Everyone knows to book flights early for cheaper prices and to pack as light as you can to help a trip go more smoothly these days (well almost everyone). But what are the tips which nobody normally thinks about? How can you still get an extra edge to enhance your travel experience and get even more bang for your buck? Here, we dive into some unusual travel tips that could make your adventures more memorable, efficient, and fun.
1. Download Offline Maps
While Google Maps and other navigation apps are essential, they can become useless without an internet connection. Download offline maps of your destination using Google Maps or Maps.me. These maps can help you navigate even in the most remote areas without worrying about data usage or connectivity issues.
2. Use Incognito Mode for Booking Flights
Flight prices can fluctuate based on your search history. To avoid price hikes, always search for flights in incognito or private browsing mode. This prevents travel websites from tracking your searches and artificially inflating prices based on your interest.
3. Carry a Sarong
A sarong is a versatile piece of cloth that can serve multiple purposes. Use it as a blanket on a cold flight, a towel at the beach, a makeshift curtain, or even a dress. It’s lightweight, easy to pack, and can be a lifesaver in many situations.
4. Utilize Layovers for Mini-Excursions
Instead of dreading long layovers, use them as opportunities to explore new cities. Some airports offer free city tours for passengers with extended layovers. Research your layover city beforehand and make a quick itinerary to make the most of your time.
5. Pack a Mini First Aid Kit
While most travelers remember to pack basic medications, a mini first aid kit can be invaluable. Include items like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any prescription medication you may need. This kit can save you from having to navigate foreign pharmacies for simple ailments.
6. Travel with a Reusable Water Bottle with a Filter
Staying hydrated is crucial, but buying bottled water constantly is both costly and environmentally unfriendly. Invest in a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter, such as those made by LifeStraw or Grayl. These bottles allow you to safely drink tap water or even natural water sources.
7. Use Credit Card Benefits
Many credit cards offer travel-related perks that usually go unused. Check if your credit card provides benefits like free travel insurance, access to airport lounges, or no foreign transaction fees. These perks can enhance your travel experience and save you money.
8. Join Local Meetup Groups
One of the best ways to experience a new place is to connect with locals. Use platforms like Meetup or Couchsurfing to find events and gatherings happening around you. Joining a local activity can give you unique insights into the culture and provide you with an opportunity to make new friends.
9. Be Open to Change
While planning is important, being too rigid can prevent you from experiencing spontaneous adventures. Be open to changing your plans if a local recommends a must-see place or if you discover an exciting opportunity. Sometimes the best travel memories are those that weren’t planned.
10. Wake Up Early(ish)
The early bird truly does catch the worm, especially when traveling. Waking up early allows you to visit popular attractions before the crowds arrive, enjoy cooler temperatures, and often see a city come to life. Early morning photography can also yield some stunning shots with soft, natural light. Obviously, don’t wake up so early that you will be too exhausted to have fun.
11. Eat Where the Locals Eat
Tourist traps are everywhere, and they often serve overpriced and mediocre food. To experience authentic local cuisine, eat where the locals eat. Use apps like Yelp or Foursquare, or simply ask a local for their favorite dining spots. This way, you’ll enjoy better food and a more genuine cultural experience.
12. Carry a Dummy Wallet
Pickpocketing is a common issue in many tourist destinations. To protect yourself, carry a dummy wallet with some expired cards and a small amount of cash. Keep your real wallet in a more secure place, such as a money belt or hidden pocket. If you do get pickpocketed, you’ll only lose the dummy wallet, saving you a lot of hassle and money.
13. Document Your Travels Creatively
Instead of just taking photos and videos, consider more creative ways to document your travels. Keep a travel journal, sketch scenes, collect small souvenirs like postcards or local trinkets, or create a scrapbook. These creative endeavors can provide a richer and more personal record of your travels.
14. Leverage Public Transport Apps
Navigating public transportation in a new city can be daunting, but there are numerous apps that can make it easier. Apps like Citymapper, Moovit, and Transit provide real-time information on public transit routes, schedules, and delays. Using these apps can save you time and reduce travel stress.
15. Keep Digital Copies of Important Documents
Losing important documents like your passport, visa, or travel insurance can be a nightmare. Keep digital copies of these documents on your phone and in a secure cloud storage service. In case of loss or theft, having these copies can expedite the replacement process.
16. Pack a Portable Door Lock
For added security in unfamiliar accommodations, carry a portable door lock. These devices are easy to use and can provide an extra layer of protection against unauthorized entry. They are particularly useful in budget hotels or guesthouses where security might not be top-notch.
17. Embrace Digital Nomad Tools
A digital nomad is somebody with a job which allows them to work from anywhere. Whether you’re a digital nomad or just someone who needs to stay connected, embracing tools designed for the remote worker can be a game-changer. Use apps like Nomad List to find the best cities to work from, based on factors like internet speed, cost of living, and weather. Additionally, Coworker can help you find coworking spaces around the world, offering a more productive environment than a crowded café.
Conclusion
I hope that some of these unusual travel tips can not only make your journeys smoother but also add an element of adventure and discovery. There are so many different apps and tools around today meaning we live in a world where unusual travel tips are becoming more and more relevant. Perhaps you will only use one or two of them to start with, but even this could turn the stress and worry which is often associated with travel into the relaxing adventure it should be. By thinking outside the box and being prepared for the unexpected, you can transform your travel experiences into unforgettable stories. So, pack your bags, keep an open mind, and embark on your next adventure. Happy travels!