express Travel Rewards. This will provide links to all of the different credit cards they have available for this service.
2. Pack Lighter
Instead of packing everything that you think you may need into your bag, pack only what is absolutely necessary. You don’t want your bag weighing you down or becoming so cumbersome that it’s hard to walk around. Instead pack only the essentials, such as your laptop, camera, important documents, and only a few sets of clothes that can be mixed and matched to allow for a greater number of outfit options. You can also use vacuum bags to save space and reduce the bulk of your bag.
3. Get Lost Along The Way
Instead of following Google Maps or asking for directions, try getting lost. Wander around an area and explore it without the crutch of technology or a guidebook. You may find interesting food spots or niche shops that give you a better feel for the area rather than simply passing by them. You can also meet many interesting people while you are lost, some of whom may offer to show you around or give you some tips on the area.
4. Be Open To Strangers
The world is full of different types of people who come from all walks of life and have their own unique stories to tell. So instead of shutting them down when they come up to you and start talking, try being open to them. They may have a very interesting story that can provide insight into the area or into something that you’ve never thought about before. Also, because these people are locals, they might also be able to give you some tips on how to get around or where to go. And you never know, maybe you find a lifetime friend that way.
5. Be Adventurous
When traveling it’s easy to stick with the beaten path that everyone else is following, but if you do this then you’re really missing out. The best way for you to explore an area is actually by finding its outskirts and discovering what lies beyond your normal line of sight. You may find something interesting or find a new way of looking at an area. You might even discover a new favorite food from there! Getting lost is a great way to do this, so be sure to try it out.
6. Be Prepared
Now, traveling is not without its risks and hazards. There are many places in the world that may put you and your belongings in danger and even if they don’t there is always a risk of missing your flight due to traffic. So when you are traveling, always have a backup plan. If you are worried about getting to your destination on time, set up a hotel reservation ahead of time.
If you’re worried about getting lost, download a map to use beforehand. By having a backup plan in place, you’ll feel much more relaxed during your travels and it will show through everything that you do. Also, make sure to bring a travel insurance policy that will protect you in the case of any accidents, including medical expenses and coverage if your belongings are stolen.
Now that you know the different tips and hacks for becoming a master traveler, it’s time to put them into practice. Start by looking for a credit card with travel rewards benefits. Then, pack lightly and only bring the essentials with you. You can save space in your bag by using vacuum bags or packing clothes that can be mixed and matched. Get lost along the way and explore areas that you wouldn’t normally visit.
Be open to strangers and hear their stories – they may just offer some great insights about the area. Finally, always have a backup plan in place in case something goes wrong, and make sure to bring a travel insurance policy with you. By following these simple tips, you’ll be on your way to becoming a master traveler in no time!
Featured image: Unsplash (JESHOOTS.COM).
