Getting Started On Your Travel Plans:
Here are some travel mistakes I see travelers make all the time. Avoid these mistakes to make your trip that much easier and stress-free. Just take some time to reflect on your trip, where you plan to go and what (if any) activities you’ll be enjoying.
Like most people planning a trip, right before you may begin to overthink what to bring. Many will begin to add more items at the last-minute making packing a bit more stressful. Here are some tips to consider when packing for your trip.
Not checking your Passport:
Specifically, not making sure your passport is valid. Passports have an expiration date so make sure that your passport is up to date. If your passport only has 6 months left before expiring then go and get it renewed to avoid any passport issues.
Not checking if your destination needs a Visa:
Do your homework and make sure if your chosen destination requires a Visa before you leave. In some cases it make take a couple of weeks to months to secure a Visa.
Not having a plan:
This is the worst possible thing you can do when traveling overseas. It all starts simply by checking the weather in every place you plan to visit and packing appropriately. The last thing you want to do is NOT pack a raincoat for a season known for being very wet. If it’s very cold, bring gloves, insulated socks and a beanie. This also includes booking any hotel / hostels stays you may need for a layover.
Hot Tip: When booking a hotel or hostel check the reviews, this simple task will save you time and frustration.
Failing to respect the local dress code:
Ladies, if you plan to travel to the Middle East leave the tank tops at home. You’ll want to bring clothing that covers the shoulders to make you more “modest”. If anything, go onto YouTube and watch videos about the country you plan to travel to. Also, the same rings true if you like visiting old gothic churches…. shoulders need to be covered. I myself was wearing a hat and the usher promptly reminded me to remove it. It’s all about respecting the culture.
Forgetting the carry-on allowance:
Generally speaking, the size of your carry-on typically should be 22 inches (height) x 14 inches x 9 inches. For some of you doing an expedition-type trip where you require a large 60-liter to 70-liter backpack that will clearly be checked. Just be mindful of your carry-on and check with the airline! I took into account you’ll probably need an idea of which backpacks are best – Top 10 Minimalist Backpacks is your best resource in finding the best carry-on bag for you.
Be intentional with clothing:
No need to bring multiple jackets, layering is key here for the cold winter months. You can add layers when it’s cold and remove them as it gets warmer. Traveling with a huge down jacket may not be that wise when the temperature is only 40 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s best to pack a puffer jacket and layer that with a good sweater and or a puffer vest.
Not using packing cubes:
If you want to make your life easier then I highly recommend using packing cubes. They are designed to compartmentalize and organize all your clothing while traveling. You can read more about these in my product reviews. Get the best tips on which packing cubes offer the most bang for your buck – Top 5 Packing Cubes.
Over packing:
If you’re traveling for a mere 9 days then DO NOT pack 12 days’ worth of clothing. Over packing is always something I see constantly with travelers lugging around a huge roller. When I travel to simply pack what I need and use the hostel laundry room to wash my clothes.
If you’re traveling for 8 days during the winter you can simply bring 3 pairs of jeans / pants and save loads of space. With shirts I will bring 8 shirts most likely but you may want to consider getting some merino wool shirts since wool has antibacterial properties. They require less washings allowing you to pack less.
Not alerting your bank:
Always alert your bank before going on your trip! Your bank may freeze your account because you used card in Istanbul for a meal and they think it’s ‘suspicious activity’ I always tell my bank which countries I plan to visit and on what days.
Hot Tip: Also let your cell phone provider know you’re traveling so you don’t get hit with roaming charges. They can offer you a week of enhanced data service for your trip.
Failing to double check your itinerary: 
This includes confirming your airline tickets, tour plans and hotel. Nothing is worse then finding out at the last minute that something was cancelled and you didn’t realize of the cancellation. Confirm with the airline by calling and checking the alerts, call or email the tour company to make sure the departure date is guaranteed. Finally make sure the hotel / hostel you booked is still secured.
Items You’d Never Think You Need Overseas:
Zip lock bags:
I usually have some zip lock bags in my backpack as a ‘just in case” as they take up no space so this is a no-brainer.
Dryer sheets:
Pack a couple of these in a zip lock and take them with you. These will come in handy for those extended stays keeping your clothes smelling fresh.
Copies of your passport and itinerary:
Always make paper copies of your passport, VISA’s, driver’s license, hostel / hotel itinerary with addresses and telephone numbers. You want to store those documents in your carry-on just in case you lose your luggage. If you wish you can also take photos of everything on your phone. Don’t ignore this part, you simply never know. Hot Tip: Don’t forget to also make copies of your emergency contact’s info. Make sure that person also knows where you’re traveling to and when.
Bug spray:
Traveling to a tropical paradise is awesome until the mosquitos smell your sweet blood and you become the buffet. You can learn more about what works best here – 8 Essential Items For Budget Travelers
Day pack:
Chances are you’ll be doing a lot of walking so a day pack will come in handy. They’re great for carrying your camera, book, sunglasses, sunblock, water bottle just about anything. I prefer a cross-body sling bag, small enough where they don’t get in the way. I have a great solution for the perfect day pack on my Top 10 Minimalist Backpacks no need to lug around a huge backpack.
HDMI cable:
I suggest bringing this on long trips. If you want to wind down at the hotel for a couple of nights and watch your favorite streaming show simply connect this to your laptop and hotel TV. If you’re wondering about tech items you may need on your next trip read my post on 7 Best Travel Tech Essentials.
Summary:
As you can see it’s easy to avoid common travel mistakes with just a little planning. My main goal with these tips when traveling overseas to make life easier. An added benefit is that I can lighten my backpack saving money for not having to checked a bag.
