Once you commit to a life of travel, you can expect to experience several inconveniences that can mar your travel experience. But in most cases, the best solution to such complications is adequate preparation. Whether you’re planning your first trip or consider yourself a seasoned traveler, you can always make your next trip a better experience than the previous one. Although you cannot avoid every eventuality, you can avoid some common travel complications with the help of these tips.
1. Losing your way
There are few things more frustrating and even scarier than getting lost in a foreign country. Most people may have a story about getting lost at some point. But while you may chuckle at it now, it’s never a fun experience. Unfortunately, you can get lost anywhere, even if you’re armed with a map.
Thankfully, modern technology has made traveling easier without losing your way. Google Maps appears to be the most popular option for many travelers, especially as you can download your route and access it offline. But don’t be afraid to always ask for directions from local police if you can’t trust your map.
2. Mismanaging your health
Health is a huge concern for travelers. This might sound a bit odd, but many tourists face many problems when attempting to seek medical assistance abroad, not to mention that you’ll have to pay for your medical expenses out of pocket in most cases. One reason why many tourists have issues with accessing medical assistance may have to do with a lack of awareness about how to make use of their health insurance policies.
To avoid this, it’s advisable to get the appropriate medical insurance cover before you set off. Beyond that, take the time to know exactly how to use your insurance when you need it, as that will save you a lot of time and money. Carrying a travel first aid kit can also prove beneficial. Also, take the time to research your destination’s COVID protocols and get all needed vaccination passes before you leave.
3. Missed and delayed flights
Delayed or missed flights are some of the most common travel issues. The best way to avoid missing your flight is to give yourself more than enough time to get to the airport, preferably a couple of hours earlier. It’s best to spend an extra hour waiting for your flight than missing it entirely. Also, the TSA recommends making it to your airport two hours before your arrival time.
While delayed flights may be more difficult to avoid, try booking only with airlines with a good track record of low delay percentages.
4. Scammers and thieves
Getting mugged by thieves or falling for scammers can happen even to the smartest travelers. And reporting to the police may not always be the most satisfying solution.
Therefore, book your activities and reservations online with trusted service providers to avoid this. For example, if you want to go on the Gatlinburg Zip Line, you can make reservations on Smoky Mountain Ziplines’s website. This way, you can avoid being scammed by fake sites. Regarding muggers, refrain from walking alone in unsafe places and ungodly hours, overdrinking with unfamiliar people, and handling too much money or looking flashy in public.
