Travel Tips
Amazing Travel Tips For Anyone Anywhere
Whether You Travel Alone, In Groups, With Your Family, Your Kids, For Work Or Just For Fun Then This Is For You
Do you have a travel tip?
If you have any travel tips or tricks send them here to GoPackGoTravel and have it added to the list.
Here it is hoped, that with your help, a list of some of the best travel tips available can be compiled.
They can be anything. Either routine or out of the ordinary that people may not know or forget about between trips. Anything to do with travel. Here are some ideas.
Cruising, flying, camping, caravan or motor homes (RV’s), trains, hotels or rental properties. Travelling either as or with a disabled person, children or pets.
Walking, rambling, cycling, car travel or event days
If you have been on a trip and thought “I am glad we did that” or “next time we should do
that” then let us know.
Here are four questions people regularly ask about travel and hopefully some of these travel tips will help answer them.
What to avoid while traveling?
How can I be good at Travelling?
How do you travel as a beginner?
What are three important things to take when you travel?
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Below is a list of Travel Tips in no particular order
Top Tip
Start your travelling day (and indeed any day) in a positive frame of mind. Be grateful that you woke up this morning. It will put everything into perspective for you.
To Lighten The Mood Still Further Look What This Guy Said When He Over Indulged Whilst Travelling
12 Travel Tips For Packing Wisely
1. Weather. Research your destination’s weather to pack appropriately.
2. Check Itinerary. Understand your itinerary to know what types of clothing you’ll need.
3. Pack Light. Use creative combinations to mix and match.
4. Flexible Clothing. Choose versatile clothing that can be used in multiple ways.
5. Baggage Fees. Check the airline’s baggage fees & restrictions.
6. Weight. Weigh your luggage at home to avoid check-in issues.
7. Prepay Luggage. Prepay checked baggage fees to speed your check-in process.
8. Pack Half. If two are travelling together and taking two suitcases pack half and half. Half your clothes in each case. This way if one goes missing you will have something to wear.
9. Suitcase Labels. Cover Your Suitcase Labels.
Only use suitcase labels that cover up your address.
If people know you are away on holiday they may think your house is unoccupied and vulnerable.
10. Packing A Suitcase. Pack heavy items like suits flat and at the bottom. Shirts and blouses at the top. Tightly roll what you can. Fill any gaps.
11. Slippers. Take a pair of lightweight slippers for hotel bedrooms and bathrooms. These could be like the rubber slip on sandals people use for the beach. They are lightweight, washable and cheap.
12. Learn From A List. Make a list of what you take in your suitcase or on your trip. Use the list for your next vacation. If you don´t use something delete it. Remember that cashmere items whilst not cheap are lightweight, warm and can be used multiple times. Consider where you are going and what you are taking. It is sometimes more practical to buy an item of clothing or an accessory at your destination even if you have to leave it behind later.
8 Travel Tips To Stretch Your Travel Budget
1. Season. Travel out of season.
2. Alerts. Set up fare alerts.
3. Baggage. Avoid baggage fees.
4. Meals. Prepare your own meals.
5. Things To Do. Find free things to do.
6. Money Exchange. Exchanging money at the airport often has added fees involved.
7. Check What Is Included. Ultra-low-cost fares don’t always include everything.
8. Public Transport. Embrace public transportation.
25 General Travel Tips
1. Write Down The Place You Are Staying. Don’t rely on your smartphone. If your battery goes down you have nothing to show your taxi driver. Especially important if you don’t speak the language.
Travel Tips
2. Language. Learn A Few Basic Words Of The Language. Knowing a few words of the language of the country you are visiting works wonders with the locals. It tells them you are friendly and also will make the unscrupulous think twice before ripping you off.
Travel Tips and Tricks
3. Valuables. Carry The Most Valuable Items With You. Things that are really important to you or would cause big problems if lost or stolen carry with you. Don’t put them in cases or rucksacks.
Travel Tips
4. Documents. Keep a copy of important documents somewhere safe. For example passport. Leave a copy with a relative. Copy it to yourself in an email attachment or folder. This way if it gets lost or stolen you can quickly and easily get a replacement.
You could also include health insurance, tickets, booking documents, driving licences etc. Anything that is going to cause you a problem if you lost them.
5. Have The Right Attitude. Things go wrong in everyday life wherever you are. Why should being on holiday be any different? Be prepared for the unexpected. Stay positive.
Everything is an experience good or bad. If all else fails just remember that you woke up this morning.
6. What If’s!! Being pessimistic is different to being prepared. Don’t dwell on this too much but just run through what you or members of your party would do if you had a problem. Get some idea what you would do or who to contact if things went wrong.
7. Self Planning A Big Trip. Get several brochures (minimum of 5) from your local travel agent. Make sure they relate to different travel companies.
Select your country or area you want to go.
Make a list from each brochure where they go in the country or area you want to visit.
Pick travel of the same duration from each wherever possible.
Some visit say 10 places of interest another maybe 8 another maybe 6 and so on.
All will visit popular places. The most tourist locations visited by the most travel companies will give you an indicator as to the most popular. They obviously visit for a reason and maybe a starting point for you to include in your planning. You can pick up some great travel tips this way.
8. Take Your Own Water Bottle. Tap water isn’t always safe so pack a filtered water bottle
This way not only are you helping save the planet but you can re-use the same bottle thousands of times, and never pay for expensive bottled water again!
9. Spare Passport Photos. Carry a few spare passport photos. You will find them useful if you need such things as a bus pass, access to some libraries for internet or research, visa applications and in some countries to even buy a SIM card.
Budget Travel Tips
Top Travel Tips
10. Toilet Roll. Extremely useful for obvious reasons. Carry a spare toilet roll flattened down in a small zipped plastic freezer type bag. You never know where you may end up or what facilities are like.
11. Backpacking Trial and Test. Before you leave home pack your bag and go out with it on for several days in a row. Make sure you are comfortable with it. Even do a trial run by staying at a Youth Hostel or somewhere self catering. This way you will know what you are missing.
12. Clothes. Carry lightweight, quick drying, non iron, comfortable clothing. Trousers and shorts should have lots of pockets. Break in any shoes or boots before you go so they are comfortable.
13. First Aid. Carry a selection of plasters. Also Imodium. If you get food poisoning and need to travel that day it may help keep you secure.
14. Europe Health. A European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) allows reciprocal health care within the EU. If still in date it is still valid for UK residents. If not a GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) should be applied for.
The card means that you can receive treatment on the same basis and at the same costs as a national of whichever EU country you are in.
Switzerland has slightly different arrangements and is more specific about who is covered. Also in Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein you cannot use a GHIC or EHIC and you will need travel insurance with healthcare cover.
Check your country Government website for latest updates. UK website.
You can get medically necessary healthcare in Norway (for example emergency treatment, or to treat a pre-existing condition) if you are a UK Passport holder by presenting your passport.
15. Free Health Cards. GHIC (Global Health Insurance Cards) for when in the EU are free. You will find some websites offering to assist people in obtaining them and making a charge. There is no need to pay anything. The whole process is quite simple.
16. Places To Eat. Ask a local person about good places to eat. When they see that you are a tourist they will invariably send you to higher priced tourist restaurants. This is the time to say no tourist, “Where do you eat?” They are usually the best and good value. They may even know the name of the restaurant owner.
17. Places Of Interest. Local people will know of places of interest and out of the way places that are not mentioned in guide books. They will also be able to tell you about some of the local history if you pick the right person to ask. Don´t forget about local libraries. The people that work in them normally have a wealth of local knowledge.
18. Memory Cards. Take extra Memory Cards for camera, phone or anything else you have that requires a memory card. Also take spare Fully Charged Batteries. Consider taking a Card Reader that you can attach to your phone so that you can back up photographs to the Cloud in case you lose your memory cards.
19. Stock Of Toiletries This also applies to anything else that you feel you need whilst travelling. It could be a luggage tag or plasters or reinforced socks or anything.
20. Historic Centre Dress Code. Some towns and cities in Europe have been having a problem with visiting tourists and how they dress when visiting their historic centres. They consider some so disrespectful that even as recently as 2023 they have brought in new rules. Make sure you are not one of them and ask a local or at the tourist information site.
These new rules prohibit people from walking around the historic centre “in a bathing suit, underwear or no clothes in a public space”. In some historic locations not even shorts are allowed especially at religious sites.
21. Packing Shoes. Shoes are a major source of germs and all sorts of bugs. Wrap them in a plastic bag when putting them into your case. Another option if you are in transit is to use a shower cap to cover the soles. Many hotels have shower caps as complimentary items in their bathrooms.
22. Passports. Check your passport expiry date before you go. Many people have been refused boarding and entry into countries, especially Europe, when the passports do not have 6 months or more remaining. The date you need to look at is the issue date irrespective of what it says about valid to date. Example. A 10 year passport starts the date issued irrespective of any added months for renewing early. Annoying but this is how it is being interpreted.
23. Smokers. Vaping and E-Cigarettes. If you travel with vapes or e-cigarettes check for any restrictions on the devices at your country of travel.
Spain has bans on some beaches as well as outside bar terraces and balconies. Strict rules also apply other countries including Thailand, Turkey and Australia to name just a few. You risk heavy fines and possible imprisonment.
If caught taking nicotine e-liquid into Australia for example it is reported that the fine is up to A$222,000 (approx. £125,000). Some Australia States have two year prison sentences for importation.
24. Non Smokers. If smoking is an issue choose a non smoking friendly location town or city where the local council has such bans. Finding such locations is something that members of the travel club can have advice on from the club.
25. Hotel Security. You may book into an hotel and go down to the reception area or be waiting with your luggage. Sometimes they also have internet desks and almost certainly public wifi. It is open to non residents so be on your guard.
The tip here is when entering make yourself known to the Reception Staff with a nod or a wave or a verbal greeting.
It is a fact of life that some bad people target tourists either for their luggage or to steal from them by getting into what appears to be a friendly conversation. Some people are genuine of course. Making yourself known to hotel staff will put off the less dubious characters and give you an added level of safety.
Travel Club
Travel Club. Consider joining a Travel Club and if you can then do so. These are subscription based but can provide an immense amount of benefits including deep discounts.
11 Holiday Rental Tips
1. Rental Details. Make sure you read the details and not just the photos.
2. Reviews. Read reviews carefully.
3. Distance From Attractions. Check the proximity to the attractions you want to experience.
4. Rental Rules. Check the rules and amenities before you book.
5. Service Expectation. Don’t expect hotel-like services.
6. Complain At The Time. Raise any issues during the stay.
7. Check Out Procedure. Know the check-out process and follow it.
8. Private Rental. If renting privately make sure you know who you are renting from and that it is with the permission of the owner. There are instances of keyholders, even the most trusted, looking after rental properties on behalf of owners letting apartments and villas without the knowledge of the owner and pocketing the money. There could be serious consequences in respect of insurance cover for the renter in the event of an accident at the property as well as defrauding the property owner.
9. Rental Property Owner. If you own a rental property anywhere and have a keyholder make sure you can trust them!!!!!
10. Utilities-Private Renting. If renting a property privately, especially a long term rental, you may well negotiate whether utilities such as gas and electric are included in the rental. If not included it could be a case of paying additional monies at the end of your rental to cover these utilities. Make sure you know how much you will be paying and that it is at cost. There have been instances of renters being charged excessive amounts way over the actual cost. Make sure you know the unit costs of wherever you are staying so that you don´t get ripped off.
11. Balcony Veranda Faces Which Way? This is not always possible but if renting for a long term let, say winter weeks, decide what you want. For example if it is the sun you are after and want to sit on the balcony or veranda in the afternoon or evening in the sun find out where the balcony or veranda faces. Remember that it is different for renting in the Northern Hemisphere to the Southern.
9 Tips For Staying In Hotels / Hostels
1. Key Card. As well as placing a Do Not Disturb notice on your door do you also like to leave a light on when you go out as added security? If reception only issue one key card you can ask for a second. However did you know that there is another way? You can use any old card such as a rail card or supermarket card so long as it is the same size.
2. Keep Your Room Key Card. Take your key card with you when you leave. Whilst cards are normally swiped clean for the next customer the key cards contain data and information personal to you.
3. No Bottle Opener In Your Hotel Room. Try this little trick. If your door has a door opening system located inside and at the top of your door use the to opening bars to lever it gently off.
4. Earplugs and Eye Mask. Take earplugs and an eye mask to reduce noise and help you sleep or rest. Use them in hotels or hostels or trains or planes.
5. Get Into A Routine. Practice getting into a packing and leaving routine. The chance you leave something behind is extremely high. It could be anything such as a towel to a phone charger. If you think it will help make a written list and have it plastic coated to refer to.
6. Secure Your Luggage. Use small padlocks to secure your luggage. The best type are combination lock. Don’t use your date of birth for the combination. Lots of people will have access to your passport details whilst travelling.
7. Type Of Combination Lock. Suggest you use combination locks but you will need to consider if you want to use ones that are plain with no hole showing in the base. Although it may not look like it this hole is a keyhole. If they have a hole they are the type that can be unlocked by US Customs and maybe others around the world. If your not present and access is wanted the lock will be broken. You will know straightaway that access has been gained by someone. The issue about this type of combination lock with a hole in the base is that you do not know who else has an access key.
8. Luggage and Bicycle Cable Lock. There may be times you need to leave your luggage temporarily. At times like these it can be useful to have a bicycle cable type lock. This especially if travelling on your own. For example hostel, hotel or a B & B dormitory with strangers and you need to go for a shower. With a combination cable lock you could secure your backpack or case to the bed or somewhere. Your fellow travellers are unlikely to be travelling with bolt cutters.
9. Waterproof Bag. If you are backpacking, travelling alone and staying in hostels there will be no one that you can trust. Take a small plastic waterproof bag with you so that you can put your passport, money and valuables in them to take into the shower with you. Better safe than sorry.
4 Credit Debit Card Tips
1. Credit Debit Cards. Take a least three credit debit cards with money on them. Cards can get eaten by ATM´s or become damaged, lost or stolen.
2. Replacement Cards. Getting a replacement credit or debit card can be a nightmare. It can take weeks by normal post even if your bank will agree to send it abroad to you. One way to avoid the delay is have the replacement card, if the bank won´t do it, sent by courier via a friend or relative. Your friend or relative can complete any customs forms and this way you would probably get it in about 3 days after they send it. You will need to check the regulations in your country on this. Some Courier Services will not do it and some are not allowed.
3. Digital Credit and Debit Cards. To make online purchases more secure banks now have the option of issuing Digital Credit and Debit Cards. This is a legal requirement in the EU.
If you are not sure how they work then this is how.
Basically a digital card is identical to your credit or debit card with one great exception. They show a different number, expiry date and CVV code to your real credit card.
Digital cards are free and can be single use or multi-use. You can have as many digital cards as you want and you initiate your own card through your bank App or online banking.
You will have the option to cancel the card at any time or set up credit limit on that one digital card. For example you want to make a purchase of 400 Euros you can set it at 400 Euros or say 405 Euros. You buy your 400 Euro purchase leaving just 5 Euro balance. This 5 Euro is not charged to your real card account but if someone steals you digital card details or your data compromised in anyway the most they could steal is the remaining 5 Euros left after you have made your purchase.
Consider buying your holidays, flights, cruises and hotel bookings with a digital card rather than exposing your real card.
Whichever country you bank in ask them how you get digital cards.
4. Card Protection. Protect your credit cards with a bag that is RFID protected. To save repetition please see Travelling by Car first item Security for an explanation.
37 Cruising Tips
Don´t Make Mistakes That Could Blow Your Travel Budget
1. Cruise Expectations. Research the cruise line as to rules and regulations and standards on board. These include dress codes. For example if there is a Gala Night. After all you will want to make sure that you will be comfortable on board and take the right clothes.
2. Port Departure. Get to your port of departure a day ahead of schedule. If you stay at a hotel nearby they may be all geared up for cruise ship passengers and have a transfer service. They may also have car parking facilities that allow you to leave your car with them whilst you are away.
3. Car Parking. If you do leave your car at the hotel make sure they know about it. There may be a charge but if they don´t know about it there is a risk of it being towed away. It happens!!!!
4. Your Cruise. As well as researching the ship find out specifically about the cruise you are booking. Make sure you know what is included and more importantly what is not included.
5. Packing. Consistently the number one tip for people new to cruising is don’t overpack. Don´t take too much clothing. There are laundry facilities if you need them. Usually do it yourself or have it done for you. Shoes are also one of the things people take too many of. There is no need. Lounge wear for the cabin and a wind cheater for outside are always useful.
6. Videos. Once you have selected your cruise and your cabin you can usually find that someone has put a video of the cabin on Youtube. If they have you will be able to see what they are like.
7. Carry On Bag. Take a carry on bag. Depending on shipping line, port and number of people boarding it can take up to half a day to have your suitcase delivered to your cabin. In it you will need everything to get you through until your case arrives. Remember to put your swimwear in your carry on.
8. Explore The Ship. As soon as you can explore the decks and find out where everything is. Restaurants, leisure facilities, activities, bars etc. This will save you time later and you won´t end up at the end of your cruise disappointed saying I wish I had known about this or that.
9. Sign Up. Soon after boarding sign up for activities in advance.
10. Relax. Don’t feel like you have to do it all. You are on holiday to enjoy yourself and relax.
11. Contact Information. Especially relevant if you go on any shore trips whether organized or not is to always carry the ship’s contact information with you.
12. Mobile/Cell. Keep your phone in airplane mode.
13. Tipping. Check if tipping is included in your cruise. Tip if you wish but don’t feel obliged to tip twice for drinks and spa treatments.
14. Excursions. When choosing which excursions to go on ask the people who know. These are the crew so make friends with them. They will know the best places and experiences to help make your cruise memorable.
15. Advance Research. Wifi is normally either very limited or expensive or both on board ships. With this in mind research ports in advance whilst at home before the cruise. Download all the information you want to view offline whilst on your cruise. It also means it does not take time out of your vacation doing research.
16. Dining On Board. Variety is the spice of life. Every day sample a different dining venue.
17. Save Money. Don´t purchase stuff on board you don’t need.
18. Self Exploring. Don´t feel obligated to purchasing an excursion from the cruise ship. Providing it is a safe area you can explore on your own.
19. Physical Effort. Each of the cruise excursions and activities will tell you the level of physical effort required. Take note of them. They are not there for nothing.
20. Daily Itineries. Each cruise ship will publish a list of daily itineries. These should be read to keep you up to date on what is going on.
21. SunSet. Ask the crew the best place to see the sunset. The observation deck may be good and the best but you may have to share it with many of the other cruise guests. The crew will know other alternatives.
22. Night Excursions. Some cruises offer night time excursions. Don´t dismiss, consider them. Talk to fellow travellers. They may have been on one previously and be able to give advice.
23. Plug Converters. Ship cabins are notorious for not having enough plugs. Take a plug converter. Also a power strip if you can but not surge protectors.
24. Celebration. If your cruise is to celebrate a special occasion then tell the staff. Don´t expect anything but if they do organize a little something for you it is a bonus.
25. Best Cabins. Before you book and if new to cruising try and speak with seasoned cruisers. Ask them about the best location of cabins either inside or out. Some cabins that come highly rated and spoken of as being the calmest are en-suite cabins at the rear with great views of the ocean wildlife.
26. Chef´s Table. If you are into food then as soon as you can after boarding ask if there is a Chef´s Table. If so you can get details of an elevated dining experience.
27. Room Service. If ordering from the room service menu make yourself aware of any charges involved. Dependent on the cruise line some items can be free whilst others are charged. Charging times may also be in operation such as during the main dining times.
28. Wine Packages. Many of the cruise lines have restaurant wine packages which overall can be better value. If not advertised then ask about them.
29. Boarding Day. On the day you board ship many fellow passengers will make their way to the restaurant where a buffet will be laid on. This is all designed to keep passengers occupied whilst there cabins are cleaned. It can be crowded. However their alternatives so as a crew member.
30. Restaurant Bottle. If not included, buying a bottle of wine for dinner is often better value than by the glass. If you don´t finish it ask the waiter to mark it with your room number for next time.
31. School Holidays. Wherever possible try and avoid travelling in the high season of school holidays.
32. Try Something New. When thinking about excursions or activities try and do something you have not done before. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
33. Wander With A Drink. Unless specifically restricted there is no ban on walking around the ship or entering dining areas or theatre with a drink in your hand when on your cruise. Find out if there are any restrictions when you board.
34. Cabin Light. If you are in an inside cabin you will know that there is no window or natural light. Many of the cruise ships have a bridge camera that is direct into your TV. Switch this on when you sleep and it will act as a night light. Also it will tell you when it is dawn and sunup.
35. Water Bottle. Take a water bottle with you. Water on board should be drinkable but you will need to check this out first. Taking a water bottle will mean that you can avoid the cost of buying water if your cruise line charges for it.
36. Toppers. Cruise lines want you to be happy and comfortable. So will supply mattress toppers and different pillows. Just ask!!!
37. Food Limits. Cruise lines do not normally limit what you eat. So if you are in the main dining room and like your food. Tuck in!!!!
Travel Club Membership
Join A Travel Club. Consider the benefits of joining a travel club. At whatever age and wherever you are travelling it is worth considering. Here is another reason below.
Helping Your Child. If you are a parent with a son or daughter going travelling you could do some research for them and see if it would be of benefit to them or you and maybe bring some peace of mind whilst they are away. Benefits can be quite comprehensive such as the summary found on this website. See a full travel club presentation to see the detail.
7 Flight Tips
The following flying tips are courtesy of the British Newspaper The Daily Mail who have asked for the tips to be circulated. There is no better way than adding them to this GoPackGoTravel.com Travel Tips page and happy to do this.
Apparently they come from an airline pilot with 10 years experience with a top named airline.
1. Comfortable Shoes. Wear Comfortable Shoes. Don´t be tempted to wear high healed shoes or smart or heavy shoes. Choose comfortable that you can move in quickly. You may have to land on water or a remote area that requires you to walk a distance to safety.
2. Brace Position. According to the pilot, who spoke anonymously to the newspaper, one important thing to take note of is the brace position in the event of a crash landing. He is convinced it could save your life.
The USA Federal Aviation Administration regard this position as being best position to limit the impact on your body in case of a collision.
3. Where To Sit. Seats towards the back of the plane are the safest. The last two thirds are safest because the aircraft is structurally stronger towards the rear than to the front.
Being stronger this area is more likely to survive an impact.
4. Turbulence. Always keep your seat belt fastened. Turbulence can strike at any time. Apparently there are instances of people not wearing seatbelts bouncing up out of their seats and hitting there heads on the overhead lockers, lights or air conditioning units.
5. Extreme Severe Turbulence. In the event of severe turbulence stow everything that could become a missile and cause injury. In extreme cases consider pouring any hot drinks on the floor making sure you don´t burn a fellow passenger. Don´t panic if the crew ask you to stow items. It is just a precaution.
6. Alcoholic Drinks. For every alcoholic drink you have on board also have a glass of water.
Flying and increased altitude means you have lower oxygen levels in your blood. Low humidity on the plane also causes dehydration and this can also be a major contributing factor.
As a result intoxication occurs much sooner.
7. Overhead Lockers. The more you try and push bags and carry on cases into overhead lockers the more likely the lockers are to pop open in flight. Store your loose items into one bag and make sure your duty free items secured securely deep inside the overhead locker.
10 Motorhome (RV) Caravan Tips
1. Motorhome Caravan Measurements. Make sure you know the height, width and length of your motorhome or caravan or car caravan combination. Put it on a card and place behind the sun visor for quick reference. You will need them for low bridges and some camp sites when you book in.
2. Gas Bottle. If travelling abroad make sure that your gas bottle fittings fit the country you are going to or that you know how to change them over.
3. Rent A Motorhome. If buying a motorhome. Rent before you buy. Preferably the model you are thinking of buying to make sure that it is right for you.
4. Right Frame Of Mind. Be in the right frame of mind and accept that motor home travel is different to being at home. Less space, more restricted. Look at it as every day being an adventure.
5. Ask Others. If buying speak to lots of other motor home owners first. Learn from them. Make a list of questions and ask each the same questions. Add to the questions if you need to. You might find they all say different things but all say one particular thing that is important to all of them that you have not thought about.
6. Compatible. Make sure you are compatible with your fellow traveller.
If you don’t get on at home with them you won’t get on in a motor home in a confined space.
7. How Big. Consider the size of your motorhome relevant to managing and parking it. Over 3.5 tonnes may need a different driving licence depending on your age and country.
8. Running Costs. Consider the running costs when thinking of size. For example some European countries charge higher tolls based on the height of the motorhome.
9. Wild Camping. If travelling in Europe cost in overnight stays in approved camp sites. Some countries do not allow wild camping which can result in fines.
10. Exercise. If you are used to daily exercising keep in mind that you may have an audience from around the camp site.
Travelling With Children Tips
1. Bright Clothes.There will be times when you are with your children in crowded places. For example railway stations, bus stations, airports etc. Dress them in bright clothing so that they stick out and you can see and find them easily.
6 Golfing Vacation Tips
1. Golf Hire. In tourist areas popular with golfers there are sometimes options to hire clubs either directly from specialist golf shops at the airport or in the area. Nearly all golf clubs have club hire facilities. If intending to hire check out your best price options before you go at the arrival airport and the golf courses you will be playing.
2. Golf Club Deposit. Because some people are not as honest as you are, if you have not hired golf clubs from a golf club before, especially tourist areas, expect to leave a security at Reception. This may mean leaving your car keys whilst you play.
3. Golf Societies. You would expect high golf tourist areas with numerous golf courses in competition with each other to be reasonably cheap to play. However in some areas of the world this is not the case.
Check out if there is any organization or golf society that would make your golfing more affordable. Sometimes you can get a cheap annual society membership in return for which you can either play in competitions or do your own thing and book your own courses to play.
By being a society member you get a discount. Sometimes you need to only play a couple of rounds to recover society membership costs. This may also be an option if you plan to return again later in the year for golf.
4. Good Cheap Golf Clubs. In areas with good weather and multiple golf courses you will get retirees who like to play golf.
If you are taking a long term let another alternative to either taking your own golf clubs or hiring is to take a look in the local charity shop. Here you may be able to pick up a very good and very affordable set of clubs that have been donated. Dependent on how long you are staying and how much golf you are going to play it could easily work out cheaper than hiring.
When you leave ask one of your new golfing friends to store them for your next visit or simply donate them back to the charity shop.
5. Golf Hotel Packages. If going on a golfing holiday and arranging it independently find out what holiday packages are available. Some hotels will do all in packages where you can play two, three or four or more different courses including hotel accommodation.
It is a fact that in some high cost expensive golf tourist areas it is cheaper for a local to book a package just to play the courses whether they stay at the hotel or not. The package being cheaper than just independently booking and paying the combined golf course fees.
6. Golf Course Packages. If you are intending to only play at one course ask about what they can offer you. If none are suitable or don´t fit your circumstances they may consider a package tailor made (forgive the pun-golfers will understand) for you.
7 Pet Tips
1. Ask Your Vet. Be sure to discuss precautionary measures to guard against worms, ticks, fleas and other parasite protection with your vet depending on the type of pet and where you are going.
If going abroad and the Vet issues you with any medicine be sure to have a covering letter from your Vet authorizing you to be in possession of the drugs.
2. Doggy List. Make a list of everything that your dog needs for travel. Apart from these items include a spare lead and collar. Sometimes you may be in stressful situations such as crowds where you need more control so consider taking a harness.
3. Pet Photo. Take a photo of your pet. You could lose your dog so carry a good photograph. It is much easier than trying to describe your pet in a foreign country or indeed anywhere. It is also something that could be published in a local newspaper or poster if needed.
4. Pet Passports. To travel in Europe from the UK or outside the EU you must have an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) from your vet every time you travel. Alternatively you can get an EU-issued pet passport.
5. Vaccination Rabies. Check the regulations before you travel. Pets must be vaccinated against rabies if travelling to the EU or when entering UK. Details of this need to be on the pet passport or the Animal Health Certificate.
6. Pet Entry Into UK. Again check the regulations current at the time. Your pet must have tapeworm treatment before entering the UK. This treatment must be done more than 24 but less than 120 hours before scheduled arrival time in the UK. You will therefore need to have this done by a vet. Details need to entered on the pet passport or animal health certificate. Good tip is check the pet passport or A.H.C. before you leave the vet to ensure that it has been entered.
7. Muzzle. If you are travelling with a dog remember that some countries and some establishments will not allow you to enter unless your dog is muzzled so take one with you. This also applies to airlines and ferries.
2 Car Travel Tips
1. Car Security. If travelling by car and have a vehicle with a push button keyless start then protect the key with a bag when not in use. There are technical ways in which someone can come close to you and download the data from your key. Namely scan them whilst in your pocket. They can then gain access to your car and steal it. These bags are commonly known as Faraday Bags.
RFID Protection. This also applies to credit cards and if making a purchase to protect them you need something that is RFID protected. This stands for Radio Frequency Identification which is a method for tracking goods by means of tags which transmit a radio signal.
2. Car Hire. This is sometimes overlooked when hiring a vehicle. Make sure you know what fuel is required and to make things easier for yourself which side the fuel cap is on. Also how to open it.
See also Travelling in France Tips and General European Driving Tips
4 France Travel Tips
1. Flashing Car Lights. Be aware of the different things drivers do in different countries. Check before you go. For example a driver in France may flash his car lights meaning that he is coming through. This is totally opposite to the meaning in the UK when the flashing of lights means come forward.
2. Breath Test Kits. Drivers in France need to carry two breath test kits. If travelling from UK you can buy these as a double pack from an auto store or on the ferry if they have them.
3. Glasses. In France and some other countries it is a requirement that if you wear glasses to drive that you carry a second pair in case of loss or damage to the first.
4. Clean Air Car Stickers. This tip comes from the RAC. The French Government introduced ‘clean air’ windscreen stickers as a legal requirement for drivers. The labels are called ‘Crit’Air vignette and form a multi-category sticker system that is used to identify a vehicle’s emission levels.
A sticker costs approximately 4.50 euros (about £4.20) including postage. You need to display it on your windscreen to be able to drive and park in restricted traffic zone areas, such as permanent low-emissions zones and emergency low emission zones. On-the-spot fines can be imposed for those that fail to display.
Car stickers for France can be obtained at https://www.certificat-air.gouv.fr/
This is the official Government site and you will need a legible photo or scan of your registration certificate.
3 General European Driving Tips
1. Towing. In most of Europe you cannot have your broken down vehicle towed by another vehicle. It has to be taken to a garage by a breakdown truck on a low loader. If two vehicles are travelling together on a joint holiday don´t be tempted to tow the other if a breakdown occurs.
2. Roundabouts. Make sure you know how to negotiate roundabouts in each of the countries you are going to visit. How to approach them, how to go around them and how to leave them. If travelling from UK into Europe they are different in some countries.
3. Fan Heater. If you are travelling by car through Europe or anywhere in autumn, winter or spring, even in hot countries, keep in mind that when staying rural that many of the bedrooms have no heating. Consider taking a portable fan heater with you.
2 Canada Travel Tips
1. No Joke Canada – Same as USA. Do not under any circumstances try to joke with Customs or Immigration Officers. What may seem funny to you is unlikely to be funny to them. They have a serious job which they take seriously in an endeavour to protect borders and people.
2. Don´t Over Do It. Canada is vast. Don´t try to do too much or drive long distances in short periods of time. It is better to concentrate on one area for your holiday. To put this into perspective. It is quicker to fly from Toronto to Europe than it is from East to West of Canada.
United States Travel Tips
1. No Joke United States – Same as Canada. Do not under any circumstances try to joke with Customs or Immigration Officers. What may seem funny to you is unlikely to be funny to them. They have a serious job which they take seriously in an endeavour to protect borders and people.
5 Ferry Travel Tips
1. Ship Safety. Don´t be complacent or a know it all. Make sure you attend, see and take note of the safety briefing given by the crew either on board ship or on an airplane. They do it for your safety. Don´t think it could not happen to you!
See True Story.
2. Diversions. Make sure you and your car are prepared for the unexpected. This could be anywhere but for example if travelling on a ferry from UK to Spain are you prepared to be diverted to France in an emergency? Are you all set up and prepared to drive in France and comply with French law?3
3. Computer Security. Make sure you code lock your computer and lock anything of value. If you have a car and an emergency arises on board the ferry where you need to leave you will be required to handover your car keys.
4. On Board Ticketed Seating. If travelling in ticketed seated accommodation choose your seating wisely. For example you may have people who can´t sleep walking up and down near you. If near windows you may have people looking in. Consider the light from the windows. Will it wake you up or keep you awake if trying to sleep. Remember also you can ´t choose your companions when travelling in ticketed seating areas.
5. Shoulder Bag. When on board a ferry and whatever sex you are always carry or have access to a small bag with you. It is essential that it has a strap that can be put over your shoulder and across your body. When not using the strap you can always fold it inside the bag. Your bag should be small, but big enough to carry mobile/cell phone, your charger, documents and any medicines you need to take. The reason for this tip is that if conscious and you need to be extracted at sea you will need both hands free to climb down rope netting or airlifted by helicopter.
2 Travelling by Bicycle
These are two great cycling tips often overlooked by cyclists. They came from a good friend of mine, mature, very experienced in cycling and someone who has won many medals and prizes. He has experience and seen what he speaks of. They apply especially if say carrying bikes with you on the back of cars or motor homes.
1. Cycling & Physical Strength. Make sure you know your body. How much you can do. If you decide to go on a cycling trip or adventure remember that you have to get back. Make sure that you have the strength and ability to get back.
2. Cycling Route. The second tip was that if going to a new area make sure that you know the route back. Remember the way you came.
4 Disabled Travel Tips
1. Mobile Scooter. If you intend taking your Mobile Scooter on a holiday flight make sure that you have all the details. The airline will need to know size, weight, make, type and whether battery powered or not. Make sure you have any safety certificates and take or have someone take a photo including one of the serial numbers.
2. Disability Research. Do your research before travelling as to suitability of the country or place you are visiting. For example some countries and towns allow or condone parking on pavements. This obviously makes it extremely difficult for wheelchair users.
3. Disabled Package Holidays. Rather than trying to do it alone or as a family alone consider a holiday package vacation. Select a company that has experience with the disabled. It does not have to be a company where everyone on the trip is disabled. Just a company with experience of the disabled so that you know you will be treated with consideration and respect.
4. Insurance & Mobile Scooter. Make sure that you are allowed to use the Mobile Scooter in the country you are visiting and that you have insurance cover.
3 Train Travel Tips
1. Cross Border Trains. Remember that when crossing borders by train that very often you have to go through customs and immigration of the country you are going to at the point of departure. Example of this would be travelling from Vancouver to Seattle by train you go through United States Customs and Immigration in Vancouver before boarding.
2. Train Fares. Many railway companies have discounted fares for students, seniors or time of travel. If you don´t see it advertised then ask. Keep in mind the times for onward connections. It is not cheap to find that you have to book into a hotel for the night because there is no onward connection.
3. Train Operations. Try and stay aware of train operations. It is not unknown in some country areas for engineering work being carried out on the line and a replacement bus service. However you can arrive at the station and there is absolutely nothing to tell you about the engineering works and bus service. Another instance that just cannot be pre-planned is of early morning rural trains being cancelled last minute. The reason given was that the taxi did not turn up to collect the train driver. This might be an issue if you are going to an airport for a flight.
2 Holiday Photo Tips
1. Holiday Photos. Power Of Three. For best results always divide you screen into three. Decide where you want your main subject or main part of your view and fit everything else around it.
2. Photos At Dawn. A great time to take photos is early morning. If you can get up early to see the dawn you can capture some dramatic moments. Some are stunning. You and the world together!
Useless Travel Insurance
This applies to UK but can apply to any country.
Extended Vacation Insurance. If going on holiday abroad and decide to extend your holiday and also extend your travel insurance policy be aware that if it is classed as a new policy that it is likely to be a complete waste of money and you will not be insured. This is because of a little known clause in most policies that the holiday must start and end in UK. If you are already abroad when it starts you are not covered.
An example of this could be a family going abroad and a young son or daughter deciding to stay longer or travel further. Well meaning parents may extend the travel insurance for the son or daughter which starts as a new policy. As the son or daughter are already abroad they will not be insured unless agreed by the insurance company. If so get it in writing.
Be aware that there are specialist travel insurance companies who will cover you for extended travel whilst already abroad. However you will not find them on travel insurance comparison websites where most people buy their travel insurance
Under 18 Travellers
Under 18 Travellers. Be prepared. This actually happened. A friend of ours in her 80’s and living in an EU country has a UK 17 year old granddaughter (GD). GD asked if she could bring a 16 year old girlfriend to stay (2022). Both arrive and depart no issues. Grandma arranged taxi pickup from the airport.
One year later. GD who is 18 by now asks if she can bring same friend plus two other 18 year old girlfriends. Amazingly Grandma says yes. This is when things started to change.
GD arrives. Two days later the three girls are to arrive on a late flight. Grandma arranges taxi and goes to bed. Later Grandma is awoken sometime past midnight by 18 year daughter talking frantically on the phone.
All three girls had been stopped at immigration and taken to an interview detention room. GD’s friend, who she came with last year, is 18 later in the month. She is 26 days short of her 18th birthday.
The two 18 year olds were not allowed to leave until calls had been made to the 17 year old parents and Grandma to establish that the 17 year old was authorized to travel and had somewhere to stay. Luckily they got the girls parents in.
Carrying a letter of authority to travel may have prevented this situation.
Turkey Now Called Türkiye
This tip came from Rick in Scarborough UK.
Rick says that if ´In Istanbul definitely visit the Basilica Cisterns. A hidden gem.´ Sounds like a great place to put on your list.
Mobile/Cell Phones & Ferries
Ferries & Phones. If travelling on a ferry consider turning off your phone or at least not using it.
The reason for this is that once out of land based signal your phone can without you knowing it link into satellite. This is then termed a ´Terrestrial´ signal which may not be included in your phone plan or outside of your pay as you go normal allotted pre-paid money. Rates are much higher and can eat into costs dramatically.
3 Spain Travel Tips
1. Hot and Cold Spain. Don´t be fooled into thinking that everywhere in Spain is warm and hot. It can be cold. Very cold. Do your research and take appropriate clothing.
2. Spanish Dining Hours. If you are new to Spain keep in mind that evening meals start late. Most restaurants will open at nine pm. Some at 8 and some hotel restaurants at 7. Shops stay open later and it is not unknown for some families to be having their main evening meal at midnight. Consider having your main meal at lunchtime which is generally anywhere from 12 noon to 4pm. Also keep this in mind if you are to stay with Spanish friends or work for a working Spanish family say as a Nanny looking after their children.
3. Warning Light. If in a vehicle in Spain and broken down at the side of the road it is O.K. to use a warning light to replace one of the triangles. Check the current law on this before you travel. Also see the law in Portugal which is different.
Portugal Travel Tips
1. Warning Light. If in a vehicle in Portugal and broken down at the side of the road it is O.K. to use a warning light. However it must be used in addition to the two triangles. It also cannot be white as it might confuse drivers at night and cannot be blue for obvious reasons. Check the current law on this before you travel. Also see the law in Spain which is different.
1 Start Positive
2 Weather
3 Check Itinerary
4 Pack Light
5 Flexible Clothing
6 Baggage Fees
7 Weight
8 PrePay Luggage
9 Half Pack
10 Suitcase Labels
11 Packing A Suitcase
12 Slippers
13 Learn From A List
14 Season
15 Alerts
16 Baggage
17 Meals
18 Things To Do
19 Money Exchange
20 Check What Is Included
21 Public Transport
22 Write Down The Place You Are Staying
23 Language
24 Valuables
25 Documents
26 Have The Right Attitude
27 What If’s
28 Self Planning A Big Trip
29 Take Your Own Water Bottle
30 Spare Passport Photos
31 Toilet Roll
32 Backpacking Trial and Test
33 Clothes
34 First Aid
35 Europe Health
36 Free Health Cards
37 Places To Eat
38 Places Of Interest
39 Memory Cards
40 Stock Of Toiletries
41 Historic Centre Dress Code
42 Packing Shoes
43 Passports
44 Smokers. Vaping and E-Cigarettes
45 Non Smokers
46 Hotel Security
47 Travel Club
48 Rental Details
49 Reviews
50 Distance From Attractions
51 Rental Rules
52 Complain At The Time
54 Check Out Procedure
55 Private Rental
56 Rental Property Owner
57 Utilities Private Renting
58 Balcony Veranda Faces Which Way
59 Key Card
60 Keep Your Key Card
61 No Bottle Opener In Your Room
62 Earplugs and Eye Mask
63 Get Into A Routine
64 Secure Your Luggage
65 Type Of Combination Lock
66 Luggage & Bicycle Cable Lock
67 Waterproof Bag
68 Credit Debit Cards
69 Replacement Cards
70 Digital Credit & Debit Cards
71 Card Protection
72 Cruise Expectations
73 Port Departure
74 Car Parking
75 Your Cruise
76 Packing
77 Videos
78 Carry On Bag
79 Explore The Ship
80 Sign Up
81 Relax
82 Contact Information
83 Mobile/Cell
84 Tipping
85 Excursions
86 Advance Research
87 Dining On Board
88 Save Money
89 Self Exploring
90 Physical Effort
91 Daily Itineraries
92 Sunset
93 Night Excursions
94 Plug Converters
95 Celebration
96 Best Cabins
97 Chef ‘s Table
98 Room Service
99 Wine Packages
100 Boarding Day
101 Restaurant Bottle
102 School Holidays
103 Try Something New
104 Wander With A Drink
105 Cabin Light
106 Water Bottle
107 Toppers
108 Food Limits
109 Join A Travel Club
110 Helping Your Child
111 Comfortable Shoes
112 Brace Position
113 Where To Sit
114 Turbulence
115 Extreme Severe Turbulence
116 Alcoholic Drinks
117 Overhead Lockers
118 Motorhome Caravan Measurements
119 Gas Bottle
120 Rent A Motorhome
121 Right Frame Of Mind
122 Ask Others
123 Compatible
124 How Big
125 Running Costs
126 Wild Camping
127 Exercise
128 Bright Clothes
129 Golf Hire
130 Golf Club Deposit
131 Golf Societies
132 Good Cheap Golf Clubs
133 Golf Hotel Packages
134 Golf Course Packages
135 Ask Your Vet
136 Doggy List
137 Pet Photo
138 Pet Passports
139 Vaccination Rabies
140 Pet Entry Into UK
141 Muzzle
142 Car Security
143 RFID Protection
144 Car Hire
145 Flashing Car Lights
146 Breath Test Kits
147 Glasses
148 Clean Air Car Stickers
149 Towing
150 Roundabouts
151 Fan Heater
152 No Joke Canada
153 Don’t Over Do It
154 No Joke USA
155 Ship Safety
156 Diversions
157 Computer Security
158 On Board Ticketed Seating
159 Shoulder Bag
160 Cycling & Physical Strength
161 Cycling Route
162 Mobile Scooter
163 Disability Research
164 Disabled Package Holidays
165 Insurance & Mobile Scooter
166 Cross Border Trains
167 Train Fares
168 Train Operations
169 Holiday Photos
170 Photos At Dawn
171 Extended Vacation Insurance
172 Under 18 Travellers
173 Basilica Cisterns
174 Ferries & Phones
175 Hot & Cold Spain
176 Spanish Dining Hours
177 Warning Light Spain
178 Warning Light Portugal
Responsibility. All travel tips are for information and guidance only to help the reader when travelling. It is not legal advice and each individual has responsibility for their own actions
Answer to:- What is the record for the world´s longest passenger railway train?
To celebrate 175 years of Swiss railways the Swiss Railway Operator Rhaetian on the 30th October 2022 set a world record for the longest passenger train.
With 100 carriages and 1.9km (1.2 mile) train long it travelled the Albula-Bernina route fro Preda to Bergun.
In 2008 this spectacular 25km (15.5 mile) route through the Alps became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It spirals the mountains and passes through 22 tunnels and crosses 48 bridges including the crossing of the curved Landwasser Viaduct.
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Meaning of the word TRAVEL
According to Wikipedia the term “travel” may originate from the Old French word travail, which means ‘work’.
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