22 TRAVEL MISTAKES YOU SHOULD NOT MAKE
22 TRAVEL MISTAKES YOU SHOULD NOT MAKE
Is this your first trip abroad or possibly another routine trip? Whether or not it is, mistakes happen, no matter how often we travel. Therefore, I am a big advocate for detailed planning and preparing for your vacation months in advance. So here are 22 travel mistakes you should not make and how to avoid them in your future travels.
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1. Booking flights too close together (even with the same airline)
Whether it is with the same airline not, I will advise you to never reserve a connecting flight with less than a minimum of five hours between them. That is especially if you are unsure of the punctuality record of the airlines. Other factors to consider are the distance between terminals and problems locating them in big airports. Flight delays and long customs lines, etc., are other issues to consider. Missing a connecting flight is not only a stressful experience but can be costly.
I can recall one of my trips four ago with Turkish Airlines, I learned this the hard way. Not only did they abandon me in Turkey for over 8 hours to await another flight back to the U.S.A., but I also had to buy an extra ticket for the last leg of my trip to get back home because of their tardiness. All this even though I was using their airline only for the three countries I was visiting. They were late arriving in Istanbul from Bulgaria, and so was their connecting flight back to the U.S.A, where they left all passengers.
I also had a similar experience with Egypt Air from Egypt to Dubai, where they were late by five hours. It so happened that I had luckily booked a connecting time difference of eight hours between flights. Sometimes it is better to “kill” extra time at an airport than trust the reliability of some airlines.
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2. Letting your passport fall within 3 - 6 months of expiration
Refrain from travelling with a passport expiring in three to six months. Many countries stipulate passports must be valid for three months (Canada, Mexico, and some European countries) and six months after the last travel date (the day you depart the country to return home, not arrive in the country). Letting your passport fall within 3 – 6 months of expiration and using it to travel is not a good idea.
Check the intended country requirements regarding passport validity before travelling. Because it varies according to the destination, some countries enforce a 3-month rule instead of a 6-month one. If you do not, what may happen is that the airline might disallow you from boarding, or if they allow you, when you get to the country’s border, they might deny your entry. If your passport expires while travelling, you cannot use it to fly back home.
3. Not knowing your rights for delay/cancellation compensation in the European Union.
Many people may not know is that they have entitlement to compensation due to flight delays and or flight cancellations by European airlines within the European Union. Do not leave money in their hands after they inconvenience and cost you money.
Please research the EU regulation (EC) 261/2004 for more information. Unlike many other airlines in different parts of the world, which take advantage of travellers. You can feel comfortable knowing you have financial coverage when travelling in the European Union.
4. Believing everything you see or hear about a country on mainstream media
Do not believe or be swayed by everything you see and or hear in the media, especially on television, about many countries. It is a proven fact many newscasters highlight the most deplorable and depressing parts of the city/country when they visit. In other cases, due to unforeseen circumstances, such as an uprising or natural disasters. Therefore, on many occasions, this is what they portray of the country.
You are more likely to get an unbiased view and a realistic picture of a country from travel bloggers, vloggers, or a travel website. A simple Google search for information on a country is also an excellent way to garner more information.
I can tell you without a doubt; it is true regarding the dissemination of skewed information. For example, my visit to Cape Town, South Africa, is a perfect example of this. It was the complete opposite of what is most time portrayed on television about this and many other countries, especially African countries.
5. Turn off your post-paid roaming and or travel with a prepaid phone
It is depressing to return home after your vacation to receive an exorbitant telephone bill. I previously “burned to learn” travelling with a post-paid phone, with roaming activated (and this excluded internet charges). I would suggest some other options for those who want to stay in constant contact, at minimal cost;
- Travel with a prepaid sim card (use it only for necessary and manage the credits).
- Deactivate the roaming on your phone before travelling to avoid roaming charges (you need to liaise with your network provider). When your roaming is on, every call, SMS, voice mail, email, etc. you receive and check, you pay. Another thing to note, even if you miss-call someone without them picking up the phone, you also pay. I remember miss-calling about ten persons as a signal that I had arrived safely at my destination. When I received the bill, I had to pay 3.00 USD for each miss-call.
- If you do not wish to deactivate roaming, then put your phone on airplane mode before leaving your country. until you return (you can still use Wi-Fi to stay in touch).
- Remove your SIM card and buy one when you arrive in the country (I highly recommend this). These SIM cards are usually very economical and most times come with free internet. The free internet is essential for your navigation apps, communication, and translator on the go when you are not at your hotel. Added to this, you do not need to have a VPN for unsecured WI-FI when you are using your data to chat and do online transactions.
A big bill with roaming fees after your vacation is “a pain in the arse”. Avoid it at all costs unless you can afford it.
6. Not knowing the visa requirements for the intended country
Being turned away at the airline counter or on arrival in a country will be disappointing, stressful, and a waste of money. Do not assume you will not need a visa for countries other than the United States of America and Canada. Google search your country visa requirements for the intended country when researching and planning your vacation.
If you need a Visa, it is important not to book a flight or accommodation before applying for and receiving the visa. To date, Qatar is the only country I have been to where you must book your flight before applying for your visa. So, be sure to do some research regarding visa requirements.
7. Avoid street foods and Ice/ice drinks
Avoid purchasing street food unless the surroundings look sanitary and recommended by the locals (I usually avoid all street foods). Remember, you are new to this place and are not familiar with these vendors. Food poisoning is a reality and can quickly end your vacation.
Avoid drinks made from crushed ice like Snow cones and Daiquiris and refuse or discard ice from your beverages. Most people do not drink tap water. So consider that they make ice from tap water, not bottled water. Therefore, freezing water, unfortunately, does not kill the bacteria or other germs present in it, so avoid these to remain healthy on your vacation.
8. Viewing long layovers as a problem instead of a travel opportunity
Do not view long layovers as a hassle or problem. Use them as free travel or an extra mini-vacation, especially if it is a country you have not previously visited. Take advantage of the opportunity to tour the city and surrounding areas, free or for a minimal fee. Many countries such as South Korea, Singapore, Qatar, Turkey, among others, offer this service. Additionally, many airports provide luggage lockers at minimal costs. So leave your luggage at the airport and spend your free time sightseeing in an unfamiliar city.
9. Travel Insurance is essential but unnecessary if you have "just in case" funds.
Travel insurance is a necessity when travelling. It is essential to have it for any travel-related emergencies, especially at this time of COVID-19. Arm yourself with a travel insurance package that not only covers medical but other things like lost luggage, flight delays, etc. Before COVID-19, it did not seem like such a big deal to travel without insurance. However, now, it is for extra protection and peace of mind in case of medical issues. It is unnecessary if you have a credit card with travel insurance, are a risk-taker with “just-in-case funds”, and or always take meticulous care of yourself.
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10. If you are travelling to Belarus connecting via Russia or vice versa, you will need a visa.
If you plan to visit Minsk, Belarus, and connect/transit in Russia via SVO, DME, or any other Russian airport. You will need a visa. It does not matter if you are from one of the 74 countries allowed to travel to Belarus visa-free. You can travel visa-free to Belarus from any country except Russia. The same also applies to those travelling from Belarus to Russia, even if they can travel to Russia visa-free.
Your dilemma becomes clear and your confusion begins when you get to the check-in counter for your flight to Belarus to have this relayed to you. The only way around this would be to fly from Russia to another country and purchase another ticket back to Belarus. Weird right!
That is because flights between Russia and Belarus are considered “internal flights” (this is complex to apprehend considering they are two separate countries). It is a warning that will save you the hassle, stress, and money to get yourself out of this pickle. Another one of my life lessons, been there, done that!
11. Neglecting to invest in a good travel lock
Whenever I travel, I always lock on my suitcase with another lock besides the built-in lock. The only country to cut it off every time is the United States of America (I usually use a cheap lock for this leg of my flight). Of course, inside would be a document saying inspected by T.S.A. At least I know I locked it, and when it arrived in the country, it was secure.
In my years of travel, I have heard too many travel horror stories. Either the tampering of luggage and items stolen, or contraband inserted unbeknownst to travellers. Other times, I have seen suitcases on the luggage carousel wide opened because someone might have possibly tampered with them. The alternative to a lock would be to plastic-wrap your luggage at the airport. However, I do not find this is to be an economical option.
Investing in a good travel lock is a definite must-do especially if your accommodation is at a hostel. Remember you will share a room with strangers and need to secure your stuff. That is not an isolated case for hostels only. It is also a good idea for added security at regular hotels and guest houses.
12. Postponing travel to remote countries for after retirement.
Some people believe it is best to visit more of the countries nearby theirs when they are young. Then, when they are older, to travel to the more remote countries. I say no to this. I believe when you are younger; you are more capable and tolerant of long flights.
However, as you get older, it is better to enjoy more cruises and travel to countries nearby that are less strenuous to get to and offer more relaxing vacations. It is wiser to leave these countries (regional travel) for when you are older or at pensionable age, reasons being;
- Less hassle to travel because flights are shorter to the countries in your region. Therefore, you sit less in an airplane because flights are as short as thirty minutes to a few hours.
- When you are younger, it is best to undertake more exploration-type trips. The off-the-beaten-track types take you to remote areas just for the thrill.
- Many of these airports are usually enormous, complicated, and downright confusing to use. Some are so gigantic that you need to take a train, moving sidewalks (Travelator), elevators, or escalators to get to T.S.A. or luggage pickup. When you are younger, you can maneuver these complicated airports much easier.
- It is more tedious to travel to remote locations. It can also take as much as one to three days on a long-haul flight (see how to survive and prepare for a long-haul flight) to reach them.
- Jet lag is real. The effects of it come with crossing times zones and many hours of flying. As a result, those who are older are more prone to suffer from its many bad symptoms and side effects.
13. Having all your money, passport, national ID cards, and credit cards on your person is a bad idea
It is a definite no-no to keep all your money, national ID, credit, and debit cards with you at all times, especially in your wallet. As a result, if you lose your wallet or someone steals it, you lose it all. I will not encourage this practice regardless of if you are travelling or not. Instead, distribute your money, leave most of it in the hotel’s safe and maybe a tiny amount somewhere else. When leaving the hotel, take just enough spending money and one form of ID. Leave your passport, credit, and debit cards in the hotel safe unless you need to use them.
During my travels, I have met people who do not let their passports out of their sight. They are paranoid that someone in the hotel will steal it (some say it depends on the country they visit). Their passports go where they go, even when they are at the pool, shopping, or site-seeing. That is a practice you should discourage. It is just too risky. I have had no issues regarding the disappearance of money, jewelry, passport, or any other items I left in any hotel safe, ever!
14. Not notifying your bank you are travelling.
Almost everyone has either a debit or credit card. Even if you do not plan to use your card and prefer to use cash while travelling, it is still necessary to notify the bank of your travel plans. Provide them with the dates (departure and return) and destination.
Why is it important to do this? If you leave the country without informing the bank and try to use your card, the bank will flag any transactions you try to make with it and block future transactions. That is because they assume you are in the country that issued the card. Therefore, they will think someone else outside the said country is fraudulently using your card.
On the flip side, you notify the bank that you are travelling, yet locally transactions are occurring on your account or cards. The bank will be aware you are not in the country, and the unauthorized transactions will be dealt with accordingly. So, it is critical to inform your bank of your travel plans.
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15. Changing all your money at the airport or hotel.
Do not make a blunder and convert all your money to local currency at the airport or your hotel. I can guarantee you will get the lowest exchange rate for your money. However, I will advise you to convert enough for transport from the airport to your accommodation (if you did not include taxi pick-up with accommodation when you booked with Booking.com). You will always get a higher exchange rate at some local stores or any of the local Cambios in the city. Just look for the ones that do not charge a transaction fee.
16. Forgetting to web check-in or choosing your seat preference online
Many airlines do not offer passengers free advance seat selection when they purchase their ticket. They must pay for it in advance or for free 24 – 72 hours before the flight. Therefore, you must web check-in to select your seat of choice (avoiding the middle seat).
The seat option is most important, especially for long flights and just overall comfort (this is my no.1 must-do of the 22 travel mistakes you should not make). Another reason you should web check-in is that the web check-in line at the airport is always shorter than the regular check-in line.
17. Not packing a Universal travel adapter/charger
Assuming that all countries use the same electrical outlet plugs as yours will be a big mistake. Some countries use 220 voltage and others 120 voltage. Around the world, there are about 15 different electrical outlet plugs. Most countries, especially in Europe, Africa, and Asia, use other electrical outlets than the ones we use in North America.
I remember my first visit to Europe. When I got to my hotel, the first thing I requested was an adapter/plug converter because the plug for my phone was incompatible with that of the hotel. Some hotels often have a surplus to lend their guests, others charge a fee, but most do not provide this. That day, I was out of luck because the hotel had no surplus. I had to visit the local market to purchase one to charge my phone, laptop, etc. Hence the reason I never travel without my (#Ad) Universal travel adapter/plug converter.
18.Not only the famous and rich countries/destinations can be fun.
Most people seem to know and dream of visiting popular and famous destinations like Paris – France, Italy, Hawaii, Dubai, U.A.E., among others. What both travellers and non-travellers do not realize is, some off-the-beaten-path trips could be fun. They can leave a longer-lasting impression than the popular ones. Not because a country is poor or is not on the popular list means that there is nothing of interest there.
A perfect example is Moldova – the poorest country in Europe (be sure to read the article). On my way to the country, people wanted to know why I was visiting and what was there. Also, some people have never heard of it and or asked where it is situated. While in the capital, some locals wanted to know why I chose their country and not one of the more popular European countries.
Moldova has lots to offer besides being economical and perfect for budget travellers. Might I say I enjoyed my trip to Chisinau, Moldova. I have been to other poor and low-key countries, all of which i enjoyed. However, the reactions I received because of my vacation in Moldova stood out most.
19. Not copying your Main Travel documents
It is imperative to copy your travel documents and mainly your visa and passport bio page (page with photo). Having a hard copy and soft copy (via email or picture) of your documents is a “just-in-case” backup. There is always a first time for travel mishaps. So, in case you lose these documents or someone steals them, you have a copy of the documents as proof and support to assist you in getting back home.
20. Not properly researching, planning and budgeting
The key to a successful trip is to research, plan, and budget. Unless you like taking risks and over-spending, you must do this. When you research, you garner information about the intended destination, its laws, customs, dress code (in Islamic or religious countries), etc. (For additional information see 32 weird customs, laws, and gestures worldwide). Additionally, you will have an idea of the average price for lodging, meals, transport, etc. If it is safe or not, visa requirements, etc., etc., you get the picture. With all the pertinent information, only then can you meticulously plan a smooth and stress-free trip with confidence.
Keeping a tight budget is key to successful spending and money management when travelling on a budget (see how to plan a vacation with little money). Whatever you budget per day or week, stick to it or you will overspend and place yourself in financial problems.
21. Overpacking, under-packing, or packing incorrectly
When you are packing for your trip, smarter and lighter are always best. Avoid over-packing, packing insufficient clothes, or incorrect garments. The advantages are less hassle logging around bulky luggage and no incurrence of overweight charges for clothes you will not use. Under-packing is just as bad as over-packing. If you do not pack enough clothes, you might have to purchase more or reuse them. More so, you will have to wash them at the hotel or pay a laundry, thus adding to the overall costs of your trip.
Packing incorrect clothes, shoes, and gear can also be a big issue. You should pack according to the activities you plan to do in said country, its climate, customs, and religion (some countries have a dress code).
Many people may not know that some countries like South Africa, among others, experience winter during June – September. July (is the coldest month of the year) when other countries around the world are experiencing summer. Inappropriate clothes can be a problem. There are dress codes, especially for ladies who are visiting some Islamic or religious countries. Therefore, I always emphasize the importance of researching everything about a country before travelling.
22. Not having the correct vaccinations or information on travel protocols
Some countries request specific vaccinations to be eligible to enter their borders, such as Polio, Small Pox, and Yellow Fever vaccines. You will need to research pertinent information like this when planning your vacation. It is a prerequisite for entry into many countries, and if you need to get in, you must comply and be vaccinated.
I remembered being inoculated with the yellow fever vaccine to enter a couple of Asian countries. However, I found it odd that they never requested proof of vaccination or my international vaccination card on entry. Nonetheless, be sure that you take the vaccines requested by specific countries to guarantee entry.
Currently, most countries have a COVID-19 vaccine mandate as a prerequisite for entry. There are many types of vaccines available. However, some countries will not grant entry to all inoculated travellers, according to the vaccine they received.
Research which brand of vaccine is acceptable in the country you intend to visit. Notwithstanding that, if you want to travel but cannot accept the vaccines. Some countries like Croatia, Greece, Cyprus, and others welcome unvaccinated travellers (from specific countries). You must have a negative PCR test, of course, and they may or may not be subject you to 10 – 14 days quarantine.
So, do some research before booking your flight. That is for sure one of the 22 travel mistakes you should not make if you seriously wish to be afforded entry into any country.
Conclusion
It may surprise many that these mistakes are typical to even the most experienced traveller. For those who are first-time travellers, take heart. Travel is about exploring and learning. Learning from your mistakes and improvising with hacks to solve them is part of it.
There is always a solution for every problem, and you can be sure you will not make or repeat them after reading this article. You will surely help someone else avoid future travel mistakes with this information. So, share these “22 travel mistakes you should not make,” with someone who needs the information most.
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