Seven Things I've Learned About Traveling

 Recently, while looking at my first passport, I remembered that my first flight was in 1974. Since then, I’ve done some traveling in every way imaginable  (sort of ), including some travel on bullock carts. Here are some things I’ve learned about traveling. 

1. When you find a good deal, buy it

Sometimes, you may need to confirm your decision to travel sooner than you would like. Indecisive travel plans cause delays in the booking and bring your price higher. So, decide early, and book early.

2. Check, double-check, and re-check your travel details

Print out your ticket and confirm all your information. Make sure the way your name is written matches the ID you will be carrying with you. Confirm the date and time. A few days early, confirm the day and date of travel. If you are dealing with different time zones, make sure to check on the arrival date and local time.

I have made the mistake of showing up for travel on the wrong date and looked like a fool. I’ve missed flights due to going from one timezone to another, but not realizing the difference in time. Mobile phones have corrected that problem to some extent, but when you travel to other countries, you want to be extra careful.

3. Pack light and don’t fully unpack

The old saying is true: “Less luggage, more comfort.” Find creative ways to mix and match your clothes to reduce your load. Thanks to my tab, Kindle, and phone, I don’t have to carry books and papers like before.

I prefer not to unpack my suitcase fully at the location where I stay. Most of my things stay in my luggage. Its easier to put everything together and confirm that I have everything before I leave.

4. Don’t loot the hotels

Many have a tendency to take soap, toothbrushes, towels, and other convenience items from hotels. These items are simply convenience items for you to use. Emptying the place is not the appropriate thing to do.

5. Be generous

There are many ways of being generous. Smile and talk to people who work make your travel easier. Be less demanding and more understanding. Ask people their names and inquire about their work.

Even if your funds are limited, give tips according to what you can afford. Don’t avoid tipping simply because you have less. When you can, be more generous.

6. Re-confirm your pickup and drop off

Have a clear understanding of who will pick you up and drop you off. Make sure to get names, phone numbers, and any other information so you can communicate. Use email and text to communicate your arrival information. When traveling to different countries, text becomes more important than a phone call. They may not fully understand what you say over the phone, but they can understand your text message.

7. Take good reading material

Use your down time appropriately. Rather than a bother, see it as a blessing. Accept it as a time for reflection and reading. Keep a notebook with you as you read. Write down thoughts as you read. Somehow, the nature of reading changes when you travel. You understand things differently and more clearly. This may be because your mind is free of much of the daily worries that come with your job and other responsibilities.

* Need book recommendations on topics I write on? Visit http://www.barnabas.in/resources