Sometimes people forget what kind of undertaking traveling is. They seem to think about it as an extended holiday, but if you really want to get off the beaten track and see a country for what it really is you need to take heed and really make time for some in-depth and wide-ranging research. If you don’t, you could end up in trouble at the far end of the spectrum or just not have the time you envisaged in the best-case scenario.
Whatever type of traveling you intend to do, whether going up into the wild with a tent or traveling an entire continent, you need to be prepared. Some people are more inclined to do this than others.
Some people just like to wing things, but winging such a large undertaking isn’t by no means advisable. There are many tips out there that can help you get on the right track.
The tips below are meant to give you the best start possible.
Make Sure You Plan In Some Chill Time
Traveling isn’t always all fun and games. It can take its toll. There are long bouts of transportation. Nights spent in questionable accommodation, or no accommodation at all. Wherever you are, and wherever you’re planning to go, you must make sure there is some down time. The way you relax is ultimately up to you, but just spending some time by a pool or in the local spa can drain the stress away, leaving you ready to hit the road once more.
Traveling is by no means the same as a de-stressing vacation, but you just have to make sure you spend a little bit of time taking some rest. You can even do this in keeping with the culture your making the effort to immerse yourself in. Plan it beforehand too so you know exactly what you’re doing and when.
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Take A Friend
It isn’t always an option, but if you can, traveling with a friend can make for a much better and more rounded experience. Sharing your time with others makes it a less lonely time and acts as a true bonding event. It’s also a lot safer. Two is always better than one. If something goes wrong they can get help. If you go missing or get lost they can call the police.
If you don’t take a friend, you have to think extra hard and do more research than you usually would to make sure all the routes and places you’re going to are safe.
Pack Bug Repellants
This depends on where you are going, but most places in Asia and Africa have problems with mosquitoes and other nasty bugs. You’ll be able to buy it out there, but it’s always better to take it with you to avoid any distress if there is none available. Look at where you are going and research what kinds of bugs there are in the area.
Take the good stuff. Preferably the repellant that comes in a cream or gel that you rub in instead of a spray, they can rub off too easily. A mosquito net can also help avoid miserable nights and itchy bumps the next day.
Be Contactable
It’s getting easier with the advent of technology but even now some places are hard to reach. Ensure you’ve got phone signal, and if you know you won’t make sure someone knows exactly where you are going.
If you’re going out away from civilization for an extended period, you might want to take a power pack for your phone too. If you lose your phone, have a contingency. You can buy a prepaid one for pretty cheap these days. It might be worth even taking one of these with you as a spare in your bag. Drop in from time to time with your family at home too. It’s easier said than done, but if you just give them an update every time you swap accommodation they’ll know where you are if something goes wrong. Besides, they’ll be worried about you anyway so see it as a common courtesy.
Know Where Not To Go
You’ll want to see all of the places you’re going too, and it’s understandable. But just like there are bad places in your home city, there are in wherever you’re going. Know them. Don’t go there. Even if you’re tempted by some sight or place, make sure you do some proper research just in case. Certain places have higher crime rates. It’s a simple fact. If you avoid the areas with a high crime there’s less of a chance you’ll be affected, and all your travel plans waylaid.
