Throughout my life I have been blessed with being able to go on family vacations and go to many places that only keep the fire of wanting to explore the world within me. I understand that many people do not get the chances that I do, but seeing that most college students will start traveling more, even a simple road trip or going abroad, there’s a lot to think about when you go from place to place. Here are some tips for how to actually travel:
1. Sit down and plan
Plan out your trip: when you leave, when you arrive, how long you’re going to stay, what you would like to do, what you need to do, are you meeting up with people, possible meals, when you go home. It’s tedious and annoying but it’s best to have an idea of what’s going on so you don’t waste time (especially if your holiday is short)—besides, you can always change your schedule but at least map it out so you're not running around not knowing what's happening.
2. If you’re going on a plane, book early as you can
Simple: it saves money. Also, airline sites secretly kinda keep track of what you purchase and how much you’re willing to pay and can bump the prices up just for you so use your browser in "incognito mode." It’s possible they will lower prices if you’re browsing as an “anonymous user.”
3. If you think you might need something, you’re not going to—don’t pack it
Minimize what you bring with you, whether it be the car, train, bus or airplane. It’s annoying to haul everything. If you’re traveling in a group, share shampoo or conditioner so you all don’t have to pack the same thing. The more space the better, and who wants to carry around something that weighs so much anyway?
4. Actually fold or roll up your clothing
Why? It saves space in your luggage. I bet you’ll come back with more than you came with so best chances are to make space in your case. Taking the extra time in your clothes makes all the difference. Folding is more useful for big trips, and rolling up clothes is better for smaller trips (from personal experience).
5. Have a hidden stash of money somewhere in your belongings
Note this money doesn't go in your normal wallet. In case of some emergency, having money elsewhere is really useful. If you lost your wallet and stuck in a city that you have no connections in, at least you know you can probably make your way back and have enough money to get food until you can figure out what to do. Besides, if you do run out and need more, it'll be there just in case.
6. Travel with good people
I get you don’t have a lot of say in this but it does make or break a trip. Traveling is stressful and you really shouldn’t be with a ton of people who only kinda make you happy but more pissed off. Like-minded people travel well together. Don't make anything more stressful than it needs to be. Even if you are with people you're not a fan of, at least be nice.
7. Keep your cool and breathe
As said traveling is stressful. There’s a lot to think about, a lot of anticipation and a lot of work. But remember you’re traveling probably to have fun or at least learn. Take advantage of the new situations you’re in and roll with the punches. You can’t control everything so take a deep breath and just keep going.
