Most of us have just returned from our travels, but is it ever too early to plan out the next holiday? The CIROS Trips Committee understands this wanderlust better than most, so they have gathered some tips to help you on your next journey. Keep these in your back pocket for that ideal spring or summer vacation.
1. Make use of the night trains when travelling in Europe
Spare yourself a night in a hostel and travel with a night train, if possible. It is a sustainable way of travelling and is also more affordable than booking a flight! Once you reach your destination in the morning, just rent a luggage locker and start exploring your destination. This method of getting from point A to point B is becoming more accessible as railway companies have noticed their increased popularity and began offering nighttime travel in response.
2. Always have emergency funds
A rule I stand by when traveling is to always have enough money for a plane ticket home. Of course, budget traveling and backpacking should be wallet-friendly, but things can arise out of the blue with a steep cost. It is better to be safe than sorry and expect the unexpected with some backup resources.
3. Always read the small print
This is especially important when securing your accommodation and mode of transportation. Hostels, airlines, and railway companies like to hide crucial details in the fine print, especially if you manage to secure their services at a cheap price. It never hurts to know whether or not you can cancel your ticket, how much compensation you get in case of a delay, and what is actually included in the price. Believe me, this can save you from numerous ugly surprises.
4. Do not be afraid to ask questions
In this digital age, it is so easy to hear about other people’s travel experiences online. Travel bloggers and vloggers are everywhere, and there is a lot that we can learn from them. They can give you a deep dive into certain destinations, or explain the nitty-gritty of a mode of travel. Still have some unanswered questions? Just reach out to these travel experts directly! From what I have experienced, they love sharing more about their adventures, thus giving you entertaining conversations, coupled with some valuable tips.
5. Let someone track your location
This tip is especially handy for solo travellers. It might seem excessive at first glance, but having someone know where you are in the world will bring you immense comfort. If your family and friends can check your whereabouts from time to time, they will immediately know if you need assistance, and where they can reach you. Even when traveling in a group, sharing your location can be helpful, as you can always find each other no matter the circumstances. Nowadays, there are tons of apps that let you share your location, like Find360 and GeoZilla; just pick the one that is right for you.
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