Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about 8 Common Travel Mistakes to Avoid.
There are many travel mistakes we can all make when going on holiday or taking a work trip. Most are minor inconveniences, but others can be costly or even dangerous. From the perils of public access points to leaving tourist areas, here are some to watch out for with modern travel.
8 Common Travel Mistakes to Avoid
Travel can be exhilarating, but even seasoned travellers make avoidable mistakes that can lead to unnecessary stress. Here are 8 common travel pitfalls to steer clear of, so you can enjoy a smoother, safer journey.
1. Taking a Chance with Parking
Parking is often worse than you imagine it would be, and it’s easy to overlook airport parking when focusing on flights, hotels, and itineraries. However, not planning for airport parking can lead to limited availability and higher fees—and even unavailability. Pre-booking not only guarantees a spot but can also save you money with early-bird rates.
For example, parking at Manchester Airport or any other large terminal is much easier when you plan ahead and book a space. Without this, your experience can get off to a bad start and your trip could be ruined before it begins.
Pro Tip : Book your airport parking at the same time you book your flight.
2. Using Public Charging
Having a fully charged phone is like waking up to birdsong on a sunny day! Of course, we are only human, and we can forget to charge our phones. It can be tempting to use a public charging point. However, public USB charging points can be compromised by hackers.
This means you risk having personal and sensitive data accessed or stolen from your phone. Only use a public charging point as a last resort, and instead, bring pre-charged data banks in your travel luggage.
Pro Tip: Always carry your own portable charger or a USB cable to plug into a power outlet instead of using public USB ports.
3. Travel Mistakes Includes Public Wi-Fi
Similar to public charging, public Wi-Fi is potentially very unsafe. While it is generally considered OK for general web access, never do anything personal when using public Wi-Fi. According to a recent survey, 25% of Americans have lost private data on public Wi-Fi systems.
If you do access public Wi-Fi, always use a VPN. This will potentially protect any sensitive data from being intercepted by hackers and prevent looming tech trouble when you travel the world.
Pro Tip : Always use a virtual private network (VPN) when connecting to public Wi-Fi. It encrypts your data, providing a crucial layer of security that keeps hackers out.
4. Visiting Non-Tourist Areas without Taking Precautions
Unfortunately, there isn’t a place on the planet untouched by crime. As a tourist, you are a prime target for people looking to take advantage or worse. Trying not to look like a tourist is one way to get around this. But this is hard when you are in an unfamiliar place.
A little research goes a long way when travelling. You can always check your destination to learn the places to avoid as a tourist. Going off the beaten track in an unfamiliar place can place you in a lot of potential danger.
Stick to areas that are known for being safe and consult locals or reliable sources before heading into remote areas.
Pro Tip: Before you go, read recent reviews or travel forums to get insights on any non-tourist areas you’re considering. Knowledge from recent travellers can highlight areas that might be currently unsafe or difficult to navigate.
5. Overpacking
One of the most common mistakes, especially for longer trips, is bringing too much. Overpacking leads to heavy luggage fees, limits your mobility, and often means you’ll end up with items you won’t use. Bringing only essentials allows for a more flexible and enjoyable journey.
Pro Tip: Pack versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched, and use packing cubes to stay organized. This way, you’ll only bring what you need, without the burden of a heavy suitcase.
6. Ignoring Currency Exchange Rates
Currency exchange can quickly become costly if not managed wisely. Avoid exchanging large sums at the airport, where rates are usually poor, and be mindful of foreign transaction fees on your credit cards. Little oversights here can add up over the course of a trip.
Pro Tip: Look up the local currency exchange rates ahead of time, and consider using a credit card with no foreign transaction fees. Additionally, withdraw cash from local ATMs for a better exchange rate, but be aware of any applicable bank fees.
7. Keeping Valuables in a Suitcase
There are a few valuables you will take with you when travelling, and they can be a target for thieves. These include electronics like your phone. But also things like your passport and cash or credit cards. You will potentially prevent these from being stolen by having them on your person.
Valuables like electronics, jewelry, and important documents should always be kept in your carry-on. However, sneaky thieves are excellent at taking things from bags without being seen, so it’s best to keep credit cards, cash and phones in an inside pocket, where it is almost impossible for someone to steal them from you.
Pro Tip: Consider using a small travel-safe pouch in your carry-on for valuables.
8. Skipping Travel Insurance
Many people skip travel insurance, assuming it’s an unnecessary expense. However, travel insurance can save you money in the long run by covering unexpected medical expenses, flight cancellations, lost luggage, or emergency evacuations. Without it, a single mishap could lead to significant out-of-pocket costs.
Pro Tip: Choose a comprehensive travel insurance plan that matches your destination’s risks and your planned activities. Some credit cards also offer travel insurance benefits, so check before you book.
Final Thoughts on
8 Common Travel Mistakes to Avoid
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be better prepared to enjoy a safe, stress-free, and memorable travel experience.
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