My Top 15 Travel Tips

1. When selecting your international flight be sure to select one with a minimum of 4-6 hour connection or layover.

This allows ample time should there be an aircraft delay, baggage delay or even a gate change. Some airports require you to go through security again along with the rechecking on checked luggage. 

2. After you have selected your destination be sure to check on Visa requirements. In recent months a few countries have begun requiring them.

 As of April 2025 Brazil now requires a travel visa and a few other requirements for entry. The UK is also in the mix of requiring a visa starting this year. 

3. Double check your passport expiration date, as many countries now require six months of remaining validity. 

4. Use travel.state.gov to check the “ Travel Advisory” levels.

• Level 1 Exercise Normal Precautions 

• Level 2 Exercise Increased Caution

• Level 3 Reconsider Travel

• Level 4 Do Not Travel

5. When using a credit abroad use one with no foreign transaction fees and select the local currency for payment to avoid paying DCC fees for converting and better exchange rates.

6. Learn greetings and frequently used phrases in the language of your destination before your visit.

7. Purchase foreign currency if possible before you trip to get a better exchange rate than the airport. 

Cash comes in handy for tips, and markets that don’t accept credit cards. 

8. Consider taking a hard shell carry on rolling bag for your travels.

It is estimated that over 100,000 bags are lost or mishandled daily.

9. Plan rest days while you are abroad. This is especially smart for destinations that have a heavy time zone change.

10. Award Booking tip with points: book one ways instead of round trip for greater flexibility.

With award bookings you sometimes can find a better class closer to your departure or return. By booking one ways you can easily change each leg independently of each other without canceling the entire reservation.

11. Stay alert, watch out for pick pockets and opportunists. Consider using a money belt to house your passport and cash. Be mindful of your cellphone as well when in crowded places.

12. Pack your emergency just in case meds to help with allergic reactions and bug bites, travelers diarrhea and normal aches and pains.

13. Download offline maps to use in a pinch, especially when driving or walking around on your own. 

14. Use Credit Cards with varying "travel protections" that can save you money during trip interruptions. Also, certain cards carry CDW insurance for rental car reservations.

    
    

15. Finally, be flexible! Have fun and don't forget to take it all in and be up for sudden changes due to weather and unforseen circumstances!

    
    
    
    

My list of tips continues to grow the more I travel, especially with young kids in tow. Hopefully you will find these somewhat useful for your adventures ahead.

Travel On!

See You on Our Next Adventure