Eight Unique Travel Tips


I have traveled extensively over the last twenty years and have compiled a list of unique travel tips that can help the newest traveler or even the most experienced traveler.  I find these tips make my trips more enjoyable – why not give them a try!

  1. Bottled water can be expensive and a pain to purchase during trips.  I’ve started carrying a water purifier that I can attach to almost any sink faucet.  It is pretty small (I carry it in a small Ziploc bag) and you can even bring the adapter to fit it to non-standard faucets.  Simply attach the purifier to a faucet – fill up your water bottles and voila – you have fresh, pure water at your disposal.  When you are finished, remove the purifier, shake the water out and wrap in paper towel before placing back in your Ziploc bag.  So easy and so convenient (not to mention – environmentally friendly!).

  2. My husband and I have switched to eating our larger meal at lunch – instead of dinner.  Lunch menus are much less expensive and we find it’s much easier on our waistline than eating a heavy meal and then heading to bed!  In the evening, we’ll often share a salad and appetizers – it saves money too!

  3. Don’t succumb to room service – it’s overpriced and you have to pay hefty delivery fees to the staff.  Instead, ask the hotel front desk for a list of local restaurants that deliver.  You’ll get to taste some great local food and save a few bucks too!

  4. Always carry small amounts of local currency in small bills that you can use for tipping.  It also works great for taxicabs so that you have exactly the amount for your fare and your tip.

  5. Never use the hotel phone for long distance calls.  Hotels charge exorbitant long distance rates.  Instead, find a pay phone in the hotel and use your calling card.  Alternatively, purchase a calling card in the country you are visiting – you will save tons over the hotels rates.

  6. Purchase snacks at a local grocery store or bring some with you.  Let’s face it – vending machines are a rip off and often the food is stale.  Instead, pack a few packages of your favorite chips or other snacks so that when the urge to snack hits – you are prepared.  If you don’t want to bring food with you, visit a local grocery store where you can pick up treats for a fraction of the cost of vending machines.

  7. When you arrive at your destination, head over to the information desk at the airport (often located near the baggage claim area).  You’ll find tons of brochures on activities, restaurants and hotels.  Oftentimes, they will have coupons and discounts to help save you money on activities and food.  The personnel working the counter can also provide a plethora of information to help you plan your trip.

  8. Bring a small blank notebook with you in your purse or carryon.  Use it to record information about your activities, list important phone numbers, write about your trip etc.  When you come home, the notes in it will be a great reference source when are planning your second trip back!

Posted by on 01/14 at 10:58 AM

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